FCE Letter and Email Writing

Question 1

In FCE Writing, which part gives candidates the option to write a letter or email?

Accepted Answer

Part 2 (candidate's choice)

Answer

FCE Writing Part 2 presents a choice of task types, one of which may be a letter or email.

Question 2

Which closing phrase correctly pairs with 'Dear Sir/Madam' in a formal letter?

Accepted Answer

Yours faithfully,

Answer

'Yours faithfully' is the correct close when you opened with 'Dear Sir/Madam' and do not know the recipient's name.

Question 3

What is a key language feature that distinguishes informal from formal emails in FCE?

Accepted Answer

Informal emails use contractions such as 'I'm' and 'we've'

Answer

Contractions are a hallmark of informal register; formal writing avoids them to maintain a professional tone.

Question 4

What is the recommended word count for a Part 2 task in FCE Writing?

Accepted Answer

140–190 words

Answer

FCE Part 2 tasks require 140–190 words — long enough to develop ideas but concise enough to stay on task.

Question 5

Which salutation is correct when writing a formal letter to someone named Mr. Johnson?

Accepted Answer

Dear Mr. Johnson,

Answer

'Dear Mr. Johnson,' is the standard formal salutation when you know the recipient's title and surname.

Cambridge FCE Practice Test