Writing guide
Certificate in Advanced English (CAE)
Types of writing:
Essay
Informal letter or email
Formal letter or email
Proposal
Report
Review
General considerations:
This writing guide aims to help you with your writing in preparation for Paper 2 of the
Cambridge English: Advanced exam.
For each type of writing that might come up in the exam, there is an example question (Task),
a model answer and a long range of advices to enhance your writing.
Content
Remember that you have to write 220-260 words. If you write less than 200 words, you
probably haven’t answered the whole question. If you write more than 280, the examiner may
not read it and it will be a waste of valuable time.
You will lose marks if you don’t include ALL the required information.
You must explain your points clearly, providing interesting supporting ideas to defend them.
Register and style
You have to bear in mind who the reader of the text is going to be. The reader is not the
examiner themselves. The reader could be a teenager as you are writing a letter for the editor
of a newspaper or magazine or even a teacher asking you to write an essay on a particular
topic. So address always to the real reader.
You must take care too of the style. You need to know when a text should be formal, informal
o semi-formal, and work all the aspects of the writing (vocabulary, grammar, expression,
phrasal verbs, and so on) in that direction.
Organisation
You must divide your writing into paragraphs, ALWAYS LEAVING A WHITE LINE BETWEEN
THEM. It is really positive that you use indentations, as they embellish your writing at first
sight.
Each paragraph must contain one idea. However, a related idea in the same paragraph is
possible if the connection is really close.
Paragraphs must follow a logical order and must include linking words or expressions to
connect ideas between paragraphs.
Remember that in reports and proposals, as you will see later, must include appropriate
headings and sub-headings.
Language
You must include a wide range of grammatical structures (modals, conditionals, impersonal
and personal passives, inversions, and so on). In general, the grammatical structures we revise
during the course. Try to avoid simple sentences. You need to show your management in the
language and using them doesn’t help on this aim.
Use a wide range of vocabulary. Include synonyms to avoid repeating the same word again and
again, which makes the text dull and repetitive for the reader. Use specific vocabulary, don’t
use general words, such as people or thing, among others.
Use an appropriate range of linking expressions and make sure they are correctly used.
Use time expressions appropriately (when, after, as soon as…)
Make use of appropriate opening and closing phrases in an email or letter, both formal or
informal.
TRY TO MAKE YOUR HANDWRITING EASY TO READ. Be aware that the examiner has to correct
loads of writing so try to ease the process of reading and correcting. That will make the
examiner more willing to read your text.
Pay attention to punctuation and spelling. Sometimes you don’t really see the importance of a
comma for the understanding of a text. You will not automatically lose marks for poor spelling,
punctuation and handwriting, but it will affect the examiner’s general impression.
At the end, make sure you have time to check grammar mistakes, in particular the ones you
know you often make.
HOW TO WRITE AN ESSAY
What is an essay?
An essay is, generally, is usually written for an academic tutor and may be written as a follow-
up to a class activity, such as attending a seminar or watching a documentary. The main
purpose of the task is to underline relevant salient issues on the stated topic, and to support
an argument with subsidiary points and reasons. An essay should be well organised, with an
introduction, clear development and an appropriate conclusion. It should hold the target
reader’s attention and communicate complex ideas using an appropriate range of vocabulary
and structures.
Structure of an essay
The basic high school or college essay has the following standardized, four paragraph
structure:
Introduction
Paragraph 1: Introduction
1st idea
Paragraph 2: First idea
2nd idea
Paragraph 3: Second idea
Conclusion
Paragraph 4: Conclusion
Though it may seem formulaic – and, well, it is - the idea behind this structure is to make it
easier for the reader to navigate the ideas put forth in an essay. You see, if your essay has the
same structure as every other one, any reader should be able to quickly and easily find the
information most relevant to them.
How to write an essay
The introductory paragraph should include the thesis statement which is given in the task
using your own words, a kind of mini-outline for the paper: it tells the reader what the essay is
about. The last sentence of this paragraph must contain a transitional "hook" which moves the
reader from the first paragraph to the body of the paper. It can be a question, a catchy
sentence, anything that involves the reader and make them continue reading.
The first paragraph of the body should contain the strongest argument, most significant point.
The topic for this paragraph should be in the first or second sentence. Then, you must include
your arguments to support by idea using linking words.
