OET Writing: Referral Letter Essentials 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: In an OET referral letter, what should the first paragraph typically establish?
- The purpose of the letter and patient identification (Correct answer)
- The discharge medication list
- The hospital billing details
- The writer's personal qualifications
Correct answer: The purpose of the letter and patient identification
The opening paragraph states the reason for writing and identifies the patient.
Question 2: Which salutation is most appropriate when the recipient's name is provided as 'Dr Jane Smith'?
- Dear Dr Smith, (Correct answer)
- To whom it may concern,
- Hi Jane,
- Dear Sir/Madam,
Correct answer: Dear Dr Smith,
Use 'Dear' plus title and surname when the name is known.
Question 3: What is the recommended word count range for an OET referral letter?
- 180-200 words (Correct answer)
- 50-80 words
- 350-400 words
- 600+ words
Correct answer: 180-200 words
OET letters are typically expected to be around 180-200 words.
Question 4: When the case notes give the patient's age and the letter is to a specialist, the age is best mentioned where?
- In the introduction with patient identification (Correct answer)
- Only in the final paragraph
- Omitted entirely
- In the subject line only
Correct answer: In the introduction with patient identification
Key identifiers like age belong in the opening sentence introducing the patient.
Question 5: Which closing is correct when you opened with 'Dear Dr Smith,'?
- Yours sincerely, (Correct answer)
- Yours faithfully,
- Best wishes,
- Cheers,
Correct answer: Yours sincerely,
A named recipient takes 'Yours sincerely'.
Question 6: What should you do with case-note information that is irrelevant to the referral's purpose?
- Omit it to keep the letter focused (Correct answer)
- Include all of it for completeness
- List it in bullet points at the end
- Add it to the subject line
Correct answer: Omit it to keep the letter focused
Selecting only relevant information is a key OET writing skill.
Question 7: The main request of a referral letter should be expressed using what kind of language?
- Polite, clear request phrasing such as 'I would appreciate your assessment' (Correct answer)
- Demanding commands
- Vague hints
- Medical abbreviations only
Correct answer: Polite, clear request phrasing such as 'I would appreciate your assessment'
Courteous, explicit request language conveys purpose appropriately.
OET Writing: Referral Letter Essentials 2
In an OET referral letter, what should the first paragraph typically establish?