OET Writing: Referral Letter Essentials 4

Question 1

Which is a common error that lowers OET writing scores in referral letters?

Accepted Answer

Copying case notes word-for-word without rephrasing

Answer

Lifting notes verbatim shows poor selection and language control.

Question 2

When the recipient is unknown (no name given), the correct closing is:

Accepted Answer

Yours faithfully,

Answer

An unnamed recipient ('Dear Sir/Madam') pairs with 'Yours faithfully'.

Question 3

Why is it important to state the reason for referral early?

Accepted Answer

So the busy recipient immediately understands the required action

Answer

An early clear purpose orients the reader to the needed action.

Question 4

Which detail is usually LEAST appropriate to include in a referral letter?

Accepted Answer

The writer's personal opinions about the patient's character

Answer

Subjective personal judgements are not relevant clinical content.

Question 5

How should abbreviations from the case notes be handled in the final letter?

Accepted Answer

Generally written out in full for clarity

Answer

Spelling out abbreviations improves clarity and demonstrates language control.

(OET) Occupational English Test Practice Test