The second paragraph of the body should contain the second strongest argument or second
most significant example. Again, the topic for this paragraph should be in the first or second
sentence, followed up by the arguments.
The concluding paragraph should include the following:
an allusion to the pattern used in the introductory paragraph
a restatement of the thesis statement, using some of the original language or language
that "echoes" the original language
a summary of the main points from the body of the paper
a final statement that gives the reader signals that the discussion has come to an end
Useful language for essays
Opening
It is often said… / Many people claim that…
In this day and age… / Nowadays… / These days…
We live in an age when many of us use…
… is a hotly-debated topic that often divides opinion.
… is often discussed yet rarely understood.
It goes without saying that… is one of the most important issues facing us today.
… The following essay takes a look at both sides of the argument.
Introducing points
On the one hand…
Many people feel that ...
First and foremost, ... / First, let us take a look at… / To start with…
First of all, it is worth considering…
Secondly, … / Thirdly, …
Another argument in favour is ... / Another point worth noting is… / Another factor to consider
is…
Furthermore, … / In addition, … / What is more, … / On top of that, … / Moreover, …
It is clear from the facts that ...
Finally, … / Lastly, … / Last but not least, …
Contrasting points
On the other hand...
Other people think ...
An opposing argument is ...
I find it hard to see why ...
I certainly don't believe that ...
It is difficult to believe that ...
Although / even though…
Despite / In spite of… / Despite the fact that…
However, … / Nevertheless, … / Even so, …
Organising and linking your ideas
Expressing result
As a result, … / As a result of…
… has led to… / … has resulted in…
Consequently, … / Therefore, …
On account of… / Due to…
One reason behind this is…
Concluding
To sum up, … / In conclusion, …
All things considered, … / Taking everything into consideration, …
Weighing up both sides of the argument, …
The advantages of… outweigh the disadvantages.
Opinion
As far as I’m concerned, …
From my point of view, …
In my opinion, …
Personally speaking, …
My own view on the matter is…
HOW TO WRITE AN INFORMAL LETTER OR
EMAIL
What is an informal letter or email?
An informal letter or email, also referred to as a friendly, is a personal letter or email written to
friends or relatives. There are fewer formatting rules for informal letters than there are for
business or formal letters.
Structure of an informal letter or email
An informal letter begins with a salutation or greeting followed by the recipient's name and a
comma.
Then, you should reply by referring to the sender’s email or letter.
Next, you must include a reason for replying, that is, the letter body. If the topic changes, start
a new paragraph.
After commenting all the questions in the task, start the closing of the letter or email by giving
an excuse to stop writing. Add a closing phrase also followed by a comma and the sender's
signature.
Informal greeting (,)
Reference to sender’s
mail
Reason for replying
If topic changes, new
paragraph
Excuse to stop writing
Informal closing phrase
Signature
Useful language for informal letters or emails
Remember that you can use contractions (don’t, haven’t) and exclamation marks (but not too
many) to express emotion. Short simple sentences are acceptable in this type of writing. Don’t
complicate yourself too much.
Greeting
Dear (first name), or Hi (first name) (for informal e-mails)
Beginnings
Thank you/Many thanks for your (recent/last) letter/postcard/email.
It was good/nice/exciting to hear from you recently.
I’m sorry I haven’t written/been in touch for such a long time.
It’s been ages since I’ve heard from you. I hope you’re/you and your family are well.
Asking
Hi! / How are the things? / How are you? / How’s it going?
Referring to their news
Great news about … Glad to hear that … Sorry to hear about …
Giving news
Listen, did I tell you about …? / You’ll never believe what …
Oh, and another thing … / This is just to let you know that …
I thought you might be interested to hear about/know that …
By the way, have you heard about/did you know that …
Apologies
I’m writing to apologise for… but I’m afraid I...
I’m really sorry that I forgot to… but I....
If you let me know where you bought it/how much it cost, I’ll gladly pay for it/replace it.
Please let me know how much the bill is and I’ll gladly pay it.
Invitations
I’m/We’re having a party on Friday 19th and I/we hope you’ll be able to come.
Would you like to come/go to see ‘Room With a View’ with me at the weekend?
I was wondering if you’d like to go to the theatre/come on holiday with us?
