Scoring An “A” On The OET Writing Sub-Test

OET is one of the most preferred English language testing skills for medical professionals who wish to study further or build a career abroad. The test consists of four sections – reading, writing, listening, and speaking. In this blog, we will speak about the writing section, and how to score an “A” in the sub-test.

What is the writing test?

The OET writing test has case notes and a task. The task is to write a referral letter, or a letter of transfer, a letter of discharge, a letter of advice, or a letter of information for the patient or caretaker. The test also involves stimulus material like case notes and related documentation, which includes information to use in response. You will need to pick out from the case notes as per the task, and create a logical structure for your letter. The most important thing here is to make sure that the letter is written in your own words; you aren’t supposed to just copy-paste what is given to you.

You will be given 45 minutes for this test. You will need to invest the first 5 minutes for reading and understand what the task is about. You need to identify whom you will be writing to, and why. Once you know the person and reason, you can move ahead. Medical professionals come from different fields. So, for medical professionals from different fields, the task will be assigned as per their area of expertise. For example, a neurologist will be assigned a task related to brain and nerves cases; and a physiotherapist will be assigned a task related to muscles cases. Here, you need to understand that there is purposely put case notes to distract candidates from the task, so you need to understand this trick and find out what is important. You mustn’t put in everything that is provided to you. Pick out the most essential points and make up your content. This is done to ensure that the candidate understands the task completely.

How to attempt the writing test?

There are three main tasks to attempt the writing test – selecting the relevant and important case notes, organizing them, and then transforming them into your own content. For this, you first need to understand the task completely, who you are writing to, and why. Next, you need to study the case note and understand which ones are important, and which ones are not. Once you have understood and shortlisted, you will need to write your content in neat paragraphs with a clear structure, including the introduction, main paragraph, secondary issues, and any other details. But again, we remind you here that make sure you write in your own words, which gives the impression to the examiner that you have understood the task given to you.

And for the best way you can score an “A”, not only in the writing test, but in every section of the OET, you should take up professional assistance.  Avigna Learning Academy is one of the best OET coaching centres in Hyderabad, where you will be mentored by professionals who will first analyze your level, and then teach you as per your level.