CELPIP Writing Task 1 Email — Complete Guide with CLB 9 Examples (2026)
Master CELPIP Writing Task 1 with full formal and informal email examples, a scoring breakdown, power phrases, and the most common mistakes that drop people from CLB 9 to CLB 7.
What Is CELPIP Writing Task 1? (And Why It Trips People Up)
Writing Task 1 gives you 27 minutes to write an email of 150–200 words. You receive a scenario and 3 bullet points that your email MUST address. The email is either formal (to a manager, landlord, company, or official) or informal (to a friend, family member, or close colleague). Scoring is based o...
The #1 score killer: missing a bullet point
Missing even one of the three bullet points can drop your Task Fulfillment score from CLB 9 to CLB 7 — regardless of how well you write everything else. Before writing a single word: read the prompt TWICE, underline each bullet point, and physically check them off as you cover them. This takes 30 se...
Formal Email: CLB 7 vs CLB 9 — Full Examples
Subject: Problem with laptop Dear Sir/Madam, I am writing about my laptop. I bought it online and it was broken when I received it. The screen had a crack. I am very unhappy about this situation. I would like a refund or a new laptop. Please respond as soon as possible. Thank you, Sarah Subject:...
Informal Email: CLB 7 vs CLB 9 — Full Examples
Hi Priya, I heard you are feeling homesick. That is sad. Moving to a new city is hard. I understand you. You should try to meet new people. Maybe join a club or something. I think it will help. Also you should come visit me sometime. It will be fun. Talk soon, Michelle Hey Priya! I've been thin...
Tone Calibration: The Full Spectrum
CELPIP examiners notice when you calibrate within formal/informal — not just between them.Email to CEO / government official Maximum formal No contractions, full titles, no first names Email to company customer service Standard formal Professional, clear, not stiff Email to your direct supervisor Wa...
Power phrases: Formal openings that signal sophistication
• "I am writing to bring to your attention a matter regarding..." • "I am writing to formally request assistance with..." • "I wish to express my concern regarding..." • "I would like to bring to your attention..." Power phrases: Formal closings • "Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter...
Pre-Submission Checklist — Run This Before You Finish
Use the last 4–5 minutes of your 27-minute window to check every item:Greeting included "Dear [Name/Team]," for formal or "Hi/Hey [Name]!" for informal All 3 bullet points covered Each one addressed with at least 2–3 sentences of detail Tone consistent throughout No formal phrases sneaking into info...
The 5-Minute Pre-Writing Plan (Use This Every Practice Session)
Read prompt twice, underline each bullet First read: understand the scenario. Second read: underline each bullet point with your cursor or mental note. Count them — are there 3? Sometimes 4. Identify tone in one word Write in the margin: FORMAL or INFORMAL. Then calibrate: is this formal-to-manager ...
Practice Now
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