The CELPIP Writing Test evaluates how well you can communicate in written English in everyday situations. Unlike academic writing tests, CELPIP is designed for practical communication, like emails and opinions—just like you’d use in work or community life in Canada. The test has two writing tasks:
- Writing an Email
- Responding to a Survey Question
Here are strategic, practical tips to help you score higher on both tasks.
1. Understand the Scoring Criteria
CELPIP uses four main criteria to evaluate your writing:
- Content/Coherence: Is your message clear and relevant?
- Vocabulary: Do you use a range of words accurately?
- Readability: Is your writing organized and easy to read?
- Grammar and Sentence Structure: Are you using correct grammar and varied sentences?
Focusing on these four pillars during practice will help ensure your responses hit the mark.
2. Master the Email Format
The first writing task always involves writing an email in response to a situation. You might have to make a request, provide information, or explain a problem. Here’s a quick structure:
- Greeting: “Dear Mr./Ms./To Whom It May Concern”
- Opening sentence: Clearly state your purpose (e.g., “I am writing to request…”)
- Body Paragraphs: Provide background, details, and specific examples
- Polite closing: “I look forward to your response” / “Thank you for your time”
- Sign-off: “Sincerely, [Your Name]”
Always maintain a formal or semi-formal tone unless told otherwise.
3. Take a Position in Task 2
In the second task, you’re asked to choose between two options or share an opinion on a topic. The key here is to:
- Choose ONE side
- Support it with reasons
- Avoid fence-sitting
Example Structure:
- Introduction: State your choice clearly
- Body Paragraph 1: Reason 1 + Example
- Body Paragraph 2: Reason 2 + Example
- Conclusion: Summarize and reinforce your opinion
Don’t overcomplicate. You’re not graded on how “correct” your opinion is—just how clearly and logically you communicate it.
4. Expand Your Vocabulary Without Overdoing It
The right vocabulary shows that you’re confident and fluent. Use precise, everyday words, but avoid unnecessary complexity. Instead of “I am cognizant of,” say “I understand.” Your goal is clarity, not impressing the examiner with big words.
Use transitions like:
- Firstly, secondly, in addition, moreover, however, as a result, in conclusion.
These help your writing flow and show logical organization.
5. Watch Your Tone and Style
Keep your tone appropriate to the context:
- For professional or formal emails, avoid contractions (use “I am” not “I’m”) and slang.
- For survey responses, you can use a more personal tone, but still avoid overly casual expressions.
Always sound respectful, even if you’re making a complaint or stating a strong opinion.
6. Mind the Word Count
Each task has a word limit of 150–200 words. Writing under 150 words may result in a lower score, while writing over 200 could be penalized if you go off-topic. Use this as your checklist:
- Have I clearly answered the question?
- Do I have an introduction, body, and conclusion?
- Have I included at least two solid supporting points?
7. Use Simple, Clear Sentences
Variety in sentence structure is good, but don’t try to be fancy. A mix of short and medium-length sentences improves clarity and readability. For example:
Due to the ongoing circumstances that were unforeseen and highly unpredictable, I would like to suggest that we possibly reconsider our previously agreed-upon schedule.
Because of unexpected issues, I suggest we reconsider our schedule.
8. Edit Before You Submit
Leave 2–3 minutes at the end to quickly check for:
- Spelling mistakes
- Grammar errors (especially verb tenses)
- Missing words or awkward phrasing
- Run-on sentences
Even small edits can raise your score by a full band.
9. Practice with Real Topics
Use sample prompts from CELPIP’s website, or practice with realistic topics like:
- “Your manager has asked you to work overtime. Write an email to decline politely.”
- “Some people think students should wear uniforms. Do you agree or disagree?”
Practice under timed conditions—27 minutes for Task 1 and 26 minutes for Task 2.
Final Thoughts
The CELPIP Writing test isn’t about sounding like a professor—it’s about being clear, organized, and appropriate. Your ability to structure your thoughts, choose the right tone, and support your ideas with simple examples is what makes you stand out.
Focus on clarity over complexity. The more you practice real-world writing scenarios, the more natural it will feel. With the tips above, you’ll not only write better—you’ll write with purpose and confidence.
