The CELPIP Writing Test is part of the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP), designed to assess English language proficiency for immigration, citizenship, and professional purposes in Canada. The writing section consists of two tasks:
Task 1: Writing an Email
- Objective: Write a formal or informal email based on a given scenario.
- Word Count: 150–200 words (recommended closer to 200 for better detail).
- Instructions: Information about the email topic is provided on the left side of the screen, while specific instructions appear on the right. Test-takers must incorporate these details into their email.
- Time Limit: 27 minutes.
- Focus: Use appropriate tone and vocabulary, depending on whether the email is formal or informal.
Task 2: Responding to Survey Questions
- Objective: Respond to a survey question by choosing one of two options and providing reasons to support your choice.
- Format: Responses can be written as an essay or an email.
- Word Count: Similar to Task 1 (150–200 words recommended).
- Time Limit: 26 minutes.
Focus: Ensure coherence, logical reasoning, and relevant examples to justify your choice.
Click Here for More Celpip Writing Email Samples

Main Differences Between Task 1 And Task 2
The main differences between Task 1 and Task 2 in the CELPIP Writing Test are as follows:
Aspect | Task 1: Writing an Email | Task 2: Responding to Survey Questions |
Objective | Write an email based on a given situation. | Respond to a survey question by choosing one of two options. |
Format | Includes a salutation, body paragraphs, and a closing (formal or informal). | No salutation or closing; responses are anonymous. |
Tone | Can vary between formal, semi-formal, or informal, depending on the context. | Always formal and logical. |
Content Requirements | Address all points provided in the prompt and organize them logically. | Justify your choice with 2-3 reasons and provide supporting examples. |
Word Limit | Approximately 150–200 words. | Approximately 150–200 words. |
Time Allocation | 27 minutes. | 26 minutes. |
Purpose | Communicate effectively in a structured email format. | Present a reasoned argument for your chosen option. |
In summary, Task 1 focuses on writing an email with appropriate tone and structure, while Task 2 emphasizes logical reasoning and persuasive writing to justify a decision.
Some common mistakes to avoid in the CELPIP writing test
Here are some common mistakes to avoid in the CELPIP Writing Test, along with tips to address them effectively:
- Not Following Instructions
- Mistake: Ignoring the task’s specific requirements, such as tone (formal/informal) or format (email/survey response).
- Solution: Carefully read the prompt, highlight key details, and ensure your response aligns with the instructions.
- Poor Structure and Organization
- Mistake: Writing disorganized responses that lack clear paragraphs or logical flow.
- Solution: Create a quick outline before writing. Use an introduction, 2–3 body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Ensure each paragraph has a main idea and supporting details.
- Overusing Simple Sentences
- Mistake: Relying too much on short, simple sentences, making the writing appear choppy.
- Solution: Vary sentence structure by combining short and long sentences. Use linking words (e.g., however, because) and experiment with complex grammatical structures.
- Lacking Details and Examples
- Mistake: Writing vague or general responses without specific examples.
- Solution: Support your ideas with relevant examples or personal experiences to add depth to your response.
- Overcomplicating Language
- Mistake: Using advanced vocabulary incorrectly or unnecessarily complex sentences.
- Solution: Stick to familiar words and structures. Focus on clarity and correctness rather than complexity.
- Grammar and Spelling Errors
- Mistake: Making frequent grammar mistakes (e.g., verb tense errors, subject-verb agreement) or typ
- Solution: Brush up on grammar basics and proofread your work for errors. The CELPIP test includes a basic spell checker, but manual review is essential.
- Using the Wrong Tone
- Mistake: Adopting an inappropriate tone for the task (e.g., informal tone in a formal email).
- Solution: Identify the required tone from the prompt. Use contractions and casual language for informal tasks but avoid them in formal writing.
- Ignoring Word Count
- Mistake: Writing too much or too little, which can lead to penalties.
- Solution: Stay within the recommended word count (150–200 words). If you’re under, add examples; if over, remove unnecessary details.
- Skipping Proofreading
- Mistake: Submitting responses without reviewing for errors.
- Solution: Allocate 5–7 minutes at the end to proofread for spelling, grammar, and logical flow.
- Poor Time Management
- Mistake: Spending too much time on one task or rushing through both.
- Solution: Divide your time wisely—around 27 minutes for Task 1 and 26 minutes for Task 2. Practice timed writing exercises to improve speed and efficiency.
Avoiding these mistakes through careful preparation, structured writing, and consistent practice can significantly improve your CELPIP Writing Test score.
Some Tips To Attempt CELPIP Writing Test
Improve grammar for the CELPIP writing test
To improve your grammar for the CELPIP Writing Test, consider the following strategies:
- Study Grammar Rules
- Focus on key areas like verb tenses, subject-verb agreement, sentence structure, punctuation, and prepositions.
- Use reputable grammar books or online resources to reinforce your understanding.
- Practice Writing Regularly
- Dedicate time to writing daily. Start with short paragraphs and progress to essays or emails.
- Pay attention to sentence variety, coherence, and grammatical accuracy in your practice.
- Read Widely
- Reading books, articles, and essays exposes you to correct grammar usage and diverse sentence structures.
- Analyze how professional writers construct sentences and use grammar effectively.
- Use Grammar Exercises
- Engage in interactive grammar exercises and quizzes to test your knowledge and identify weak areas.
- Many online platforms offer tailored exercises for different skill levels.
- Seek Feedback
- Share your writing with native speakers, teachers, or language professionals for constructive criticism.
- Feedback helps you identify recurring grammar errors and improve over time.
- Proofread Your Work
- Always review your writing for grammar mistakes, spelling errors, and awkward phrasing.
- Allocate 5–7 minutes at the end of each task during the test for proofreading.
- Leverage Grammar Tools
- Use tools like Grammarly or ProWritingAid to check your grammar during practice sessions.
- These tools can highlight errors and suggest corrections.
- Avoid Passive Voice
- Prefer active voice for clarity and directness (e.g., “She completed the task” instead of “The task was completed by her”).
- Learn from Sample Essays
- Review sample CELPIP essays to understand how successful candidates use grammar effectively.
- Enroll in Grammar Courses
- Consider taking structured English language courses that focus on improving grammar skills.
By combining these strategies with consistent practice, you can enhance your grammar proficiency and perform better on the CELPIP Writing Test.