CELPIP Writing Task 2: how to answer the survey

Task 2 describes a situation and asks for your opinion in a survey with two options. You have 26 minutes and should write 150–200 words.

What the raters want to see

The same four dimensions as Task 1 apply: Content/Coherence, Vocabulary, Readability and Task Fulfillment. For a survey, completeness means a clear choice and well-developed reasons. A balanced essay that never decides is a weak answer.

A structure that works

1. Your choice in the first sentence. “I would prefer the community garden to the parking lot, for two main reasons.”
2. Reason 1 with a concrete example. Explain the reason behind the reason: who benefits, how, and why it matters.
3. Reason 2 with a concrete example. A different angle, such as cost, health, time or community.
4. Optional: why not the other option. One or two sentences that acknowledge it fairly.
5. A short conclusion that restates the choice.

Developing reasons, not just listing them

“It is cheaper” is a point. “It is cheaper, so the city could use the savings to keep the library open on Sundays, which many working families need” is a developed reason. Raters reward the second.

Useful frames

• “The main reason I prefer … is that …”
• “For example, …”, “As a result, …”, “This means that …”
• “Although … has some advantages, …”
• “Overall, I believe … would benefit …”

Common mistakes

• Not choosing, or switching sides halfway through.
• Three thin reasons instead of two developed ones.
• Memorized general sentences that do not fit the situation in the prompt.
• Running out of time before checking grammar and word count.