Writing Strategy
CELPIP Writing Task 1 Template
Last updated: June 2026
Writing Task 1 gives you 27 minutes to write an email of 150–200 words. The email can be a complaint, request, suggestion, apology, or invitation. The template below works for all five types.
How Task 1 is scored
40%
Content
20%
Vocabulary
20%
Organisation
20%
Grammar
Content is scored first and carries the most weight. An email that completes the task well but has grammar errors will outscore a grammatically perfect email that misses the task requirements.
The 4-part email structure
Opening (1 sentence, ~15 words)
State who you are and why you are writing. Do not waste words — graders score Content first.
Sample sentence:
“I am writing to bring to your attention a serious issue with the service I received at your branch on June 5.”
Body paragraph 1 — Situation (3–4 sentences)
Describe what happened. Be specific: dates, names, product or service details. Specificity signals CLB 9 content.
Sample sentence:
“On that date, I visited your downtown location to collect a package I had ordered online. Despite presenting a valid government-issued ID and the order confirmation email, the staff member at the counter refused to release the package without a secondary form of identification, which I did not have with me. I had not been informed of this requirement at the time of ordering.”
Body paragraph 2 — Impact or Request (2–3 sentences)
Explain the consequence or what you need. Use modal verbs: 'I would appreciate', 'I would like to request'.
Sample sentence:
“As a result, I was unable to collect a time-sensitive item and had to arrange an expensive same-day courier at my own expense. I would appreciate a review of this policy and a partial refund of my courier costs.”
Closing (1 sentence)
Be direct. 'I look forward to your response' is slightly better than 'Thank you' — it implies expectation of action.
Sample sentence:
“I look forward to hearing from you within five business days.”
27-minute time plan
Vocabulary by email type
complaint email
- → bring to your attention
- → I was disappointed to find
- → contrary to what was advertised
- → I would like to request a resolution
- → this situation caused considerable inconvenience
request email
- → I am writing to inquire about
- → I would appreciate your assistance with
- → at your earliest convenience
- → please confirm whether
- → I would be grateful if you could
suggestion email
- → I would like to suggest
- → it may be worth considering
- → one possible improvement would be
- → this could significantly benefit
- → I believe this change would result in
CLB 9 sample — complaint email
Dear Customer Service Manager,
I am writing to report a problem with a delivery I received from your company on June 3. Although I had ordered a portable Bluetooth speaker, the package I received contained an entirely different product — a desk lamp — that I did not order.
I contacted your telephone support line the same evening and was placed on hold for 47 minutes before the call disconnected. I then submitted an online complaint form, but I have not received any response in the five days since.
I would appreciate a replacement of the correct item to be shipped within five business days, along with a prepaid return label for the incorrect product. If you are unable to fulfil this request, I would like a full refund.
I look forward to your prompt response.
Sincerely,
Jordan Kim
Word count: 174 words. Content: clear situation, clear impact, two specific requests. Vocabulary: formal, precise. Organisation: logical flow. Grammar: no errors.
Four mistakes that cost CLB points
- ✗
Too short
Emails under 140 words are penalised for Content. Always aim for 165–190 words.
- ✗
No specific request
Many test-takers describe the problem but forget to state what they want. Always include one clear ask.
- ✗
Informal tone
Avoid contractions (don't → do not), slang, and exclamation marks in formal emails.
- ✗
Copying the prompt
Do not paste the task prompt back into your email. Graders reduce Content marks for this.
Frequently asked questions
How long should a CELPIP Writing Task 1 email be?
The recommended length is 150–200 words, with 165–190 words being the ideal target. Emails under 140 words are penalised for Content. Emails over 200 words waste time without adding points.
How many minutes do you have for CELPIP Writing Task 1?
You have 27 minutes for Task 1. The recommended split is: 3 minutes planning, 16 minutes writing (aiming for 165–190 words), and 5 minutes proofreading for missing words and article errors.
What types of emails appear in CELPIP Writing Task 1?
The five most common Task 1 email types are: complaint, request, suggestion, apology, and invitation. The 4-part template (opening → situation → impact/request → closing) works for all five types.
What is the most important criterion in CELPIP Writing Task 1?
Content is worth 40% of your Task 1 score — the single heaviest criterion. An email that completes the task well with some grammar errors will outscore a grammatically perfect email that misses the task requirements.
Can you use contractions in CELPIP Writing Task 1?
Avoid contractions (write 'do not' instead of 'don't', 'I am' instead of 'I'm') for a formal email. CELPIP Task 1 emails are typically formal or semi-formal, and contractions lower the register of your writing.