Could you let me/us know if you can come/you’d like to join us?
Thank you very much for your invitation. I’d love to come.
Thank you for asking/inviting me to … but I’m afraid I won’t be able to …
Requests
I’m writing to ask for your help/you (if you could do me) a favour.
I wonder if/I was wondering if you could help me/do me a favour.
I hope you don’t mind me asking but could you (possibly) …?
I’d be very/really/terribly grateful if you could …
Thank you / Congratulations / Good Luck
I’m writing to thank you for your hospitality/the wonderful present.
It was so kind of you to invite me to stay with you.
I really appreciated all your help/advice.
Congratulations on passing your exams/your excellent exam results!
I wish you good luck/Good luck in/with your exams/your driving test/your interview.
Don’t worry, I’m sure you’ll do well/pass.
Making suggestions and recommend
Why don’t you …? / Maybe you could …? / How about …?
You can’t leave New York without doing…
I’m sure you will enjoy doing... If you like, we can …
Do visit (somewhere). Don’t forget to (do…) (Imperative -> Strong Recommendation)
I’m told that … / People say that … (If you heard something is good)
Excuses to stop writing
Must dash / leave now – I’ve got to go to college / English classes / ballet classes.
Endings
Give my love/regards to … / Say hello to … / Hope to hear from you soon.
See you soon! / Write soon. / Once again, thank you for all your help.
Signing off
Love,
Lots of love,
All the best,
Best wishes,
+ First name
HOW TO WRITE A FORMAL LETTER OR EMAIL
What is a formal letter or email?
A formal letter/email will encompass many things and is related to business writing.
Any communication that is considered to be official enough to be explicitly written or typed in
a letter can be called a formal letter.
In your writing exam, you are usually asked to write a letter of application.
Structure of a formal letter or email (application letter)
The layout for a formal letter resembles the business letter format with any differences solely
occurring in the content of the letter. All formal letters will include the following aspects, not in
this order as they may be arranged in individual preference:
Firstly, you must include a formal greeting. If you know the name of the person you are writing
to, begin Dear Mr/Mrs/Ms Jones. If you don’t really know their name, just write Dear
Sir/Madam, followed up with a comma.
In the following paragraph, state why you are writing and what you are responding at (for
example, an advert in a local newspaper, a prospectus…)
Next, describe briefly yourself or your current situation.
Then, make it clear why you are applying for the job/scholarship/initial enquiries and say why
you would be a suitable candidate taking into account the requirements of the task. Make sure
you cover all the points in the question task.
Finish your writing politely and being positive, but not too much.
Add Yours sincerely (if you know the name of the person you are writing to) or Yours faithfully
(if you don’t).
Add your signature and just underneath write your full name clearly.
Formal greeting (,)
Why are you writing?
Brief description of
your current situation
Why are you applying
for the job? Why are
you suitable for it?
Closing
Yours faithfully,
Yours sincerely,
Signature
Full name
Useful language for formal letters or emails
Remember that you are writing a formal email, so use formal expressions and phrases. Try to
include complex grammatical structures, such as conditionals. Remember to avoid chatty
language, phrasal verbs and contractions, as they are really informal.
Greeting
Dear Mr/Ms (surname), Dear Sir/Madam/Sir or Madam,
Reason for writing
I am writing to apply for the post/position of … as advertised in …
I am writing with reference/in response to your advertisement, which I saw …
I am writing in connection with your advertisement in the Daily Star on May 11th …
With reference to your advertisement …
Experience / Qualifications / CV
I gained some experience while …
I am currently working as …
I have been working for … for the last four years.
I worked part-time for three years as …
At the moment I am employed by …
My qualifications include …
I have a diploma in …
I graduated from Barcelona University last year with a degree in …
Please find attached my CV
As you can see from the attached CV …
Reasons for applying
The reason (why) I am applying for… is…
I would be so fortunate if…
Endings
Please do not hesitate to contact me if… / should you require further information.
I would appreciate being given the opportunity to…
I would be very grateful if you would consider my application.
I am available for interview at your convenience.
