Occupational English Test (OET) Writing Tips

What to Expect

• Task: Write a letter (e.g., referral, discharge, transfer, or information letter).

• Time: 45 minutes (5 minutes to read case notes, 40 minutes to write).

• Audience: A healthcare professional (e.g., GP, specialist, nurse, caregiver).

• Word Count: Around 180–200 words.

  
  

  Step-by-Step Approach

  1. Understand the Case Notes

  • Read Carefully: Spend the first 5 minutes analyzing the case notes.

  • Identify Key Details: Focus on:

    • Patient demographics (e.g., name, age).

    • Reason for writing (e.g., referral, progress update).

    • Relevant medical history.

    • Current condition and treatments.

    • Specific requests or recommendations.

  2. Plan Your Letter

  • Organize the information logically:

    • Introduction: Clearly state the purpose.

    • Main Body: Provide key details (history, current condition, relevant social factors).

    • Conclusion: Highlight actions required or recommendations.

    Structure of the Letter

    A. Introduction

    • State the purpose in a concise, formal tone.

    • Example:

      
      

      "I am writing to refer Mrs. Anna Lee, a 67-year-old patient, for further assessment and management of her chronic back pain."

    B. Body Paragraphs

    • Paragraph 1: Relevant medical history and background.

    • Paragraph 2: Current condition, treatment, and any test results.

    • Paragraph 3: Social or personal factors affecting the patient's health (if relevant).

    C. Conclusion

    • Summarize the key information and specify the required action.

    • Example:

      
      

      "I would appreciate it if you could assess and provide ongoing management for her condition."

Key Tips

Content Selection

• Include Relevant Information: Tailor the information to the reader's needs.

• Omit Irrelevant Details: Focus on what is necessary for decision-making.

Language Use

• Use formal, professional language.

• Avoid unnecessary jargon but use healthcare terminology appropriately.

• Example:

  • Instead of: “She has a sore throat,”

    
    

    Use: “She presents with pharyngitis symptoms.”

Grammar and Cohesion

• Ensure your letter flows logically:

  • Use linking words: "Furthermore," "However," "Therefore."

• Pay attention to grammar and punctuation.

Time Management

• Spend 5 minutes planning, 35 minutes writing, and 5 minutes proofreading.

• Avoid exceeding the word limit.

Proofreading

• Check for:

  • Spelling and grammar errors.

  • Clarity and accuracy.

  • Adherence to the task and tone.

Example of OET Referral Letter Outline

Date:

Recipient’s Name: Job Title (e.g., Dr. XYZ, Consultant)

Address:

Subject: Referral Letter for [Patient’s Name, Age]

Dear Dr. [Recipient's Last Name],

I am writing to refer [Patient’s Full Name], a [patient’s age]-year-old [gender] who has been under my care for [specific condition/reason].

[Paragraph 1: Summarize relevant history.]

[Paragraph 2: Describe current condition, test results, and treatment.]

[Paragraph 3: Include social/psychological factors if relevant.]

I would appreciate your expert evaluation and further management of this patient. Please do not hesitate to contact me for additional information.

Yours sincerely,

[Your Full Name]

[Your Role, e.g., Registered Nurse, Physiotherapist]