Mastering the format of your OET letter is crucial for success in the Writing sub-test. Here, we address the most common questions you've asked to ensure you present a polished and professional letter:
1. Choosing the Right Closing:
- Use "Yours sincerely" if you know the recipient's name.
Opt for "Yours faithfully" when unsure.
- Avoid informal endings.
2. Signing Off:
- Your job title (Nurse, Doctor, etc.) suffices. No signature is needed.
3. Paragraph Perfection:
- Aim for 3-5 paragraphs for optimal structure.
4. Closing Sentence Magic:
- Include a closing sentence – it showcases courtesy and best practice.
- It WON'T affect your word count.
5. Capitalization Conundrums:
- Capitalize names (people, streets, cities), and job titles.
- Refer to the example provided for clarity.
6. Demystifying Dates:
- Check our dedicated resource for proper date formatting.
7. Reference Line Essentials:
- Include only the patient's full name and date of birth (or age if unavailable).
- Exclude address, marital status, and occupation.
8. Beyond Lines and Words:
- You're assessed on word count, not the number of lines written.
9. Word Count Breakdown:
- Only the main body paragraphs contribute to your word limit (starting with the opening paragraph).
10. Capitalization Consistency:
- Block capitals are permissible on paper, but maintain consistency throughout.
- Avoid them on computer-based tests.
11. Spacing Strategies:
- Separate main body paragraphs with a single blank line.
- Avoid excessive line breaks for better readability.
12. Finishing Touches:
- Utilize all provided writing space on the test booklet.
13. Planning Your Masterpiece:
- Use the back of the writing booklet for notes and planning (not assessed).
14. Spelling Savvy:
- Both British and American English are acceptable but maintain consistency.
By following these tips, you'll be well-equipped to craft a clear, concise, and well-formatted OET9 letter that shines!
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