Cambridgewriting

Writing Task Choice

Choose from multiple writing tasks (letter, report, review, article, email). Tests appropriate register and format.

40-45 minutes
B2 First (FCE), C1 Advanced (CAE), C2 Proficiency (CPE)

What is this question type?

Writing choice tasks test your ability to write in different formats and registers, adapting your style to suit the purpose, audience, and text type.

Winning Strategy

  1. 1

    Read all options and choose the task you're most confident with

  2. 2

    Identify the purpose, audience, and required format

  3. 3

    Use appropriate register (formal/informal)

  4. 4

    Include all required content points

  5. 5

    Use conventions appropriate to the text type

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Choosing a task without reading it carefully

  • Using wrong register for the text type

  • Missing required content points

  • Not following text type conventions

  • Generic content that doesn't address the specific task

Tips for Success

  • Know the conventions for each text type (letters, reports, reviews)

  • Practice identifying formal vs informal register

  • Learn appropriate opening and closing phrases

  • Make your writing engaging and relevant

  • Check you've included all points from the task

Frequently Asked Questions

Which task type is easiest?
Choose what you've practiced most. Informal emails/letters are often more natural for many students.
How do I know which register to use?
Look at who you're writing to. A friend = informal. A manager or unknown person = formal.
What if I don't finish?
An incomplete but well-written response can still score well. Focus on quality over quantity.

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Related Guides

Cambridge

Essay Writing

Write a structured essay on a given topic. Tests organization, argument development, and language range.

Writing Task Choice - Complete Study Guide for Cambridge English Qualifications

Writing choice tasks test your ability to write in different formats and registers, adapting your style to suit the purpose, audience, and text type.

Step-by-Step Strategy

  1. Read all options and choose the task you're most confident with
  2. Identify the purpose, audience, and required format
  3. Use appropriate register (formal/informal)
  4. Include all required content points
  5. Use conventions appropriate to the text type

Avoid These Mistakes

  • Choosing a task without reading it carefully
  • Using wrong register for the text type
  • Missing required content points
  • Not following text type conventions
  • Generic content that doesn't address the specific task

Expert Tips

  • Know the conventions for each text type (letters, reports, reviews)
  • Practice identifying formal vs informal register
  • Learn appropriate opening and closing phrases
  • Make your writing engaging and relevant
  • Check you've included all points from the task

Frequently Asked Questions

Which task type is easiest?

Choose what you've practiced most. Informal emails/letters are often more natural for many students.

How do I know which register to use?

Look at who you're writing to. A friend = informal. A manager or unknown person = formal.

What if I don't finish?

An incomplete but well-written response can still score well. Focus on quality over quantity.

Available in: B2 First (FCE), C1 Advanced (CAE), C2 Proficiency (CPE)

Time allowed: 40-45 minutes