When your goal is to immigrate, secure work visas or get a permanent residency in Canada, PTE Core is the way to go. One of the most enticing aspects of this exam is its swiftness in publishing the results. Within 2 days, you’ll have the scorecard in hand, and you can plan for your next move. Also, there are around 500+ test centres worldwide. All you need to do is choose the nearest one and get into a serious preparation zone. In this blog, we’re assisting you with email writing strategies so you can score well in the Reading and Writing section.

Understand PTE Core E-Mail Writing

The email writing task is within the writing section of the PTE Core test, wherein candidates are required to write formal, semi-formal or informal emails according to the prompt. The question involves 3 bullet pointers, and the test takers are expected to include all of these within the mail.

For example: “Write a letter to a library coordinator outlining your concerns regarding the recent challenges faced within the library. You must also propose solutions. The email must include:

Overview of issues encountered when finding a book in a particular genre.
Two concrete suggestions that can help resolve the issue.
Express your dedication to ensuring the library is full and stays a reliable space for budding scholars and convey willingness to help with the cause.”

When drafting the email, it’s pivotal to add context for all three bullets. Only then will you be receiving the desirable score. You will have 9 minutes for the task and are required to write at least 80-120 words for the answer.

Tips to Score High in PTE Core E-Mail Writing Section

Partial credit applies to the email writing section of the PTE core. It means if some of your answers are accurate as per the prompt, you can get some marks rather than being given a zero. So, attempting the section becomes all the more important.

Score is based on:

The candidate’s ability to address the topic completely
Following email writing format, i.e., appropriate formation of salutation, introduction, conclusion and farewell notes
Adherence to word count requirements
Clarity of idea presentation
Grammatical accuracy
Usage of a wide vocabulary
Using accurate spelling and maintaining single English type throughout, i.e., UK, US, Canadian or Australian

Considering such stringent scoring criteria, it’s crucial that your preparation is up to the mark. Here are a few tips to analyse, understand, write and get high scores in this section:

Develop Your Vocabulary

Learning new words will not only help you score in the email writing section but also in the entire PTE Core test. You can begin with:

Increasing language exposure through newspaper articles, movies, books, etc.
Writing new words and consistently using them.
Trying to guess the meaning of unfamiliar words
Make flash cards with a newly learnt word, its meaning and a simple sentence using it.

Write with Clarity

Rather than practising email writing in one go, start by developing the bullet pointers. This will allow you to analyse if there is a connection between sentences and whether the idea is being communicated well. You can ask your mentors or friends to read through your writing and provide suggestions. This will help improve your writing skills. Gradually move on to writing full emails, and do not forget to show them to your teachers.

Read the Prompt Carefully

When you start practising emails, the first step is to read the question carefully. Ensure you thoroughly understand the context. You must be clear about whom to address the email, what the context must be and what the concluding lines are. This will give a definite structure to your email even before you start writing. Also, you will be able to write with clarity.

Keep Practising in a Definite Structure

It’s possible that as you practice, you may want to experiment with the structure. However, our advice is to maintain the same format throughout your email writing journey, whether it’s while practising or when taking the exam. A simple structure includes:

Greeting
Introduction of the topic
Main body
Closing

The DEW (drop-expand-wrap) writing technique can help you follow this format. In this, you need to first write the introduction. Follow with details about the subject, and ensure the information in bullets has all been included in your main body. You must elaborate on your points to build a coherent narrative, and finally, wrap up with a professional concluding statement. Following this disciplined approach ensures your points are logical and leaves no room for ambiguity.

Example of PTE Core E-Mail Writing

Let’s see how the DEW technique looks in action using the library prompt from earlier.

Subject: Suggestions regarding recent library challenges

Dear Library Coordinator,

This is just to point out some difficulties that I encountered lately. Within the past week, it was tough finding books in the historical fiction genre, since most of them were misplaced on the bookshelves.

As a means of solving this problem, I have two recommendations. The first one is the installation of a digital catalogue screen at the end of each aisle, making it easier to locate books. The second recommendation is the introduction of a colour scheme for each genre to avoid such difficulties in the future.

It is my utmost desire to keep our library a reputable source for aspiring scholars, and I would like to spend this weekend volunteering my services.

Thank you for your time.
Yours sincerely,
[Your Name]

Why This Email Works

Addresses all bullets: It covers the specific genre issue, gives two clear solutions, and offers help.
Perfect structure: It flows naturally from the greeting to a clear introduction, detailed body, and formal closing.
Word count: At around 110 words, it hits the 80-120 word sweet spot perfectly.

Concluding Words

Mastering this task is all about structure and practice. Stick to the format, address every bullet point, and keep your formatting clean.

At Englishwise Dubai we can guide you in reaching your goals with personalised feedback and expert strategies. Start your preparation today and secure your path to Canada.