The writing experience
What will you
be asked to write?
Three task types give you different reasons to write: a description of a photo, two connected responses, and a short essay. Each has its own timer. You will also write a summary within Interactive Listening.
These original PrepEx examples explain the format. They are untimed teaching excerpts, not official DET questions or model answers to memorise.
01Describe the scene clearly
Write About the Photo
Write sentences that explain what you can see in a photo.
- On the test
- 3 photos
- Time allowed
- 1 minute each
What to focus onStart with the main scene, then describe the people, actions, and objects you can see.
Look at the photo. What would you tell someone who cannot see it?
Explore a possible description for Write About the Photo
One way to begin
A person in a blue shirt is watering plants on a balcony. Several pots sit beside the railing, with a wooden chair to the left. Beyond the railing, the roofs of nearby buildings are visible.
Why this works
The description starts with the main action, then connects visible details with position words. It gives the reader a clear picture without inventing the person’s name, job or reasons for being there.
The photo stays visible while you write. Use the minute to describe it in connected sentences and check your wording.
02Answer both questions clearly
Interactive Writing
Write an answer to a question, then answer a second question about the same topic.
- On the test
- 1 set of 2 questions
- Time allowed
- 30-second preparation; 5 minutes + 3 minutes
What to focus onExplain your first answer, then add new ideas when you answer the follow-up question.
The follow-up builds on your first response. Your first answer remains visible during Part 2, so you can extend an idea without repeating the whole response.
Part 1 · 5 minutes after preparation
A community learning center is considering asking every new member to attend one welcome event. Do you think this is a useful policy? Explain your view.
Explore an opening & a follow-up
A possible opening to Part 1
A welcome event could help new members feel comfortable, but I would keep it optional. Someone who works in the evening may find a compulsory event difficult to attend. A useful introduction should make joining easier, without adding another obligation.
Part 2 · 3 minutes · One possible follow-up
Explain how the center could respect personal choice while still helping new members feel included.
A possible opening to Part 2
The centre could offer a choice between a short tour, a small group event and an online introduction. Each option would explain how to join activities and where to ask for help. This would let people take part in a way that suits their schedule.
Why this works
The first excerpt gives a view and a concrete reason. The second proposes ways to respect personal choice, answering the new question instead of repeating the argument. A different opinion can work equally well when it is explained.
These excerpts show how the responses connect. They are not complete answers for the full writing time.
How the task unfolds
One topic.
A second direction.
- 00:30
Read and prepare
Understand the first question and choose the points you want to develop.
- 05:00
Write your first response
Answer the prompt and support your ideas. Check this response before continuing.
- 03:00
Respond to the follow-up
Read the new direction and add relevant detail. There is no separate preparation period for Part 2.
03Explain your ideas with details
Writing Sample
Write about a topic. Your answer is shared with the institutions receiving your test results.
- On the test
- 1 prompt
- Time allowed
- 30-second preparation; 5 minutes
What to focus onGive a clear answer and explain it with reasons, details, or examples.
On the real test, the Writing Sample and its topic are shared with institutions receiving your results. Keep your answer relevant and easy to follow.
Consider your view and the examples you could use.
Do you think technology makes students more independent learners? Give reasons for your opinion and include examples from education or daily life.
Explore a possible opening for Writing Sample
An idea with support
Technology can help students learn independently when it gives them more control over how they study. For example, a recorded lesson allows someone to pause at a difficult point and try an exercise before continuing. However, access to information is not enough on its own: students still need to decide which sources to trust.
Why this works
The opening answers the question, develops a specific example and introduces a limitation. The next paragraph could explain how learners judge information, keeping that discussion connected to independence.
One possible opening, not a complete five-minute response. Develop your own view with reasons and examples.
Read your work with a purpose
What makes the writing clear?
Answer & develop
Cover every part of the prompt. Give the reader a reason, a detail or an example that explains your point.
Make it easy to follow
Put connected ideas together. Use clear links between sentences and paragraphs, without repeating the same point.
Choose words with care
Use vocabulary and grammar that express your meaning accurately. Leave a moment to check unclear sentences and spelling.
From examples to your own words
Start with one task.
Give it your full attention.
Try a timed response, read the feedback, and choose one thing to improve in your next answer.
Based on the current test format
Counts and timings checked September 22, 2026 against the official DET Test Structure and task instructions. Formats can change; check Duolingo’s guidance before test day.