CELPIP Writing Task 1 Email — Complete Guide with Examples 2026
Master CELPIP Writing Task 1 with real examples, templates, and scoring tips. Formal & informal emails covered with CLB 9+ phrases.
What Exactly Is CELPIP Writing Task 1?
Writing Task 1 gives you 27 minutes to write an email of 150-200 words. You receive a scenario describing a situation and 3-4 bullet points that your email must address. The email is either formal (to a manager, company, landlord, or official) or informal (to a friend, family member, or close collea...
Formal Email: Example and Breakdown
Scenario: You recently purchased a laptop online, and it arrived damaged. Write a formal email to the company's customer service department. In your email: • Describe the damage • Explain how this has affected you • State what you want the company to do Example response: Subject: Damaged Laptop — ...
Informal Email: Example and Breakdown
Scenario: Your friend recently moved to a new city and is feeling homesick. Write an email to your friend. In your email: • Show sympathy for their situation • Share a suggestion to help them feel better • Invite them to visit you soon Example response: Hey Priya! I've been thinking about you a l...
5 Scoring Secrets for CLB 9+ Emails
1. Match tone precisely: Don't just be 'formal' or 'informal' — calibrate within those categories. An email to your CEO is more formal than one to your direct manager. An email to your best friend is more casual than one to a cousin you rarely see. Read the prompt carefully for relationship cues. 2...
Power Phrases for Formal Emails
Opening phrases: • 'I am writing to express my concern regarding...' • 'I wish to formally request...' • 'I am writing in response to...' • 'I would like to bring to your attention...' Body phrases: • 'This has resulted in significant inconvenience...' • 'I would be most grateful if you could...' •...
Power Phrases for Informal Emails
Opening phrases: • 'It was so great to hear from you!' • 'I've been meaning to write to you about...' • 'You won't believe what happened!' • 'Hope everything's going well on your end!' Body phrases: • 'I totally know how you feel — when I was in the same situation...' • 'Here's what I think you sho...
Common Mistakes That Drop Your Score
1. Wrong format: Forgetting the greeting ('Dear...' or 'Hi...') or sign-off ('Sincerely' or 'Talk soon'). Always include both — they are part of the email format and omitting them costs points. 2. Mixing tones: Starting formal and drifting informal mid-email (or vice versa). Maintain consistent ton...
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