TOEFLwriting

TOEFL Write an Email

Write a short email of about 50+ words in response to a prompt, covering all required points.

10 minutes
TOEFL iBT (Score 0-30)

What is this question type?

This task tests your ability to write a clear, appropriate email in response to a given situation. You must address all the points in the prompt, use an appropriate register (formal or informal depending on the recipient), and organise your message logically. It assesses practical written communication skills.

Winning Strategy

  1. 1

    Read the prompt carefully and note all the points you must address in your email

  2. 2

    Determine the appropriate tone — is this to a friend, a colleague, or a professor?

  3. 3

    Start with an appropriate greeting and clearly state the purpose of your email

  4. 4

    Address each required point in a logical order, using clear paragraph breaks

  5. 5

    End with an appropriate closing and sign-off that matches the register

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Missing one of the required points — check the prompt again before submitting

  • Using overly formal language for an informal email or vice versa

  • Writing too little — make sure you develop each point adequately

  • Not organising the email logically — jumping between topics

  • Forgetting basic email conventions: greeting, sign-off, clear subject reference

Tips for Success

  • Learn standard email phrases for different levels of formality

  • Practice writing emails for various scenarios: requesting information, making plans, apologising

  • Keep sentences clear and concise — emails should be direct

  • Use linking words to connect your points smoothly: regarding, in addition, meanwhile

  • Proofread for grammar and spelling — errors are more noticeable in short texts

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should the email be?
You should write at least 50 words, but aim for 80-120 words to adequately address all required points.
Does the register matter?
Yes, using the right level of formality for the situation is important. Read the prompt carefully to understand the context.
Do I need a subject line?
Follow the prompt instructions. Generally you just need the body of the email with an appropriate greeting and sign-off.

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TOEFL Write an Email - Complete Study Guide for Test of English as a Foreign Language

This task tests your ability to write a clear, appropriate email in response to a given situation. You must address all the points in the prompt, use an appropriate register (formal or informal depending on the recipient), and organise your message logically. It assesses practical written communication skills.

Step-by-Step Strategy

  1. Read the prompt carefully and note all the points you must address in your email
  2. Determine the appropriate tone — is this to a friend, a colleague, or a professor?
  3. Start with an appropriate greeting and clearly state the purpose of your email
  4. Address each required point in a logical order, using clear paragraph breaks
  5. End with an appropriate closing and sign-off that matches the register

Avoid These Mistakes

  • Missing one of the required points — check the prompt again before submitting
  • Using overly formal language for an informal email or vice versa
  • Writing too little — make sure you develop each point adequately
  • Not organising the email logically — jumping between topics
  • Forgetting basic email conventions: greeting, sign-off, clear subject reference

Expert Tips

  • Learn standard email phrases for different levels of formality
  • Practice writing emails for various scenarios: requesting information, making plans, apologising
  • Keep sentences clear and concise — emails should be direct
  • Use linking words to connect your points smoothly: regarding, in addition, meanwhile
  • Proofread for grammar and spelling — errors are more noticeable in short texts

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should the email be?

You should write at least 50 words, but aim for 80-120 words to adequately address all required points.

Does the register matter?

Yes, using the right level of formality for the situation is important. Read the prompt carefully to understand the context.

Do I need a subject line?

Follow the prompt instructions. Generally you just need the body of the email with an appropriate greeting and sign-off.

Available in: TOEFL iBT (Score 0-30)

Time allowed: 10 minutes