TCF Writing Task 1: How to Structure Your Response
Task 1 asks you to write a short message. Learn the format, useful phrases, and a simple structure that works every time.
Published February 25, 2026
TCF writing Task 1 asks you to write a short message, typically 60 to 120 words, such as an email, a note, or a message to a friend or colleague. It is the shortest writing task, but precision matters.
What Task 1 Looks Like
You receive a situation and must write an appropriate message. Examples include: inviting someone to an event, responding to an invitation, asking for information, or confirming an appointment.
A Reliable Structure
- Salutation: « Bonjour… », « Cher/Chère… »
- Opening: State the purpose: « Je vous écris pour… »
- Body: Key details (2–3 sentences)
- Closing: « Cordialement », « Bien à vous », « À bientôt »
Useful Phrases
- « Je vous écris afin de… »: I am writing to…
- « Je souhaiterais… »: I would like to…
- « Pourriez-vous me confirmer… ? »: Could you confirm…?
- « Je reste à votre disposition »: I remain at your disposal
Time Management
The full writing section is 60 minutes. Plan about 12–15 minutes for Task 1: 2 minutes to read the prompt, 8–10 minutes to write, and 2–3 minutes to review. Stay within the 60–120 word range and focus on clarity.
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