The OET Writing module is designed to assess how well healthcare professionals can communicate through writing in real clinical situations. This section of the Occupational English Test (OET) is profession-specific, meaning nurses, doctors, dentists, and physiotherapists all receive writing tasks tailored to their field.

In this blog, we break down the format, assessment criteria, time management strategies, and proven tips to help you score high in the OET Writing exam.

OET Writing Module: Format & Structure

The OET Writing test checks whether you can write a clear, accurate, professional letter based on provided case notes. Here’s how the task is structured:

1. Reading Time – 5 Minutes

During the first five minutes, you can only read the case notes and instructions.
Use this time to:

• Understand the patient’s condition

• Identify the purpose of the letter

• Highlight key details

• Note any special instructions

A strong start begins with understanding the task clearly.

2. Writing Time – 40 Minutes

You must write a letter (usually 180–200 words) based on the case notes. The letter may be one of the following:

• Referral Letter

• Discharge Letter

• Transfer Letter

• Update Letter

Standard Letter Structure

Your letter should include:

• Sender’s address

• Date

• Recipient’s address

• Formal greeting

• Introduction (who the patient is & purpose of the letter)

• Body paragraphs

• Recommendations or requests

• Formal closing and signature

A well-structured letter shows professionalism and clarity—two major scoring factors.

3. Profession-Specific Content

Each candidate receives a task tailored to their field.
For example:

• Nurses may write referral or discharge letters

• Doctors may write medical updates

• Physiotherapists may write progress reports

This ensures the writing task feels realistic and relevant to your profession.

OET Writing Assessment Criteria (6 Key Areas)

Your writing is scored using six detailed criteria. Understanding these can dramatically improve your performance.

1. Purpose (0–3 points)

Examiners check whether:

• The main purpose of the letter is clear from the beginning

• The purpose is fully developed

A high score means the reader immediately understands why you're writing.

2. Content (0–7 points)

This assesses whether:

• You included all essential information

• Your details are accurate

• You avoided missing key facts

Only relevant details from the case notes should be used.

3. Conciseness & Clarity (0–7 points)

Examiners expect:

• Clear, logical writing

• No unnecessary details

• Sharp focus on patient needs

Avoid copying case notes directly—convert them into meaningful, concise sentences.

4. Genre & Style (0–7 points)

This checks:

• Professional, formal tone

• Appropriate language for healthcare settings

• Medical terminology used correctly

Your letter must sound like a professional document written for a colleague.

5. Organization & Layout (0–7 points)

You must show:

• Proper paragraphing

• Logical flow of information

• A clean, easy-to-read layout

A well-organized letter improves readability and professionalism.

6. Language (0–7 points)

This covers:

• Grammar

• Vocabulary

• Spelling

• Punctuation

• Sentence structure

Accuracy and clarity are essential to scoring well.

Scores Needed for Grade B

To achieve a Grade B, which most professions require:

• Purpose: 2 / 3

• Other criteria: 5 / 7 each

Understanding this helps you focus on what matters most.

Time Management Strategy for OET Writing

Effective time management can make a significant difference. Here is the recommended breakdown:

• Read Case Notes: 5 minutes

• Plan Your Letter: 2–3 minutes

• Write Your Letter: 30–32 minutes

• Proofread: 5 minutes

Following this structure ensures a balanced, high-quality response.

Top Tips to Score High in the OET Writing Module

If you want to improve your writing score, follow these expert strategies:

1. Understand the Assessment Criteria

Know exactly what examiners look for.
This helps you shape your writing correctly.

2. Study High-Scoring Samples

Reviewing sample letters helps you understand:

• Tone

• Structure

• Level of detail

• Medical language

3. Practice Regularly

Write consistently using real OET-style case notes.
Practice builds confidence and speed.

4. Get Expert Feedback

A trained OET tutor can point out:

• Weak grammar

• Missing content

• Poor structure

Feedback is one of the fastest ways to improve.

5. Strengthen Grammar & Vocabulary

Focus especially on:

• Passive voice

• Medical terminology

• Linking words

• Formal tone

Accurate grammar and vocabulary are essential for a professional letter.

6. Use a Professional Tone

Always avoid:

• Informal language

• Contractions

• Slang

Your writing should sound clinical, respectful, and formal.

7. Plan Before You Write

Use the reading and planning time wisely:

• Identify the main purpose

• Organize patient details logically

• Decide what information is necessary

8. Convert Case Notes into Clear Sentences

Do not copy case notes word-for-word.
Rewrite them in a smooth, coherent way.

9. Practice Timed Writing

Simulate real test conditions to improve speed and accuracy.

10. Stay Calm and Focused

A calm mind helps you produce:

• Clear writing

• Logical thinking

• Fewer mistakes

Final Thoughts

The OET Writing module may seem challenging, but with the right strategies, practice, and understanding of the scoring criteria, you can confidently achieve the score you need. Focus on clarity, professionalism, and accurate content, and you’ll be well on your way to a high OET Writing score.