CELPIP Writing Task 1 asks you to write an email in response to a situation. CLB 9 requires a clearly organised, purposeful email that addresses all bullet points completely. The most common failure is covering only 2 of 3 bullet points, or writing a structure that does not match the situation type.
Examples
Weak
Avoid"Hi, I am writing to you about the problem. I think it is a problem. Can you help me please? Thank you."
Stronger
Better"Dear Mr. Chen, I am writing to report a billing error on my account (Reference #8821). The invoice dated March 15 charged me $240 instead of the agreed $180. Could you please arrange a corrected invoice and confirm when the refund will be processed? I would appreciate a response within three business days. Thank you for your assistance. Regards, [Name]"
The strong email has a clear opening (purpose + reference), a specific problem description (amounts, date), a clear request with a timeframe, and a polite close. All three bullet points are covered.
How It Works
Four-part email structure
- Opening: state your purpose immediately (I am writing to / I would like to).
- Context: give the specific background (reference numbers, dates, names).
- Request/action: state clearly what you need the reader to do.
- Close: polite sign-off with a timeframe if appropriate.
Three CELPIP email types
- Complaint: formal, specific, solution-focused.
- Request: formal or semi-formal, clear ask, polite tone.
- Information-sharing: friendly, structured, covers all points asked.
CLB 9 opening phrases
Quick rules
- Address all bullet points — missing one drops your score significantly.
- Match the tone to the situation: formal for complaints, semi-formal for requests.
- Include one specific detail (number, date, name) — vague emails score lower.
Common Mistakes
Missing a bullet point
AvoidThree bullet points required. Email covers two thoroughly and ignores the third.
BetterEach bullet point gets at least one sentence, even if brief.
Fix: Before writing, underline each bullet point. Check them off as you write. The last check is before you stop.
Wrong tone for situation
Avoid"Hey! My order was wrong lol can you fix it thanks"
Better"Dear Customer Service, I am writing to report an error with Order #4521 placed on April 3rd. The item delivered does not match the description online."
Fix: CELPIP Task 1 emails are almost always formal or semi-formal. Begin with Dear [Name/Title] and end with a formal sign-off.
Practice Lab
Self-mark each task. Retry until every answer is correct.
Score: 0/3
1. Quick pick
Which opening sentence is most appropriate for a formal complaint email in CELPIP?
2. Build it
Put the sentence in the correct order.
Tap a chunk to move it between the bank and answer area.
3. Sort it
Sort each item into the correct category.
I am writing to report a fault with the heating system in my apartment.
The heating is broken and I am cold. Please fix it.
Could you please confirm the details of my appointment on June 3rd at 2:00 PM?
When is my appointment? I forgot the time.
Why It Matters
CELPIP Writing Task 1 is scored on Task Fulfilment, Coherence, Vocabulary, and Grammar. Missing a bullet point directly drops Task Fulfilment regardless of language quality. Formal register and specific details are the two markers that most consistently separate CLB 9 from CLB 7-8 responses.
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