In task 3, answering only half the instructions cuts your score in half
You read the topic. You understand the question. You start writing your opinion. And you just lost half your points. Task 3 instructions always contain two parts. Most candidates only address one.
The trap
Task 3 asks you to first reformulate the arguments, then take a position. Skipping the reformulation means partial off-topic.
Examiners evaluate how well you follow instructions before anything else.
Key points
- The instructions always have 2 parts: compare the viewpoints, then argue yours.
- A brilliant text that only addresses half the instructions caps at B1.
- 3 simple, well-structured sentences beat 5 complex off-topic ones.
Why this trap catches so many candidates
You have 60 minutes for 3 tasks. Time pressure pushes you to rush. You skim the instructions, spot the theme, and start writing. But the instructions do not just ask for your opinion. They first ask you to reformulate what the documents say, compare viewpoints, and only then take a position.
The method to avoid falling for it
Before writing, underline every action verb in the instructions. Reformulate, compare, argue: each verb equals one paragraph. Our written expression tests with feedback check that you addressed every part of the instructions.
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