CELPIP Writing: How to Write a High-Scoring CELPIP Task 1 Email in 15 Minutes

Writing a high-scoring CELPIP Task 1 email doesn’t have to be stressful—even under the 15-minute time limit. The key is understanding the structure, tone, and purpose of the email so you can organize your ideas quickly and write clearly. In this guide, you’ll learn a simple step-by-step approach to craft a professional, well-organized email that meets CELPIP’s scoring criteria for content, organization, vocabulary, and language use. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to plan, write, and review your email efficiently—without running out of time.

Prompt:
You recently ordered a laptop online, but it arrived with a damaged screen. Write an email to the company explaining the situation and requesting a solution. Include two or three details.

CELPIP Level 11–12 Sample Response

Subject: Request for Assistance with Damaged Laptop Order

Dear Customer Support Team,

I am writing to bring to your attention an issue with the laptop I received from your online store earlier this week. Although the package arrived on schedule, I noticed upon opening it that the screen had a visible crack across the top corner, making the device difficult to use for work.

Additionally, the power adapter in the box appears to be faulty. Even after several hours of charging, the laptop only reaches about ten percent battery, which prevents me from using it for more than a few minutes at a time.

I would appreciate it if you could arrange either a replacement unit or a full refund. Please let me know whether you require photographs of the damage or if I should return the laptop before receiving a new one.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your prompt reply.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Why This Answer Is Clear and Complete

CELPIP assesses writing in six categories. Here’s why this email scores highly.

1️⃣ Content / Task Completion — Excellent

  • Fully addresses the prompt

  • Clearly explains the main issue (cracked screen)

  • Provides an additional detail (faulty charger)

  • Makes a specific, reasonable request (replacement or refund)

  • Polite closing included

✔ Meets all requirements with no missing information.

2️⃣ Organization — Excellent

  • Clear, logical paragraphing

  • Progresses naturally: purpose → problems → request

  • Easy to follow

3️⃣ Vocabulary — Excellent

  • Polite, professional expressions:

    • “bring to your attention”

    • “visible crack across the top corner”

    • “appears to be faulty”

    • “arrange a replacement unit”

  • Advanced but natural and precise

4️⃣ Readability — Excellent

  • Clear, concise sentences

  • Balanced paragraphs

  • No awkward phrasing

5️⃣ Grammar — Excellent

  • Accurate verb tense usage

  • Correct conditional form (“I would appreciate it if…”)

  • No grammar or punctuation errors

6️⃣ Tone — Excellent

  • Polite and professional

  • No slang or emotional complaints

  • Appropriate for a business email

How to Write CELPIP Task 1 Quickly

Now that you’ve seen a strong model and analysis, here’s a fast, reliable method to write your own email in 15 minutes.

1️⃣ Use a Simple 4-Paragraph Email Template

This structure works for all CELPIP Task 1 prompts:

  1. Greeting + Purpose: Who you are and why you’re writing

  2. Main Problem / First Detail: Clear explanation

  3. Second Detail / Additional Info: Another issue or supporting info

  4. Request + Polite Closing: What you want + thank them

2️⃣ Maintain the Right Tone

  • Polite, semi-formal, professional

  • Use phrases like:

    • “I would appreciate it if…”

    • “I am writing regarding…”

    • “Could you please…?”

  • Avoid slang and overly casual expressions

3️⃣ Time Management: 12–15 Minutes

1–2 Minutes Read prompt carefully + underline key tasks

2–3 Minutes Plan 2–3 main points

3–10 Minutes Write the email using the template

10–15 Minutes Proofread grammar, tone, and spelling

Final Thoughts

By following this method, you can:

  • Write a well-structured CELPIP Task 1 email quickly

  • Include all necessary details clearly

  • Maintain a professional, polite tone

  • Complete it in 15 minutes, leaving time for Task 2

This sample and analysis show exactly what CELPIP markers look for: clarity, structure, accuracy, and tone.

Minju B