The 2 CELPIP writing tasks
You type both answers on a computer in 53 minutes. Each task has its own clock, and the screen shows a word counter.
| Task | Time | Length | What you write |
|---|---|---|---|
| Task 1: Writing an email | 27 min | 150–200 words | An email about an everyday situation, covering 3 bullet points |
| Task 2: Responding to survey questions | 26 min | 150–200 words | Your choice between two options, with reasons |
How CELPIP writing is scored
Raters score four areas, similar to speaking.
- Content and coherence: clear ideas, supported with details, in a logical order with paragraphs.
- Vocabulary: a range of words used correctly and precisely.
- Readability: grammar, spelling, punctuation and sentence variety that make the text easy to read.
- Task fulfillment: covering every point the task asks for, in the right tone, within the word range.
Common mistakes that cost points
- Missing a bullet point. Each Task 1 prompt lists three things to include. Skipping one hurts task fulfillment more than a grammar slip.
- The wrong tone. An email to a landlord needs a polite, formal tone. An email to a friend can be relaxed.
- Choosing both options in Task 2. Pick one side clearly and defend it.
- No time to check. Save the last 2 to 3 minutes to fix spelling and missing words.
- Memorized paragraphs. Raters notice text that doesn't fit the task. Learn structures, not scripts.
What a writing session looks like
Send your writing before or during the session, or write a timed task live. Your coach corrects it line by line, explains the patterns behind your mistakes, and shows a model answer at your target level. Many students book one session for Task 1 and one for Task 2.
Find out what your writing would score
A coach corrects your email or survey response and shows a model answer.
Questions
How many words should a CELPIP writing answer have?
Both tasks ask for 150 to 200 words. Aim for about 180 so you have room to cover every point without rushing.
Can I write more than 200 words in CELPIP?
The guidance is 150 to 200 words. Going far over takes time away from checking your work, so stay close to the range.
Does spelling matter in CELPIP writing?
Yes. Spelling and grammar are part of readability. A few small errors are fine at higher levels, but frequent errors lower your score.