I shall be available for interview any day apart from Wednesdays.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Signing off
(If Dear + surname) Yours sincerely,
(If Dear Sir/Madam) Yours faithfully,
+ Signature
+ First name + surname
Structure of a formal letter or email (to express concern or dissatisfaction with sth)
Firstly, you must include a formal greeting. If you know the name of the person you are writing
to, begin Dear Mr/Mrs/Ms Jones. If you don’t really know their name, just write Dear
Sir/Madam, followed up with a comma.
In the following paragraph, state why you are writing and what you are responding at.
In the second and third (if needed) paragraphs, you should include the input material, the one
you have in the given task itself.
In the following paragraph, you should include the desired outcome, what you want to achieve
by the letter.
Finally, you need to give an ending to your letter.
Sign the letter and just underneath, write your full name.
Useful language for formal letters or emails
Remember that you are writing a formal email, so use formal expressions and phrases. Try to
include complex grammatical structures, such as conditionals. Remember to avoid chatty
language, phrasal verbs and contractions, as they are really informal.
Reasons for writing
I am writing with regard / reference to (the article which appeared when/where) to express my
concern about / disappointment with / dissatisfaction with / disapproval of / apologies for
(motivation)
Body (2/3 paragraphs – Points from input material)
Firstly / To begin with / Moreover
In fact /Furthermore / In addition / Finally
(I feel) I must also (dis)agree with
I would like to/ I want to point out that
According to your (article) / Your (article) states that… However / which is completely wrong
Action step / Desired outcome
I trust / very much hope you will (print this letter in the next issue of your newspaper)
I would appreciate it / be grateful if you would
It seems only fair that you should
I look forward to receiving / seeing
In light of the above
I feel I am entitled to a full refund and a formal apology
Ending
Yours faithfully/Yours Sincerely
Signature
Full name
HOW TO WRITE PROPOSAL
What is a proposal?
A proposal starts by describing the situation in a business, school, club, or other organisation
you might be part of. For example, you might have to talk about the computer room in your
college or the state of the canteen in your office. Sounds like a report, doesn't it? Well so far
it's pretty similar.
The difference between a report and a proposal is that in the latter we have to give
recommendations on improving the situation.
You have to persuade whoever is reading the proposal to make the changes you think are best.
So:
describe a situation
say how you think it could be better
try to convince someone you are right
Structure of a proposal
As you'd expect, sometimes the proposals in CAE are set in the business world, and sometimes
in the academic world. In these cases, you'll be writing in quite a formal style. Another
common scenario is that you're in a club and want to propose some changes - if you're writing
to the other members of the club you can be a bit less formal but you should still be polite.
You should use headings, and have an intro and conclusion. You CAN use bullet points but I tell
my students to write in full sentences. It's a writing test not a bullet point test. Bullet points
can help people read something efficiently, but they are often used by writers who are too
lazy/scared to write complete sentences. Use them with care!
There are standard headings that you should use. They can be adapted to almost any type of
proposal question:
Introduction
Current Situation
Suggestions
Final Recommendations
Title
Introduction
Current situation
Suggestions
Final recommendations
Useful language for a proposal
Introduction
The aims of this proposal are to...
This proposal evaluates....
This proposal is intended to present the...
Current situation
Many students / local residents / pensioners / members of the local community have
commented that...
There is a strong feeling among all concerned that...
Following a survey of local residents, it was found that...
Suggestions
It is recommended that...
There should be...
It would be advantageous to...
Final recommendations
If the above suggestions are implemented there would be...
Unless the recommendations are taken seriously, it is unlikely that...
Implementation of the above ideas would result in...
HOW TO WRITE A REPORT
What is a report?
A report is written for a clear purpose and to a particular audience. Specific information and
evidence are presented, analysed and applied to a particular problem or issue. The information
is presented in a clearly structured format making use of sections and headings so that the
information is easy to locate and follow.
When you are asked to write a report you will usually be given a report brief which provides
you with instructions and guidelines.
Structure of a report
The main feature of reports is their headings and sub-headings. Write a general heading
including the topic (e.g.: Report on improving the actual situation of the school canteen,
Report on proposed end-of-term trip).
Then, use sub-headings to categorise each section. You usually have the sections you have to
include in the exam task.
Generally, you have to include an introduction, entitled Introduction, where you should state
the aim of the report and where you got the information (make this last up).
Depending on the report you have to write, you may have to include Advantages and
Disadvantages, Currect situation or Aspects to improve, among others.
