In the previous article we discussed how to determine whether you are ready for the Lesen and Hören sections. But what about the writing part – Schreiben?
Writing is often the biggest challenge in international exams at higher levels: Goethe-Zertifikat B2, C1, C2, TestDaF digital, ÖSD, telc. While speaking and listening skills can still be improved through immersion or courses, the ability to formulate ideas clearly and structurally in writing requires systematic practice.
At the beginning of language learning, many students do not even think about the fact that they will eventually need to use the language in writing. They focus mainly on communication. This is a strategic mistake. All international certification exams include a Schreiben section, and unresolved gaps from previous levels often become a serious obstacle. But if you must pass the exam, how can you understand whether you are ready for the writing section?
Preparing for the Writing Exam: 4 Essential Steps
Regardless of the level (A2, B1, B2, C1 or TestDaF), preparation can be structured into four key stages.
1. Study the exam format
You need to know how many tasks the exam includes, what type of tasks they are, the required length, and the formal requirements. Without understanding the format, even a strong language level does not guarantee success.
2. Work on typical phrases and structure
At lower levels (A2-B1), preparation is partly based on learning standard language patterns. At B2-C1 level and TestDaF, this alone is no longer sufficient, but structural formulas remain important. You can memorize “ready-made” phrases that include the grammar and vocabulary required at your level:
- introduction to the topic
- stating your own position
- arguments for and against
- analysis of statistics
- a logical conclusion
- polite formulas (for formal letters)
Well-chosen phrases help you avoid grammatical mistakes, demonstrate level-appropriate vocabulary, ensure logical structure, and reduce exam stress because you already know how to begin and develop your text.
3. Understand the assessment criteria
This is where most candidates lose points when they write “freely” or “the way they were taught at school.” Assessment usually includes:
- task achievement,
- structure and coherence,
- vocabulary,
- grammatical accuracy,
- stylistic appropriateness.
You must clearly understand what you gain points for and what causes you to lose them. For example, in some exams grammar plays a secondary role (e.g. TestDaF), while in others grammatical accuracy is essential.
4. Practice regularly with correction and feedback
Writing cannot be mastered through theory alone. You need:
- regular mock tasks,
- assessment based on official criteria,
- detailed error analysis,
- a strategy for improving weak areas.
The first step can be done independently. However, the other three require guidance from a teacher who specializes in the specific exam and understands how it is assessed.
Where can you get high-quality preparation for Schreiben?
On our website, you can take structured preparation courses for:
- Goethe-Zertifikat B2 (course in Ukrainian)
- TestDaF digital (course in German)
The courses offer a comprehensive approach: we thoroughly analyze the current exam format, provide ready-made phrases with appropriate grammar and vocabulary, and explain all assessment criteria, helping you build an effective strategy for confidently achieving the highest possible score.
Can artificial intelligence assess your writing?
Artificial intelligence can detect grammatical mistakes. However, AI:
- does not provide correct scoring according to official descriptors,
- does not take into account the specific nature of a particular exam,
- does not identify your strategic weaknesses as a candidate.
Expert assessment is not just about correcting mistakes - it is about evaluating your text according to official criteria. On the website, you will find mock writing tasks for Goethe-Zertifikat B1, Goethe-Zertifikat B2 and TestDaF digital with correction, final scoring, and detailed feedback.
When should you register for the exam?
If your results consistently reach 75% or higher, you are ready to register for the exam. If your score is lower, you should continue training. This is not a failure - it is a signal for systematic improvement.
Conclusion
The writing section of an international language exam is not a test of your “talent for writing.” It is a test of structured preparation, understanding of criteria, and the ability to work within the format. When you know the structure, have the right tools, and receive professional feedback - your result becomes predictable. And a predictable result means confidence on exam day.
