Writing Task 1: the email
By Michael Ukwuma
A simple structure for emails that cover the task and sound natural.
Know your reader
In Task 1 you write an email to a specific person, such as a manager, a neighbour or a store owner. Choose your tone to match. Use a polite and formal tone for a manager or a company, and a friendlier tone for a neighbour. Using the wrong tone is a common reason for lost marks.
A four part structure
Begin with a greeting and one sentence that states your purpose. In the next paragraph, give the details of the problem or situation. In the third paragraph, explain how it affects you or why it matters. Finish with a clear request or suggestion, and a polite closing.
Cover every part of the task
The instruction usually has three parts, for example explain the problem, describe the effect and suggest a solution. Underline each part and make sure your email has a paragraph or at least a clear sentence for each one. Missing a part lowers your task fulfilment score.
Length and time
Aim for around 150 to 200 words. Spend about three minutes planning, twenty minutes writing and the last four minutes checking. Planning first makes the writing faster and clearer.
Key points
- Match the tone to the reader.
- Use four clear parts.
- Cover every part of the instruction.