writing

What tone should I use in CELPIP Writing?

Updated: 2026-04-04

Task 1 (Email) tone

Task 1 is semi-formal to casual. You're writing to a coworker, friend, or family member. Use clear language, contractions are fine, but avoid slang. Example: 'I wanted to follow up about the meeting' works; 'Yo, let's grab coffee' doesn't.

Task 2 (Survey essay) tone

Task 2 should be formal and professional. You're expressing an opinion to an unknown audience. No contractions, no slang, and no personal rants. Stay balanced and evidence-based.

Scoring impact

Mismatched tone rarely causes outright score loss, but it weakens task fulfillment. Casual tone in Task 2 sounds immature. Overly formal Task 1 sounds unnatural. Match tone to the task type.

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