How Not to Write a CAE Report – Common Mistakes Analysis
1 Introduction
Under exam pressure, students often forget the key requirements of formal report writing. This example shows how even capable students can produce inappropriate responses when they fail to consider proper register, structure, and format. Writing Coach Jenny will analyze a poor CAE report written by Maria to highlight common pitfalls.
Key Terms
- register
- the level of formality and style appropriate for a particular type of writing
- structure
- the way content is organized and presented in a piece of writing
- format
- the standard layout and presentation requirements for a specific type of document
2 Cambridge CAE Report – Poor Writing Example
To: Mr Johnson
From: Maria
Subject: Student facilities
Hi! I wanted to tell you what I think about our college facilities and stuff. Me and my friends did a survey and loads of students are really unhappy with everything.
Firstly the cafeteria is totally rubbish because the food is gross and expensive. Also the gym equipment is broken and nobody fixes it which is so annoying!!! The library needs more computers because there’s always queues.
I think you should definitely do something about this asap. Maybe get better food and fix the gym? Also the library should be open 24/7 like other colleges.
Anyway that’s what I found out from talking to people. Hope you can sort it out!
Bye!
Maria
Key Terms
- facilities
- services, equipment, or buildings provided for a particular purpose
- assessment
- evaluation or judgment about something
3 How Many Errors Did You Spot?
Before reading the detailed analysis, take a moment to identify the problems in Maria’s report. Consider aspects such as tone, recommendations, and overall task achievement. How would you improve the format and findings presentation?
Key Terms
- tone
- the general character or attitude conveyed in writing
- recommendations
- formal suggestions for improvement or action
- task achievement
- how well the writing meets the requirements of the assignment
- findings
- information discovered through research or investigation