Explanation
Exercises
B2 Pre-Advanced Writing · Lesson 7

Write a Detailed Email Giving Advice

Good advice is persuasive without sounding controlling: it considers the person's situation, explains consequences, and leaves room for choice.

B2 Pre-AdvancedDetailed informal advice email35 min180–190 words
Lesson progress
Explanation · 1 / 4
Study the model carefully: both practice exercises ask questions about this exact text.
Learning objective

You will learn to organise an informal advice email, use tactful modal language, compare options, justify recommendations, and suggest practical next steps.

Model text

Hi Sam, Thanks for telling me about the job offer. I can see why you are unsure: the new position sounds more interesting, but moving to Bristol would affect much more than your work. Before you decide, I would separate the question into two parts. First, ask whether the job itself is genuinely better or simply new. If the responsibilities will help you develop skills you actually want, that is a strong reason to consider it. On the other hand, if the main attraction is the title, the excitement may disappear quite quickly. I would also think carefully about the move. You could visit Bristol for a weekend, check typical rents, and imagine an ordinary Tuesday there rather than a short holiday. If possible, ask the company whether you can work remotely for the first month. That would give you time to test the role before making every change at once. Whatever you choose, I would not rush because they want an answer quickly. A good opportunity should still make sense after you have examined the practical details. Call me if you want to talk it through. Maya

How to write

1
Acknowledge why the decision is difficult
2
Separate the problem into useful questions
3
Give advice with reasons rather than commands
4
Suggest a practical way to reduce uncertainty
5
Respect the reader’s final choice

Useful language

I can see why...Before you decide,...On the other hand,...You could...If possible,...Whatever you choose,...

B2 Pre-Advanced focus: Develop ideas with specific evidence, varied linking, precise vocabulary, and a register appropriate to the text type.

Exercises:
1
2
3
Exercise 1 · Language in the model text

Write a Detailed Email Giving Advice

Read the model text closely. Analyse the exact grammar, vocabulary, linking, stance, and register choices.

Answer questions about this lesson’s unique model text.
Exercise 1 · 2 / 4
You need at least 5 correct answers out of 6.
Which excerpt most clearly performs this writing move: “Acknowledge why the decision is difficult”?
What is the main writing function of “On the other hand” in “On the other hand, if the main attraction is the title, the excitement may disappear quite quickly.”?
Which excerpt best demonstrates this writing move: “Give advice with reasons rather than commands”?
Why does the writer use “If possible” in “If possible, ask the company whether you can work remotely for the first month.”?
What does “If possible, ask the company whether you can work remotely for the first month.” mainly achieve in this model?
Why is “Whatever you choose, I would not rush because they want an answer quickly.” effective near the end of the text?
Exercise 2 · Structure and development

Write a Detailed Email Giving Advice

Read the model text closely. Analyse how its ideas are ordered, developed, connected, and concluded.

Answer questions about this lesson’s unique model text.
Exercise 2 · 3 / 4
You need at least 5 correct answers out of 6.
Where does “Write a Detailed Email Giving Advice” first establish its central situation or purpose?
Which detail does the most work to develop the second stage of the text: “Separate the problem into useful questions”?
Why does “I would also think carefully about the move.” follow the preceding idea “On the other hand, if the main attraction is the title, the excitement may disappear quite qui…”?
What structural role does “If possible, ask the company whether you can work remotely for the first month.” play in this model?
Why does the model place “Whatever you choose, I would not rush because they want an answer quickly.” near the end?
Which sequence best represents the organisation of “Write a Detailed Email Giving Advice”?
Exercise 3 · Independent writing

Write a Detailed Email Giving Advice

Apply the writing skills you analysed in this lesson’s model text.

Complete the writing task independently.
Exercise 3 · 4 / 4
Write 180–190 words. Up to 200 words is accepted.
Your task

Give detailed, balanced advice that considers options, consequences, and practical next steps. Use your own ideas and examples; do not copy the model text.

  • Start with a natural personal greeting
  • Give at least three pieces of advice or possible action
  • Support advice with reasons, conditions, or consequences
  • Consider more than one side or practical factor
  • Invite further discussion or response
  • Finish with a natural personal closing
I can see why...Before you decide,...On the other hand,...You could...If possible,...Whatever you choose,...
Your writing
0 words · Target: 180–190

Your draft is saved automatically on this device.

Quick check
•Write about 180–190 words
•Start with a natural personal greeting
•Give at least three pieces of advice or possible action
•Support advice with reasons, conditions, or consequences
•Consider more than one side or practical factor
•Invite further discussion or response
•Finish with a natural personal closing
•Use at least 8 clear sentences
AI feedback

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