How to Improve Your OET Writing Score From C+ to B

Many doctors reach Grade B in Listening and Reading and stall at C+ in Writing. The gap is rarely grammar. It is usually selection, purpose and structure.

1. Write for the Reader

Decide who reads the letter and what they must do after reading it. State that purpose in the first paragraph, for example the reason for the referral or the request for continued care.

2. Select, Do Not Copy

The case notes contain more than the letter needs. Include what helps the reader act on the purpose and leave out routine or unrelated detail. Copying the notes in order is the commonest cause of a low score.

3. Use a Clear Structure

• Opening: patient, reason for writing.
• Background and findings that matter.
• Current treatment and the specific request.
• Closing line.

4. Control the Language

• Write in full sentences with accurate tense and a formal, professional register.
• Avoid copying phrases from the notes word for word; paraphrase and link ideas.
• Do not overuse abbreviations the reader may not know.

5. Check Time

After the 5 minutes reading time, aim to plan for 5 minutes, write for about 30 and check for about 5. See how to write a referral letter that scores well.

Practise With a Model

Write a letter from case notes, then compare it with a model in the OET writing practice section and check the key-point list. Our feedback is rule-based, so treat it as a checklist rather than an official mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should an OET letter be?

Around 180 to 200 words in the body is a common target, with the aim of clarity and relevance, not length.

Is handwriting marked?

Only in that the assessor must be able to read it.

Can I use bullet points?

Letters are normally written in paragraphs, so avoid bullets.

OET is run by Cambridge Boxhill Language Assessment. Format, fees and recognition rules change, so confirm every detail on the official OET website and with the regulator you are applying to. HighYield is an independent practice provider and is not affiliated with OET.

Practise for the OET

HighYield OET practice has listening, reading, writing and speaking practice for doctors, with a free listening sample to try first. Related guides: OET for doctors: complete guide, how to prepare and 8-week study plan.