| Total Duration | 53–60 minutes (both tasks) |
| Task 1 | Writing an Email (150-200 words) |
| Task 2 | Responding to a Survey Question (150-200 words) |
| Task 1 Tone | Formal or Semi-formal |
| Task 2 Tone | Semi-formal/Neutral |
| Key Skills Tested | Clarity, organization, grammar, vocabulary, task achievement |
CELPIP Writing Task 1 vs Task 2: What You Must Know
When it comes to the CELPIP writing tasks, many test-takers struggle not because they lack English skills, but because they don't fully understand what each task demands. The CELPIP Writing section measures how effectively you can communicate in everyday written English - from professional emails to opinion essays.
This guide breaks down both writing tasks, provides clear examples, and shares expert CELPIP writing tips to help you write confidently and score higher.
- Task 1: Email
- Task 2: Survey
- 150-200 words
- 53-60 min total
1. Understanding CELPIP Writing Task 1: Writing an Email
Task 1 asks you to write an email based on a given situation. You'll receive a prompt describing the context (e.g., complaining to a landlord, requesting information, or giving feedback).
Key Requirements:
- Write 150–200 words.
- Include a greeting, body, and closing.
- Maintain a formal or semi-formal tone, depending on the situation.
Prompt: You recently bought a product that did not work properly. Write an email to the store manager explaining the problem, requesting a replacement, and mentioning how disappointed you are.
Sample Structure:
- Greeting: Dear Manager,
- Introduction: State the purpose of your email.
- Body: Explain the issue clearly with details.
- Request: Politely suggest what you want done.
- Closing: Thank the reader.
CELPIP writing tips for Task 1:
- Use polite expressions (e.g., "I would appreciate it if you could...").
- Avoid emotional or informal language.
- Keep your sentences clear and concise.
- Include all required elements from the prompt.
2. Understanding CELPIP Writing Task 2: Responding to a Survey Question
Task 2 requires you to express your opinion in response to a survey-type question. You'll be given two options on a general topic (e.g., "Do you prefer online shopping or in-store shopping?").
Key Requirements:
- Write 150–200 words.
- Choose one option and support it with strong arguments.
- Maintain a logical, organized structure.
- Introduction: Clearly state your opinion.
- Body Paragraph 1: Give your first reason with an example.
- Body Paragraph 2: Add another supporting reason.
- Conclusion: Restate your opinion confidently.
CELPIP writing tips for Task 2:
- Use transition words like "furthermore," "in addition," and "therefore."
- Avoid sitting on the fence - choose one side and defend it.
- Stay within the word limit and proofread for grammar errors.
- Provide specific examples to support your arguments.
Key Differences Between Task 1 and Task 2
| Feature | Task 1 (Email) | Task 2 (Survey Response) |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Opinion Essay | |
| Tone | Formal/Semi-formal | Semi-formal/Neutral |
| Focus | Situation handling | Argument building |
| Goal | Request, inform, or complain | Persuade or justify |
| Structure | Greeting → Body → Closing | Intro → Reasons → Conclusion |
| Key Phrases | "I am writing to...", "Could you please..." | "In my opinion...", "I believe that..." |
Task 1 Checklist
- Correct email format
- Appropriate tone
- All prompt points covered
- Polite expressions
- Clear purpose stated
Task 2 Checklist
- Clear opinion stated
- Two supporting reasons
- Specific examples
- Transition words used
- Strong conclusion
Final Thoughts
Mastering both CELPIP writing tasks requires understanding their unique styles and practicing regularly. Task 1 focuses on professionalism and clarity, while Task 2 emphasizes logic and persuasion. By following these CELPIP writing tips and templates, you can structure your responses confidently and move one step closer to achieving your desired CLB score.
Task 1 requires professional email writing skills with appropriate tone and format. Task 2 demands clear opinion statements supported by logical arguments and examples. Master both to maximize your CELPIP Writing score.