Writing Cheat Sheets
(Score CLB 9+)
Quick-reference structural grids and full sample answers you can memorize and deploy on test day to ensure perfect paragraphing and tone.
Task 1: Writing an Email
The golden 5-paragraph structure.
Dear [Name], I am writing to...
Address the first prompt point.
Address the second prompt point.
Address the third prompt point.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Complaint to Manager
You bought a laptop and it broke immediately. The store refused a refund. Write to the manager.
Dear Store Manager,
I am writing to formally express my extreme frustration regarding a recent purchase made at your downtown location, and the subsequent terrible customer service I received.
Last Monday, I purchased a brand new Apex Pro laptop for $1,200. I needed this device urgently for my remote work. However, upon opening the box at home, the screen was completely shattered and the device would not power on.
I immediately returned to the store the following morning. Shockingly, the customer service representative accused me of dropping the laptop and flatly refused to process a refund or an exchange, despite me having the receipt and original packaging.
Given your company's reputation, this treatment is completely unacceptable. I expect you to investigate this employee's conduct and issue a full refund to my credit card immediately.
I look forward to your prompt response.
Sincerely,
John Doe
Invitation to Friend
You are throwing a surprise birthday party for your brother. Write to your friend inviting them.
Hi Sarah,
I hope you've been doing well! It feels like forever since we last caught up. I am writing to let you know that I am organizing a massive surprise birthday party for my brother, David, next weekend.
Since he is turning 30, I decided to rent out the back patio at The Rusty Anchor pub downtown. The party will be on Saturday, the 15th, starting exactly at 7:00 PM. We have a live band and fully catered food!
I would absolutely love it if you could make it. You and David have been friends since college, and I know he would be thrilled to see you there. Plus, it will give us a great chance to hang out.
Please let me know if you can make it by this Wednesday so I can finalize the food order with the venue. Remember, it's a secret!
Hope to see you there,
Cheers,
John
Task 2: Survey Response
The 4-paragraph persuasive structure.
While both have merit, I strongly support...
First and foremost, [Main Reason].
I understand why some like Option B, but...
Ultimately, I firmly believe...
Funding Parks vs Public Transit
The city has a budget surplus. Option A: Build more parks. Option B: Improve public transit.
While both proposals are excellent investments for the community, I strongly support the initiative to allocate the budget surplus toward improving the city's public transit system rather than building more parks.
First and foremost, upgrading the public transit infrastructure is a critical necessity for the working population. Currently, the bus routes are incredibly unreliable, which causes thousands of residents to be late for work daily. By purchasing new buses and expanding the subway lines, the city will significantly boost economic productivity and reduce commute-related stress.
I certainly understand why many residents prefer building more parks, as green spaces improve mental health and provide recreational areas for families. However, our city already boasts over thirty well-maintained parks. Adding more green space is a luxury, whereas fixing a broken transportation system is an urgent priority.
Ultimately, a reliable public transit system benefits everyone—from students to corporate professionals—by making the city more accessible and reducing traffic congestion. For these reasons, I firmly believe the council must prioritize transit funding.