Writing Task: Common Mistakes

Many candidates lose marks by misreading the reader and purpose. Underline the task instructions and keep every paragraph focused on that single scenario.

Mixing letter and email conventions—such as wrong salutation or sign-off—is a frequent slip. Memorise one reliable template for each genre you might face.

Over-long introductions eat word count without adding clinical value. Move quickly to the reason for writing and the key actions requested.

Vague clinical detail weakens your case. Use specific, plausible information from the case notes rather than generic statements.

Grammar and cohesion still matter: paragraph breaks, referencing, and consistent tense help examiners follow your argument with less effort.

Always allow two minutes for a proofread pass. Catching spelling of drug names and patient details can save your grade.

Practise with expert feedback so you learn which mistakes you repeat; targeted correction beats writing ten unchecked letters.