TCF Canada Writing Tasks Explained: Word Limits & Tips (2025 Guide)

The Writing section (Expression Écrite) of the TCF Canada exam is 60 minutes, with three tasks of increasing difficulty. Each task tests your ability to describe, explain, recount, compare, and express opinions with clarity and structure.

You must write a short message — similar to a note, text, or email. You will write to one person or a small group (e.g., friend, neighbour, professor, coworker).

Show that you can describe, retell an event, or explain an idea in a simple, clear way. The instructions always specify the context and recipient.

️ Minimum: 60 words
️ Maximum: 120 words

You will write a longer text such as:

• an article
  
  

• a message to several people
  
  

• a report
  
  

• a commentary
  
  

• a formal or semi-formal letter
  
  

This time, the text may be intended for a public audience or a group of friends.

Show you can:

• recount an experience or event
  
  

• give your point of view
  
  

• express opinions or arguments
  
  

• fulfill the communication goal (request, recommendation, complaint, appreciation, etc.)
  
  

️ Minimum: 120 words
️ Maximum: 150 words

You will read two short texts about the same social issue (e.g., technology, environment, education) but with different viewpoints.

️ Minimum: 120 words
️ Maximum: 180 words

You must:

1. First paragraph: Compare the key ideas from both documents
   
   

2. Second paragraph: Present your own opinion on the topic
   
   

3. Support your opinion with logical arguments and/or examples
   
   

1. Do all three tasks have strict word limits? Yes, very strict. Each task has a specific minimum and maximum word count. If you write outside these limits (even by a few words), your task may be disqualified and receive a score of zero.

2. Can I use informal language (tu, slang, etc.)? Only in Task 1, and only if the instructions say you are writing to a friend or family member. For Task 2 and Task 3, you must use standard or formal French (vous).

3. Are the documents in Task 3 difficult to read? They are generally short and written in clear French (social articles or opinions), but the challenge is identifying the nuance and the difference between the two opposing points of view.

4. Do I need to give personal examples? Yes.

• Task 2: The whole task is about recounting a personal experience, so personal details are required.

• Task 3: While you are discussing a general topic, using a personal or specific example is an excellent way to support your arguments and prove your point.

5. Is the Writing section graded by humans? Yes. Your test is sent to France Éducation international in Paris, where it is evaluated by two independent human examiners. They look at your vocabulary, grammar, structure, and how well you followed the instructions.