Schreiben

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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