Task 1 looks easy. That's where points disappear the fastest.
60 to 120 words. A simple email. Candidates treat it as a warm-up. Yet the grading rubric is just as strict as for the longer tasks. And the mistakes here are almost always avoidable.
The trap
The instructions always contain 3 specific points to address. Forgetting even one tanks your content score, even if your French is flawless.
Most candidates read the instructions once and start writing immediately.
Key points
- Forgetting email headers (From, To, Subject) penalizes your structure score.
- Using a classical letter format instead of an email format costs presentation points.
- Going over 120 words or staying under 60 words triggers an automatic penalty.
Why this task tricks so many candidates
It's short, so you rush it. You skim the instructions, miss one of the 3 required points, skip the headers. The grader applies the same rubric as for task 3. Result: lost points on a task you thought you had nailed.
The method to never miss anything
Read the instructions twice. Underline the 3 points to address. Write the headers (From, To, Subject) before the body. Check your closing formula. Count your words. Our writing exercises replicate this exact format so the reflex is automatic on test day.
Ready to reach CLB 7?
Task 1 takes 10 minutes. Spending 2 of those on review can save you an entire CLB level.
Assess your level for free and practice in the official TCF Canada format.