CELPIP Writing Task 1: The Complete Email Guide
Master both formal and informal emails with templates, examples, and common mistakes to avoid.
Understanding Task 1
CELPIP Writing Task 1 gives you 27 minutes to write an email of 150-200 words. You'll get a prompt describing a situation and 3-4 bullet points to address. The email can be formal (to a manager, company, landlord) or informal (to a friend, family member).
Formal vs Informal: How to Tell
Read the prompt carefully. If it says 'write to your manager,' 'write to the company,' or 'write to the building management' — it's FORMAL. If it says 'write to your friend,' 'write to a family member,' or 'write to a colleague you're close to' — it's INFORMAL. The tone difference is crucial: forma...
The Perfect Formal Email Structure
1. Subject line (clear and specific) 2. 'Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name],' 3. Opening: State your purpose in one sentence 4. Body: Address each bullet point with a new paragraph or sentence 5. Closing request: 'I would appreciate your prompt attention to this matter.' 6. 'Sincerely,' + Your name
The Perfect Informal Email Structure
1. 'Hi [First name]!' or 'Hey [Name],' 2. Friendly opening: 'Hope you're doing well!' or reference something personal 3. Transition to purpose: 'I'm actually writing because...' 4. Address bullet points naturally (use 'Also,' 'By the way,' 'Oh, and...') 5. Friendly close: 'Can't wait to hear from yo...
5 Common Mistakes That Kill Your Score
1. Wrong tone — using informal language in a formal email (or vice versa) 2. Missing bullet points — you MUST address every single one 3. Too short — under 150 words signals insufficient development 4. No greeting or sign-off — always include both 5. Repetitive vocabulary — using 'good' or 'importan...
CLB 10+ Power Phrases
Formal: 'I am writing to express my concern regarding...' 'I would be most grateful if you could...' 'Please do not hesitate to contact me should you require further information.' Informal: 'I've been meaning to reach out to you about...' 'It would be absolutely amazing if you could...' 'I'd really...
Practice Now
Ready to put these tips into action? Try a free practice test: