TEF Writing Section A: The Perfect Email Guide (Format, Formulas, Examples)

Total Word Count: 1,800+ words

TEF Canada Expression Écrite Section A is deceptively simple on paper: write a short email (60-80 words) responding to a situation. But students fail this section constantly—not because their French is weak, but because they don't respect the email format and register conventions.

Writing "Salut! Merci pour ton message. À bientôt!" in a formal professional email = automatic failure.

This guide provides the complete email template system for all 5 common scenarios, with ready-to-use formulas.

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Part 1: The Email Anatomy (Non-Negotiable Structure)

Every email must have 5 parts in this exact order:

1. Subject Line (Objet)

Keep it specific and professional.

• Good: "Demande de renseignements concernant l'offre d'emploi"
• Bad: "Question" (Too vague).

2. Greeting (Formule d'appel)

Part 2: The 5 Common Scenarios (With Templates)

Scenario 1: Professional Inquiry (Demande de renseignements professionnels)

Situation: You saw a job ad and want more information.

Template:

Objet: Demande de renseignements concernant le poste de [Job Title]

Madame, Monsieur,

Je vous écris suite à votre annonce parue le [Date] concernant le poste de [Job]. J'aimerais obtenir des précisions sur les missions et les conditions de travail. Pourriez-vous également m'indiquer la date limite de candidature ?

Part 3: The Register Trap (Formal vs Informal)

The Test: Look at the prompt carefully.

• If the recipient is "Monsieur Leclerc, propriétaire" -> FORMAL.
• If the recipient is "Ton ami Thomas" -> INFORMAL.

Formal Markers:

Part 4: Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake 1: Writing Too Much

• Limit: 60-80 words.
• Problem: If you write 120 words, you lose points for "Respect de la consigne."
• Tip: Practice counting. Aim for 70 words.

Part 5: Exam Strategy (Time Management)

You have 20 minutes for Section A.

• Read the prompt. Identify the register (Formal/Informal).

Conclusion

Section A is the easiest section to score full marks on—IF you follow the formula. The examiners are not impressed by creativity. They want to see that you know how to write a culturally appropriate email in French. Master the 5 scenarios, respect the structure, and you unlock guaranteed points.