FCE Writing Tips: How to Score a B2 First Grade A
April 2, 2026
Master the FCE Writing Paper
The B2 First (FCE) writing paper has two parts. You have 80 minutes to write two texts of 140–190 words each. Part 1 is always an essay, and Part 2 gives you a choice between an article, email/letter, report, or review.
Here are the strategies that consistently help students score high marks.
1. Plan Before You Write
Spend 5 minutes planning each text. Write down:
- Your main argument or position
- Two or three supporting points
- Key vocabulary you want to include
- Linking phrases for each paragraph
Students who plan consistently score higher on Organisation (one of the four marking criteria).
2. Structure Your Essay Properly
A strong FCE essay follows this structure:
Introduction (2–3 sentences): State the topic and your opinion. Don't start with "I am going to write about..." — that wastes words.
Body paragraph 1 (4–5 sentences): First argument with an example.
Body paragraph 2 (4–5 sentences): Second argument or counterargument.
Conclusion (2–3 sentences): Summarise your position. Use a different phrase from your introduction.
3. Use Advanced Vocabulary (But Naturally)
Examiners look for B2-level vocabulary used correctly. Instead of basic words, try:
| Basic | B2 Level | |-------|----------| | good | beneficial, advantageous | | bad | detrimental, harmful | | important | crucial, essential | | think | consider, believe, argue | | also | furthermore, moreover, in addition |
Warning: Don't memorise phrases you don't understand. Examiners can spot forced vocabulary, and incorrect usage scores lower than simple but correct language.
4. Master Linking Words
Cohesion and coherence matter. Use these connectors:
- Adding: Furthermore, Moreover, In addition, What is more
- Contrasting: However, Nevertheless, On the other hand, Despite
- Cause/Effect: Therefore, Consequently, As a result, Due to
- Examples: For instance, Such as, To illustrate
- Concluding: In conclusion, To sum up, All things considered
5. Check the Word Count
Aim for 160–180 words. Under 140 words will lose marks. Over 190 words means you're probably including unnecessary information.
6. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not answering the question: Read the prompt twice. Underline the key points you must address.
- Using informal language in essays: "I think it's cool" won't work. Use "I believe this approach is beneficial."
- Forgetting paragraphs: No wall of text. Each paragraph = one main idea.
- Spelling of common words: "environment", "government", "necessary", "accommodation" — practise these.
7. Practice With AI Feedback
The fastest way to improve is to write regularly and get specific feedback on grammar, vocabulary, structure, and cohesion. AI tools can give you instant scores and highlight exactly where you need to improve — areas a self-review often misses.
Final Tip
Write at least 3 essays per week in exam conditions (timed, no dictionary). Review the feedback, note your recurring mistakes, and focus on fixing one weakness at a time.
Preparing for the B2 First? Start practising with AI feedback →