CAE Writing Part 1: Essay Guide
Short Tips and Guidelines
1. Plan before you write: choose two points from the notes and decide which is more significant.
2. Write in a formal, objective style. Avoid contractions, personal anecdotes, or emotional language.
3. Organise your essay into clear paragraphs: Introduction, Body 1, Body 2, Conclusion.
4. Support your points with reasons, evidence, or examples.
5. Use linking phrases to make your ideas flow logically.
6. Aim for precision: use abstract nouns and advanced vocabulary where appropriate.
7. Word limit: 220–260 words (280 for this version).
Essay Plan
Section
Purpose
Useful Phrases
Introduction
Paraphrase the question, mention both points,
It is and
oftenstate
claimed
yourthat...
position
| One
clearly.
key issue to consider is..
Body Paragraph 1
Discuss the first point and support it with examples
One major
or evidence.
advantage is... | This allows... | For instance
Body Paragraph 2
Discuss the second point; include a contrast
However,
or limitation.
it can also lead to... | A case in point is... | Ne
Conclusion
Summarise and state which point is more significant.
On balance... | In conclusion... | Overall, it seems that..
Useful Language
**Introducing ideas:** It is widely believed that... / One important aspect to consider is... / A common
view is that...
**Adding information:** Furthermore / In addition / What is more / Another point worth mentioning
is...
**Contrasting ideas:** However / On the other hand / Despite this / Nevertheless
**Giving examples:** For example / A case in point is / Such as / For instance
**Concluding:** On balance / In conclusion / Overall, it seems that / Therefore, it can be said that...
Model Essay (Approx. 280 words)
**The Impact of Social Media on Young People**
Social media has become an integral part of daily life, particularly for young people. It influences
how they communicate, learn, and express themselves. While many argue that its effects are
largely positive, others suggest that it can be damaging. This essay will consider two key areas of
influence: creative opportunities and exposure to advertising.
One major benefit of social media is the opportunity it provides for creativity and self-expression.
Young people can share artwork, music, or opinions with a global audience, receiving feedback and
developing useful digital skills. Platforms such as YouTube and TikTok have given rise to a
generation of content creators who transform their interests into careers. This has encouraged
innovation and broadened cultural perspectives.
However, social media also exposes users to a constant flow of advertising and subtle
manipulation. Companies frequently use influencers to promote products in ways that seem
personal and trustworthy. This approach can easily mislead younger audiences and create
unrealistic expectations about lifestyle or appearance. Furthermore, the addictive design of many
platforms encourages dependence, which may reduce face-to-face interaction and critical thinking.
On balance, although social media promotes creativity and global connection, its potential to
manipulate and commercialise attention is more significant. Education on digital literacy and
responsible platform design is essential if young people are to benefit fully from online
communication. By focusing on awareness and ethical use, society can ensure that technology
remains a tool for growth rather than exploitation.
CAE Essay Practice: Fill-in Version
**Title: The Impact of Social Media on Young People**
Nowadays, social media plays an important role in
____________________________________________. One significant impact is
____________________________________________, which allows young people to
____________________________________________.
However, it can also lead to ____________________________________________. For example,
____________________________________________. This may result in
____________________________________________.
On balance, although ____________________________________________, the most significant
effect is ____________________________________________ because
____________________________________________. Therefore,
____________________________________________.
CAE Grade A – Student Checklist
Use this checklist to make sure your essay meets the CAE Grade A standards.
**1. Content (Task Achievement)**
■ I have answered the question fully and discussed two of the given points.
■ I have clearly expressed which point is more significant.
■ My examples and arguments are relevant and well-developed.
**2. Communicative Achievement (Style & Register)**
■ My tone is formal and objective (no contractions or personal anecdotes).
■ I have used appropriate linking phrases to guide the reader.
■ The essay reads as a balanced, academic discussion.
**3. Organisation (Structure & Cohesion)**
■ I used clear paragraphing: Introduction, two body paragraphs, Conclusion.
■ Each paragraph contains one main idea, supported by examples.
■ I used connectors and reference words (this, these, such) correctly.
**4. Language (Range & Accuracy)**
■ I used a wide range of vocabulary, including abstract nouns and formal collocations.
■ My grammar is accurate and varied (complex sentences, passive forms).
■ I checked my spelling and punctuation carefully.
**Final Check:**
■ My essay is between 220–260 words.
■ I re-read it for flow, precision, and clarity before finishing.