KET - Key English Writing: Replying to an Email Questions and Answers

Question 1

Read this email from your friend, Alex:

Hi,
I'm having a party next Saturday at my house. Can you come? It starts at 7 p.m. Please tell me if you can bring some snacks.

Which is the BEST reply to Alex?

Accepted Answer

Dear Alex, Thanks for the invitation! I'd love to come on Saturday. I can bring some crisps and nuts. See you then!

Answer

This answer is the best because it uses a friendly and informal tone suitable for an email to a friend. It clearly accepts the invitation, confirms understanding of the day, offers to bring specific snacks, and uses an appropriate closing. The other options are either too formal, grammatically incorrect, or unnatural.

Question 2

You are replying to an email from your English teacher about a missed class. Which of the following is the most appropriate opening?

Accepted Answer

Dear Mr. Smith,

Answer

'Dear Mr. Smith,' is the most appropriate and respectful way to begin an email to a teacher. It is formal and polite. The other options are too informal for this situation.

Question 3

Your friend Sam has emailed to ask for help with his homework. He asks: 'Can you help me with my maths homework tonight?' Which reply correctly and politely says NO?

Accepted Answer

Hi Sam, Thanks for asking, but I'm really sorry, I can't help tonight. I have to study for a test. How about tomorrow?

Answer

This is the best answer because it is polite and gives a reason for refusing. It also suggests an alternative time, which is helpful and friendly. The other options are too direct and could sound rude.

Question 4

In the KET Writing task, you need to reply to an email and answer three specific points. What is the most important thing to do in your reply?

Accepted Answer

Make sure you answer all three points from the original email.

Answer

The primary goal of the KET email writing task is to show you can communicate effectively. This means you must address all the questions or points mentioned in the prompt to provide a complete and relevant response.

Question 5

Which of the following is the best way to end an informal email to a friend you will see soon?

Accepted Answer

See you soon!

Answer

'See you soon!' is a friendly and common closing for an informal email to a friend, especially when you have plans to meet. The other options are more formal and less suitable for this context.

KET - Key English Test Practice Test

KET - Key English Test Practice Test

KET - Key English Writing: Replying to an Email Questions and Answers