Next add Recommendations. This is what needs to be done. In plain English, explain your
recommendations, putting them in order of priority. You can use lists in this paragraph.
Finally, include the Conclusion, where everything comes together. Keep this section free of
jargon and as unbiased and objective as possible. You are summarising the ideas other gave to
you through a questionnaire or an interview.
Title
Introduction
Main aim of the report
and where you got the
information
Sub-heading 1
Content
Sub-heading 2
Content
Recommendations
Recommendation 1
Recommendation 2
Conclusion
Useful language for a report
Introduction
The aim / purpose of this report is to consider / suggest /...
This report is intended to...
I summarise below / Below is a summary of the most important relevant points as well as
some recommendations.
Reporting results
Most people seem to feel that...
Several people said / told me / suggested / thought that…
Making recommendations
I would therefore recommend that we expand the library / installing a new coffee machine...
It would seem that banning mobile phones is the best idea.
Having considered the options, …
I would like to suggest / recommend …
I therefore suggest / recommend …
You may wish to consider …
HOW TO WRITE A REVIEW
What is a review?
A review is an article that presents a critical evaluation of a text, performance, or production
(for example, a book, movie, concert, or video game). A review customarily includes the
following elements:
Identification of the genre or general nature of the subject being reviewed
A brief summary of the subject matter (such as the basic plot of a film or novel)
A discussion supported by evidence of the specific strengths and weakness of the
subject reviewed
Structure of a review
We usually include a title for the review. Doesn’t need to be extremely catchy, as the one in
articles. You can use the name of the book, videogame or film you are reviewing, but you can
also be more original and add something just like: A review on one of the most in vogue
film/book/videogame.
Title
Present what you are
going to review, giving
some short facts about
it (author, director,
creator… what it is
about)
State the strengths of
it
State the
weaknesses of it
Recommendations
Useful language for a review
FILM REVIEW
Kind of film (genre)
drama
action film
thriller
Producer
produced by
Director
a film directed by
to develop
a story by
well-directed
expertly directed.
Screenplay/script
from
a screenplay by
multi-layered script
screenwriter
The script was written by
... co-writes
‘s writing is astonishing/plausible/witty
tightly written
give characters the opportunity to
Setting/atmosphere
is set in
The story unfolds in
provides the setting for
create a certain atmosphere/mood
Actors/characters
exceptional performance
fervently performed, well-acted
... does a very good job as
The performances in ... are excellent.
... gives the part much personality
... adds a lot to the film
... is absolutely remarkable/especially memorable as
... is very/less convincing
The most complex/incredibly played character is that of...
newcomer a film full of wonderful characters
appealing, fascinating, funny, stereotypical, two-dimensional,
warm-hearted
Plot/story
amusing, boring, clichéd, confusing, entertaining, exciting,
melodramatic, thrilling, unbelievable
arouse curiosity
full of tension
build up to/reach
a climax
develop
a story
interlocking stories/fragmented narrative/non-linear narrative
unexpected plot twists
One of the most surprising moments in the film occurs when
Dialogue
melodramatic
(un)convincing
realistic
Music/soundtrack
The music conveys a sad/happy/melancholy atmosphere
The music underlines a mood/evokes feelings/shows a character’s
emotions/connects scenes
The music and the lyrics support the plot.
Miscellaneous
The film contains a few funny bits.
… full of humorous moments
The film gets extremely dramatic in places.
One of the most poignant scenes of the movie …
powerful scenes
final scene
The film is close to reality.
Evaluation
a must-see/a smash hit
a box-office success/failure
an audience pleaser
well worth seeing
not to be missed
a moving production/an emotionally strong film
a truly great piece of filmmaking
a skilful piece of filmmaking
an impressive debut
a very moving portrayal
I definitely recommend this film to everybody …
The film is a worthwhile watch.
On a scale from zero to five, I give this film a five.
The film literally brought tears to my eyes.
I highly/strongly/definitely recommend the film.
If you like …, this is the film for you.
If you found films like … or … compelling, then be sure to give … your full attention.
I certainly wouldn’t recommend the film, because …
I’m afraid … is a complete waste of time and money.
