Tips for writing compositions

1. This advice could be given for every single subject, but even more so for this one in particular: it’s not possible to learn a foreign language in a just a few days before the exam. More than with any other subject, learning a foreign language is a matter of discipline and constancy.
2. Get copies of past exams and make sure you are fully familiar with the structure of the exam.
3. Find websites on topics you’re interested in. They’ll be more interesting to read about and it’s a great way to expand your vocabulary. Very important: read out.
4. Don’t ty to translate the text word by word. Read the text carefully and remember the importance of the context.
5. The composition will be based on current events. Make sure you master the key vocabulary.
6. When you write the composition, use a variety of structures and verb tenses.
7. Don’t try to translate directly from your mother tongue.
8. Don’t try to make up words or take risks with a new word just in case.
9. You may use set phrases but do it in a natural way. If you use all the expressions you know at once, your text will feel unnatural and awkward.
10. Once you’ve finished writing, double check everything. You may have made grammar or spelling mistakes. Be especially careful with prepositions and verb tenses.
10+1. Don’t quit studying languages. Remember: you’ll always need them.