Essential Vocabulary for Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE) Writing Task 1

If you're preparing for the Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE) exam, you know that Writing Task 1 often asks for a formal report or proposal. One of the key ways to impress the examiner and hit a high band score is by using precise, topic-appropriate vocabulary.This blog post will give you the tools to sound professional, structured, and advanced—just what you need to stand out at C1 level.

What is Writing Task 1 in the CAE?

You may be asked to write a:- Report- Proposal- (Occasionally) an email or letterIt will typically involve analyzing a situation or set of data, making suggestions, or presenting the results of a survey or investigation. You’ll need to use formal language and organize your ideas clearly.

Useful Vocabulary by Section

1. Introduction Phrases

- The aim/purpose of this report is to...- This report is intended to...- This proposal outlines/suggests...- The following report evaluates...- This report has been compiled in response to...

2. Describing Research / Findings

- According to the findings...- It was found that...- A significant number of respondents indicated that...- The majority/minority of those surveyed believed that...- Feedback suggested that...- It emerged that...

3. Making Suggestions / Recommendations

- It is recommended that...- I would strongly suggest...- One possible solution would be to...- In order to address this issue, it is advisable to...- Consideration should be given to...- This could be achieved by...- It might be beneficial to...

4. Linking Ideas

- In addition / Moreover / Furthermore- However / On the other hand / Nevertheless- As a result / Consequently / Therefore- Although / Even though / Whereas- For instance / For example / Such as

5. Formal Vocabulary for Tone

Avoid casual or informal words. Use these instead:

Informal → FormalA lot of → A significant number ofGood → Effective / BeneficialBad → Ineffective / ProblematicThink → Believe / ConsiderGet → Obtain / ReceiveHelp → Assist / Support

Sample Sentence Transformations

1. I think we should get more people involved.

2. It is recommended that greater participation be encouraged.

3. A lot of people said the library was good.

4. A significant number of respondents expressed satisfaction with the library facilities.

5. We need to fix the computers because they're bad.

6. It is necessary to upgrade the outdated computer equipment due to frequent technical issues.

   
   

Top Tip for High Scores

Use precise, topic-specific nouns and verbs:- Implement strategies instead of do things- Evaluate performance instead of look at how it works- Raise awareness instead of tell peopleThe more specific and accurate your language, the more advanced your writing will sound.

Final Checklist Before You Submit

• Did you write in formal register?

• Did you use appropriate section headings?

• Did you include a clear purpose, findings, and recommendations?

• Did you use varied linking words and structures?

• Did you proofread for grammar and vocabulary accuracy?

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