It’s a film that will change the way you think about …
I was impressed by …
BOOK REVIEW
Author and title + intended audience + type of book
… was written by …
This book is addressed to…
This is a mystery / horror / fantasy / historical book with lots of…
A thrilling tale about (good versus evil; kindness versus selfishness; …)
An action packed tale
This non-fiction book is written for a general audience / children….
A fast, funny and really satisfying story about…
Part fantasy thriller, part drama and part teenage love story, this novel….
Part social satire, part mystery with a healthy dose of, comedy and angst.
It is about friendship / trouble at school / coping with…
Summary in 40 – 60 words mentioning characters and setting if it is asked for in the
task
The story, narrated in … person, is written through the eyes of…
After _____-ing, ….
It is set in XIVth century rural England…
Evaluation of it
A great, funny and gripping book I couldn’t stop reading it
It is a fascinating story
This is a remarkable story
It is mysterious, strange and, at one point, worrying
It is a sad but well written tale of…
It's a great story, with lots of pace, lots of familiar situations, and a little bit of magic.
A marvellous, creepy, wise and funny story
This was a great book to read
This book is quite funny but most of all freaky
It is also sad and exciting
It is wonderful / easy to read
The story soon gets the reader involved
The language is very realistic
The similes and metaphors are vivid (and witty)
The dialogues are very realistic and this makes it easy to be inside the story
One of the best things about the book is the way the author gets you to know …
It has a good story line
This book is amazing down to the last page
It's easy to read and difficult to forget.
(The author) keeps it simple; (s)he creates her characters and lets them tell their stories.
(The author) is [serious, humorous, witty, ironic, sentimental, moralizing, compassionate,
pessimistic, cynical, nostalgic, satirical, critical, etc.] in his attitude toward [THEME / SUBJECT]
The title really helps define the plot.
A humorous look at …., with imaginative use of language to create an amusing set of
characters and plot, this book….
This book is both hilarious and educational,
The book is full of [irreverent / black / dry / gentle / schoolboy / deadpan] humour.
The text is supported by dramatic illustrations
The witty illustrations capture the conflict perfectly
…with great vibrant illustrations
The illustrations are delightful
The illustrations of … are particularly amusing / charming.
…with lively black-and-white illustrations
The illustrations are suitably expressive and the comic style will engage readers
The illustrations are bursting with life
Very expressive drawings illustrate the changing moods of…
Written in various fonts with humorous black and white illustrations/cartoons throughout, …
I found the book slow at first but after a while
The quirky humour and enigmatic ending will probably leave some readers confused but
others delighted.
…packed with warmth and gentle humour.
The book made me feel…
(A character) reminded me of… / the setting reminded me of…
I couldn’t put the book down because…
The book contains vivid images and symbols which reveal a ___-ist perspective.
The main conflict, …, is intelligently solved in an unexpected end.
The narrative structure is simple / is complex with different subplots leading to…
Curiosity is aroused by the smart use of dilemmas /irony / foreshadowing / flashbacks…
The setting is presented with photographic detail / through a few suggestive details / indirectly
through thoughts and actions
Recommendations:
In my opinion this book should be read by …… year olds
Children will be simply delighted with it.
I would gladly recommend you all, no matter what age, to read…
I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys mystery
I would highly recommend it to anyone
Everyone will find something to appreciate
I think that ages from 10 up will probably enjoy it
I think this book is perfect for people of my age because…
I don’t think this book is suitable for children of my age because…
It will leave readers with a great deal to think about.
VIDEOGAME REVIEW
Not only in videogames reviews but also in books and films reviews, the importance of the text
lies in the witty use of adjectives. So here you have a list of interesting adjectives you could
include in your reviews:
action-packed, amusing, badly acted, balanced, beautiful, (extremely) boring,
breathtaking, captivating, compelling, complex, (totally/slightly) confusing,
contrived, disappointing, enigmatic, enjoyable, entertaining, exciting, fantastic,
(totally/rather) far-fetched, (truly) fascinating, funny, gripping, hilarious,
humorous, inspiring, lousy, manipulative, masterful, perfect, poignant,
powerful, (un)realistic, ridiculous, romantic, overacted, overrated,
overwhelming, (im)perfect, predictable, provocative, silly, stupid, surprising,
super, tense, unbelievable, unoriginal, (highly) uplifting
You can also include some of the useful phrases mentioned before, obviously adapted for a
videogame review.