The document provides frequently asked questions about writing exams. It addresses questions such as how much to write, how to plan time, where to write answers, what to do if more paper is needed, whether to write in pen or pencil, the differences between C1 and C2 exam tasks, and whether all set texts need to be studied for the CPE exam. The key information is that exam questions will indicate how much to write; it's okay to write less if all required information is included; more time shouldn't be spent on one part over the other; answers are written in the answer booklet and more paper can be requested; answers must be written in pen; C2 tasks require more abstract language use; and not

1. Frequently Asked Questions
What if I write too much, or if I don’t write enough?
The questions on the test paper will tell you how much to write. You can use this information
to help you plan your answer. If you write a shorter answer which includes all the required
information, this is OK. And if you write too much, you will only lose marks if you include details
which aren’t important or which could confuse the reader.
How long should I spend on each part?
Both parts are worth the same number of marks and you can decide how much time to spend
on each part. Just make sure you spend some time planning before you start writing each
answer and checking your work after you have finished.
Where do I write my answers?
In the candidate answer booklet. Your test centre will also provide paper for your plan, notes,
etc.
What happens if I need more paper?
Don’t worry – raise your hand and indicate that you need more paper. Just remember at the
end of the exam to submit ALL the paper you used. This includes your final answer sheet, the
question paper and any notes which you made to plan or prepare your answer.
Do I write in pen or pencil?
Don’t use a pencil. For this paper, you must write in pen.
How are the C1 Advanced and C2 Proficiency writing tasks different? They seem quite
similar …
C2 Proficiency writing questions are designed to generate language that requires you to use
more abstract functions such as hypothesising, interpreting and evaluating, and to move away
from simply fact-based responses. This raises the level of language you are expected to
demonstrate – not only in terms of structure, but also range of vocabulary and appropriateness
of style and register.
Do I have to study all the set texts (CPE)?
No – the set text questions are optional. If you decide to answer on a set text, it is only
necessary to study one of the texts, as there is always a question on each of them. And to
prepare, you can read any full-length edition of the text – at C2 Proficiency level, you should
not be reading simplified editions.
NB!
It’s not important if you write in CAPITALS or if your writing is ‘joined up’ (cursive) or not. The
important thing is that your handwriting is clear and easy to read.