Writing

The task at a glance

• Time: about 27 minutes.
• Length: 150–200 words.
• You read a short situation, then write an email that responds to 3 bullet points.
• Tone is set by who you're writing to: a manager/company = formal; a friend = informal.

Five-part paragraph plan

The F1 / F2 / F3 trick

Most prompts give you three bullet points to cover. Map them to F1 (context), F2 (details), and F3 (your request). If you address all three clearly, you've satisfied Task Fulfillment — the dimension that most often caps a score.

When to use this

• Asking for information or an update
• Requesting help, support, or a favour
• Requesting an appointment, refund, or replacement
• Explaining a situation and asking the recipient to act

Formal request — line by line

Informal request — line by line

Common mistakes to avoid

• Don't keep the request vague — say exactly what you want.
• Don't skip the context — F1 explains why the request matters.
• Don't mix tones (no slang in a formal email; no stiff phrasing to a friend).
• Keep it within 150–200 words.

Formal complaint — line by line

Useful phrases

• The experience fell short of my expectations.
• This caused significant inconvenience.
• I am extremely disappointed with the service I received.
• I kindly request a full refund or suitable compensation.
• I trust that you will address this matter promptly.

High-band rule

A strong complaint is firm, not rude. State the issue, give specific details, show the impact, and request a reasonable solution. Anger lowers your tone/Listenability score; specificity raises Content.

Formal apology — line by line

Tone rule

Sound responsible, sincere, and solution-focused. Avoid blaming others or over-explaining the reason — one brief context sentence is enough.

Formal gratitude — line by line

Before you submit

• Did I address all three prompt points (F1, F2, F3)?
• Is my tone consistent (formal OR informal) from greeting to sign-off?
• Is the request/purpose clear and specific?
• Am I within 150–200 words?
• Did I open with a purpose sentence and close politely?
• Did I vary sentence structure (not all short, simple sentences)?
• Did I re-read for subject–verb agreement and tense consistency?

Sample email (≈195 words)

Dear Restaurant Manager,

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to draw your attention to an issue I faced during my last visit to your restaurant.

My name is Ann Smith, and I am a regular customer at your establishment. I often visit and enjoy your special vegan burger with my friends. Unfortunately, my last visit was disappointing: although I had made a reservation a week in advance, the food was served an hour late, and I found a hair inside my burger.

Additionally, the service fell short of my expectations. When I raised the issue, the server did not apologize and instead suggested it might have been my fault. He did not offer to replace the meal, so I left without eating.

I would highly appreciate a full refund for that day and a complimentary meal on my next visit. I look forward to hearing back from you. Thank you in advance for your kind cooperation and understanding.

Best regards,
Ann Smith

Why it scores well

• Opens with a clear purpose sentence.
• F1 establishes the relationship (regular customer); F2 gives specific problems (late food, hair, poor service); F3 makes a fair, concrete request (refund + complimentary meal).
• Tone is firm but courteous — no insults.
• Stays within the word range and closes politely.

The task at a glance

• Time: about 26 minutes; length 150–200 words.
• You're given two options (A and B) and must choose one and defend it.
• Pick the option that's easier to argue, not the one you personally prefer.

Two comparison types

Four-paragraph plan

Introduction frame

Body frames

Conclusion frame

Topic categories that come up

• School / education projects
• Community planning and public spaces
• Transportation and city budgets
• Workplace policy
• Environment and public safety
• Technology and payment systems

Prompt

School project format: an individual research paper (Option A) vs a group presentation (Option B). Which do you support?

Sample response (Band 12)

The format of the upcoming school project has sparked a lively debate among my classmates. While some prefer an individual research paper, I strongly advocate for a group presentation due to its practical benefits.

First, group presentations cultivate essential teamwork and communication skills, which are invaluable in professional settings. Collaborating with peers fosters accountability, task delegation, and problem-solving abilities. For instance, if a team member fails to complete their part, the entire group must adapt, reinforcing responsibility and cooperation.

Additionally, group work promotes knowledge sharing and critical thinking. When students exchange ideas, they gain diverse perspectives and deepen their understanding of the subject. Furthermore, presenting information enhances public speaking skills, preparing students for future professional environments.

While an individual research paper allows flexibility, it lacks the interpersonal and collaborative aspects vital for career success. Engaging in group discussions and delivering presentations mimics real-world scenarios, making learning more interactive and impactful.

In conclusion, a group presentation strengthens teamwork and communication while fostering deeper learning and confidence — making it the superior choice for academic and professional growth.

What pushes it to Band 12

• Precise, varied vocabulary (cultivate, foster, delegation, interpersonal) instead of repeated simple words.
• Every reason is explained AND exemplified — not just listed.
• Smooth transitions (First, Additionally, Furthermore, While, In conclusion).
• The contrast paragraph concedes a point to Option A, then refutes it — a high-band move.
• Tight conclusion that summarizes rather than repeats.