There are many different formats of writing that can be required on the CAE.  I have made a checklist to help you remember certain stylistic points.

The writing paper is not as simple as using pretty words to make nice sentences.  There are very clear instructions for each section and you must follow all of the instructions to receive a good mark.  Below are my tips for each of the parts.

Part 1

  1. You are required to complete the task in Part 1.  You will need to write either a letter, a report, a proposal, or an article.
  2. Read the instructions carefully.  Pay careful attention to the type of writing you are asked to do and to your audience.  You will receive a very poor mark if you are asked to write a report for your principal but write an informal letter.
  3. Identify the task, usually you are required to do three things in your writing.  Make a plan before you start writing so you are certain you fully answer the question.
  4. Notice that the word limit is written in bold type, do you think this is important?  If your boss asks you for a one page proposal, he will not be pleased with a two page proposal.  Expressing your ideas completely within the word limit is an important part of getting a good mark.
  5. Notice another set of words in bold: using the information appropriately.  You must decide what information will help you make the most persuasive or informative piece of writing.  This will also allow you to expand on some of the information which will give you a higher mark than if you robotically copy the phrases from the question into your answer.
  6. Use your own words as far as possible.  This phrase is not in bold but it is still an important part of getting a good mark.  Write paraphrases next to the information on the question sheet.  This will help you avoid subconsciously using the words from the question as you write.

Part 2

  1. You have a choice of tasks in Part 2.  You will be able to choose from a wide range of subject matter and a number of different writing formats: an article, a competition entry, a contribution to a larger piece (such as a book), an information sheet, a letter, a proposal, a report or a review.
  2. Select the question you wish to answer based on your familiarity with the writing style required, your interest in the topic, and your range of vocabulary related to the topic.
  3. Read the question carefully and underline the task (usually the task will have two or three parts) and the target reader.  This will help you ensure you answer the question completely and use the correct level of formality.
  4. Make a plan before you begin writing.  This will not only improve your organization, but writing down the information will allow you to concentrate on the language.