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Write the perfect letter or email for the TELC B1 exam
Learn how to structure your email, use the right level of formality, and cover all required points within the 30-minute time limit.
Exam format
The writing prompt
You will be given a single prompt (e.g., a formal complaint, an informal invitation, or a request for information). It is important to understand the context and the task. Focus on the keywords in the prompt.
The four bullet points
The prompt will include four guiding points (Leitpunkte). You are expected to write about all of them logically and coherently to achieve maximum points.
Practical tips
Memorize standard greetings and sign-offs
Know the exact phrases for formal (Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren / Mit freundlichen Grüßen) versus informal (Liebe/r / Viele Grüße) letters. This guarantees easy points.
Address all four bullet points
Plan one or two sentences per bullet point. If you completely ignore a bullet point, your score will drop significantly, even if your German is perfect.
Common mistakes
Mixing formal and informal tones
Using "Du" in a formal letter to a company, or switching between "Sie" and "Du", is a major error that heavily penalizes your score.
Forgetting the date and subject line
Formal letters require a place and date (e.g., Berlin, 15. Mai) at the top right, and a subject line (Betreff). Omitting these costs structural points.
Practice this module
AI mock exams
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