PET
Writing Overview
Writing 1 · compulsory email · Writing 2 · article or story
Format and timing
Writing 1
Compulsory email · ~100 words · ~20 minutes
Writing 2
Choice of article or story · ~100 words · ~25 minutes
Total
2 tasks · 45 minutes · 25% of the total exam score
Writing 1 — Compulsory email
You must write an email of about 100 words in response to an email you have received. You will be given four prompts (notes) connected to the input email that you must include in your reply.
- Cover all four prompt points — they are essential for your score
- Use a greeting and sign-off appropriate for an email
- Aim for around 100 words (don't write much less or much more)
- Organise your email clearly into paragraphs
Writing 2 — Article or Story
You choose one task from two options. Both require about 100 words:
Article
An engaging piece for a magazine or website — personal voice, clear structure, interesting opening
Story
A short narrative using the given first or last sentence — past tenses, clear sequence, interesting ending
- Plan before you write: a quick outline saves time and improves structure
- Use linking words: however, although, as a result, in addition
- Aim for exactly 100 words — 90–110 is fine
- Check for common errors: verb tenses, subject-verb agreement, punctuation
Tip
Read both Writing 2 options carefully before choosing. Pick the topic you have the most ideas for, not the one that looks easiest at first glance.