PTE CORE WRITING: TIPS FOR WRITING EMAILS
The PTE Core Writing section includes an email writing task that tests your ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and appropriately in a given situation. Since emails are widely used in personal and professional settings, it’s crucial to understand how to structure them correctly while maintaining the right tone and format.
This guide covers the structure, strategies, and key tips to help you achieve a high score in the PTE Core email writing task.
1. Understanding the PTE Core Email Task
In this task, you will be given a real-life scenario and asked to write an email based on it. Your response should be between 50 and 80 words, making conciseness and clarity essential.
Emails in PTE Core can be:
• Formal: Used in professional settings (e.g., job applications, complaints, requests).
• Informal: Used for personal communication (e.g., inviting a friend, congratulating someone).
Scoring Criteria
PTE CORE WRITING
Your email is assessed based on:
– Task Fulfillment – Does it fully address the prompt?
– Grammar & Vocabulary – Is the language appropriate and error-free?
– Clarity & Coherence – Is the email structured logically?
– Conciseness – Does it stay within the word limit?
2. Structure of a High-Scoring Email
A well-structured email consists of the following parts:
PTE CORE WRITING
1. Subject Line (Optional but Recommended)
• Should clearly state the purpose of the email.
• Example: “Request for Leave” or “Inquiry About Course Enrollment.”
2. Greeting (Salutation)
• Formal: “Dear Mr. Smith,” or “Dear Hiring Manager,”
• Informal: “Hi John,” or “Hey Lisa,”
3. Opening Sentence
• Start with a polite introduction and state the reason for writing.
• Formal: “I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to inquire about…”
• Informal: “Hope you’re doing great! I wanted to ask you about…”
PTE CORE WRITING
4. Main Body (Concise and Clear)
• Cover the key points in one or two short paragraphs.
• Use polite and precise language.
• Formal Example: “I recently purchased a phone from your store, but it is not working properly. I would appreciate a replacement or a refund.”
• Informal Example: “I’m planning a weekend trip and would love for you to join. Let me know if you’re free!”
5. Closing & Call to Action
• Formal: “I look forward to your response.”
• Informal: “Let’s catch up soon!”
PTE CORE WRITING
6. Sign-Off
• Formal: “Best regards, [Your Name]” or “Sincerely, [Your Name]”
• Informal: “Cheers, [Your Name]” or “Take care, [Your Name]”
3. Key Tips for Writing a High-Scoring PTE Core Email
1. Identify the Type of Email
• Check the prompt carefully to determine if the email should be formal or informal.
• Use appropriate language and tone for each type.
PTE CORE WRITING
2. Keep It Concise (50–80 Words)
• Avoid unnecessary details.
• Focus on the key information required by the prompt.
3. Use the Right Language
• Formal emails: Avoid contractions (e.g., use “I am” instead of “I’m”).
• Informal emails: Use casual, conversational expressions if appropriate.
PTE CORE WRITING
4. Avoid Grammar and Spelling Mistakes
• Use correct punctuation and grammar.
• Keep sentences short and simple to reduce errors.
5. Ensure Clarity and Logical Flow
• Maintain a logical sequence: Introduction → Main Body → Closing.
• Use transition words to improve coherence.
PTE CORE WRITING
