Why Openings and Closings Matter
The first and last lines of your email create the examiner's impression. A strong opening shows you understand the task. A strong closing shows you can wrap up professionally. Together, they frame your entire response.
More practically: having template phrases ready means you spend zero think-time on openings and closings, leaving more time for the substantive middle paragraphs.
Opening Lines by Scenario
Complaint: - "I am writing to express my concern regarding..." - "I wish to bring to your attention a problem with..." - "I am writing to formally complain about..."
Request: - "I am writing to request your assistance with..." - "I would appreciate it if you could..." - "I am hoping you might be able to help me with..."
Suggestion/Proposal: - "I am writing to suggest a possible improvement to..." - "I would like to propose an idea regarding..."
Informing a friend: - "Hey! I just wanted to let you know about..." - "Great news — I've got something exciting to tell you!" - "Hope you're doing well! I wanted to fill you in on..."
Apology: - "I am writing to sincerely apologize for..." - "I owe you an apology for what happened with..."
Invitation: - "I would love to invite you to..." - "Are you free on [date]? I'm organizing..." - "I'm putting together a [event] and would love for you to come!"
Closing Lines by Scenario
Complaint: - "I would appreciate a prompt response to this matter." - "I trust that this issue will be resolved in a timely manner." - "I look forward to hearing about the steps you will take to address this."
Request: - "Thank you in advance for your assistance." - "I look forward to your response." - "Please let me know if you need any further information."
Informing a friend: - "Let me know what you think!" - "Can't wait to hear from you!" - "Talk soon — hope to see you there!"
Apology: - "Once again, I sincerely apologize and hope to make it right." - "I hope this hasn't caused too much inconvenience."
Invitation: - "It would mean a lot to have you there. Let me know!" - "Hope you can make it — it wouldn't be the same without you!"
Universal formal closings: "Sincerely," / "Kind regards," / "Best regards," Universal informal closings: "Cheers!" / "Talk soon!" / "Best,"
The Quick-Start Method
On test day, follow this sequence:
1. Read the prompt 2. Identify the scenario type (complaint? request? friend?) 3. Write your opening line from memory (5 seconds) 4. Write the body (main content — this is where your time goes) 5. Write your closing line from memory (5 seconds)
By memorizing 2–3 openings and closings for each scenario type, you save 30–60 seconds per task. That's 30–60 extra seconds for the content that actually determines your score.