C2 Proficiency Exam Guide
Writing Paper Paper: Part One
Contents
Overview
What is it? A compulsory essay summarising and evaluating key points from two texts.
Word count: 240-280 words
Time: About 45 minutes recommended
Input: Two texts of approximately 100 words each on a related theme
How to Approach
- Read both texts carefully, identifying the main points in each
- Note how the texts relate to each other - they may present contrasting or complementary views
- Plan how to integrate points from both texts into your essay
- Add your own relevant ideas and evaluation
- Write in a clear academic style, using sophisticated language appropriately
What Examiners Look For
Your essay needs to show you can:
- Summarise complex ideas from different sources
- Evaluate arguments and evidence effectively
- Integrate information from both texts smoothly
- Add relevant ideas of your own
- Write with sophisticated control of language
Tips
- Avoid copying language directly from the texts - use your own words
- Make connections between the ideas in both texts
- Support your evaluation with clear reasoning
- Maintain an academic writing style throughout
How It Looks
Student Suggestion
"I find it helpful to underline the key arguments in each text and draw arrows showing how they connect. This helps me create a well-organised essay that covers all the main points." - Victoria Palmer
Practice Exercises
Practice Writing Part 1 here: C2 Proficiency: Writing Part 1 Exercises
