Writing Simple Messages and Postcards: The Basics of Expression

In the TEF and TCF Writing sections (specifically Task 1 of the TCF), you are often asked to write a short, informal message. This could be a postcard to a friend, an invitation to a party, or a quick thank-you note. These tasks test your ability to use the Informal Register, correct Tenses (usually present or future), and basic Social Conventions.

In this guide, we master the art of the short French message.

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1. The Structure of an Informal Message

A postcard or short message has four parts:

1. The Greeting: Salut ! / Coucou !
2. The Opening: “J'espère que tu vas bien.” (I hope you're doing well).
3. The Core: The main news or information.
4. The Closing: “Bises / À bientôt.”

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2. Salutations and First Lines

• “Salut [Prénom],”
• “Cher / Chère [Prénom],”
• “Comment ça va ?”
• “Je t'écris pour te dire que...”: I'm writing to tell you that...
• “Je t'écris depuis [LIEU]”: I'm writing to you from... (Postcard style).

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3. Describing an Experience (Postcard Logic)

When writing from vacation:

• Location: “Je suis en vacances à Nice.”
• Weather: “Il fait un temps magnifique !”
• Activities: “On fait beaucoup de randonnée et on mange super bien.”
• Feelings: “C'est vraiment ressourçant.” (It’s really rejuvenating).

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4. Invitations and Arrangements

• “Ça te dirait de... ?”: Would you like to...?
• “Je t'invite à mon anniversaire.”
• “Tiens-moi au courant !”: Let me know!
• “On se voit quand ?”: When are we seeing each other?

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5. Strategic Tips for Task 1 (Short Writing)

1. Be Concise: Don't exceed the word limit (usually 60-120 words).
2. Respect the Register: Use "Tu" and avoid overly formal language.
3. Punctuation: French uses exclamation marks to show enthusiasm (“À bientôt !”).
4. Check Agreements: Even in a short text, “Je suis allé” vs “Je suis allée” matters!

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6. Cultural Note: "La Poste" and Digital Greetings

While physical postcards are still loved in France, many "Postcards" in the exam are presented as social media posts or SMS. However, the tone remains the same: warm and direct. In Quebec, "Salut" is used both for "Hi" and "Bye," making it a versatile tool for your messages.

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7. Mastery through PrepMyFrench

Word Count Drills:

We give you a prompt and you have to write exactly 80 words. This trains your internal "Word Meter."

AI Writing Evaluation:

Select the "Postcard from Paris" topic.

• Task: Write a 100-word message to a friend about your trip.
• Focus: The AI will check for informal flow and verb tenses. You get a score out of 20 and specific corrections.

Vocabulary Drills:

Use our Social and Travel Deck to learn terms like séjour, paysage, météo, convivial, and inoubliable.

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Conclusion

A simple message is the first bridge between two people. By mastering the structure and tone in this guide, you guarantee a perfect score on the introductory writing tasks of the TEF/TCF. Short, sweet, and accurate—that is the key to success.

Next Topic: Professional polish! Read about Writing Formal Letters and Emails.

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