telc C1 Writing (Schriftlicher Ausdruck) – Writing a Structured Text
You choose one of two topics and write a structured, argumentative text. Here’s how to build it step by step.
As of 2026 · Built to the official exam format
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Key takeaways
- Choose 1 of 2 topics and write around 250 words – a structured statement.
- Structure: introduction – body (weigh arguments) – conclusion (opinion, summary).
What this part tests
In this part you produce a longer text yourself: around 250 words. You choose between two topics – usually a thesis or question on society, education, technology or work – and write a statement or essay. You have 70 minutes.
Three things are decisive: you treat the topic fully and in a differentiated way (task fulfillment), you build and connect the text clearly (communicative design: introduction, body, conclusion, connectors) and you write correct, formal C1 German (accuracy). There are 48 points in total.
The most common point losses: no clear structure, one-sided instead of balanced argumentation, vocabulary that’s too simple, or a register that’s too colloquial. Whoever collects arguments first, structures clearly and uses demanding phrases writes convincingly.
How to approach it
- 1
Read both topics and choose the one you have more arguments for.
- 2
Collect arguments for and against in note form and order them.
- 3
Plan the structure: introduction (topic, thesis), body (weigh arguments), conclusion (opinion, summary).
- 4
Write the text and connect the arguments with demanding connectors.
- 5
Justify your own opinion and draw a clear conclusion.
- 6
Check at the end: around 250 words, clear structure, formal register, correct language?
Example task with answer
A short example in the same format: the task and an extract showing structure and argumentation.
Schreiben Sie eine Stellungnahme zur These: „Soziale Medien schaden der Gesellschaft mehr, als sie ihr nutzen." Führen Sie das Thema ein, wägen Sie Argumente ab und begründen Sie Ihre Meinung.
Model extract (introduction + argument):
Why? The extract introduces the topic factually, weighs up with “einerseits/andererseits” and leads into the writer’s opinion with a reason – exactly what’s expected at C1. Demanding connectors and a formal register carry the text.
Practice: test yourself
Du schreibst eine Stellungnahme zur These „Homeoffice sollte für alle Beschäftigten zur Pflicht werden".
Which sentence works well as an introduction?
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Common mistakes
Without an introduction, structured body and conclusion you lose points on design. Plan beforehand.
At C1 weighing up is expected. Name the other side too before justifying your opinion.
Use demanding connectors and precise vocabulary, not just “und”, “aber”, “auch”.
Write consistently formally and factually. Avoid colloquial language and hasty judgements.
Tips
- Plan before writing – five minutes collecting arguments saves you time and structure.
- Learn a set of phrases for introduction, weighing up, opinion and conclusion by heart.
- Always weigh up before you justify your opinion – that shows C1 level.
Frequently asked questions
How long should the text be?
Around 250 words. More important than the exact number is that you treat the topic fully and in a differentiated way.
Do I have to treat both sides of a topic?
Yes, at C1 weighing up is expected. Name arguments for and against before justifying your own opinion.
How formal do I have to write?
Consistently formal and factual, with precise vocabulary and demanding connectors. Avoid colloquial language.
How do I get feedback on my text?
The official PDF answer key doesn’t assess writing. At Prepliq a mock scores your text automatically on criteria of Prepliq’s own – task fulfillment, communicative design and accuracy.
Useful resources
Learn 800+ of the most important telc German C1 words interactively with flashcards.
Preview and download the official telc German C1 practice test – with answers and study material.
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