Email Writing (B1 Preliminary): How to Do It, with Free Practice Tests

What is this question type?

This task tests whether you can write a clear, friendly email that answers every point you are given. In B1 Preliminary Writing Part 1, you read an email and four notes written on it. You must write a reply of about 100 words that covers all four notes. This part is compulsory. It is marked on content, communicative achievement, organisation and language.

Winning Strategy

1
Read the email and the four notes carefully. Each note is a point you must cover
2
Plan one or two sentences for each note before you write
3
Start with a greeting and a short opening line that responds to the email
4
Cover the notes in a logical order and use a new paragraph when the topic changes
5
End with a friendly closing line and a sign-off, then check your work

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Missing one of the four notes, which costs marks for content
Writing far too little or far too much
Using a tone that does not fit the person you are writing to
Copying long phrases from the question instead of using your own words
Forgetting a greeting or sign-off

Tips for Success

Learn useful phrases: "Thanks for your email", "I'd love to", "How about...?", "See you soon"
Use linking words like "because", "so", "but" and "also" to join ideas
Add a reason or detail to each point so your answer is fully developed
Use a range of tenses, such as present, past and future
Leave 3-4 minutes to check spelling, verb forms and punctuation