Write an Email on the TOEFL: structure and examples

What you are asked to do

You read a short situation, such as a problem with a course, a request to a professor or a message to a classmate, and write an email that responds to it. The prompt usually lists the points your email must include.

A structure that always works

1. 01Greeting that fits the reader: "Dear Professor Lee," or "Hi Sam,".
2. 02One opening line that says why you are writing.
3. 03One short paragraph for each point in the prompt, in the same order.
4. 04A polite closing line and your name.

Getting the tone right

Match the reader. A professor or office needs a polite, slightly formal tone. A classmate can be friendly, but should still be clear and complete. The wrong tone costs points even when the grammar is perfect.

A short example

Dear Professor Lee, I am writing about the essay deadline for next week. I was ill on Monday and missed the class where the topic was explained. Would it be possible to have two extra days? I can send my notes from the reading so far. Thank you for considering this. Best regards, Sana

Notice what makes it work: one sentence says why she is writing, each point gets its own sentence, and the request is polite and specific.

Mistakes that cost the most

• Missing one of the points in the prompt. This costs more than a grammar slip.
• The wrong tone, for example "Hey" to a professor.
• Long sentences that lose control of grammar. Short and correct is safer.
• Running out of time because there was no plan.

How to practise

Write one email a day for a week, each to a different kind of reader. Check every one against the prompt’s points before you look at grammar.