Mastering OET Writing:  10 Key Strategies for Success

OET Writing

Are you an international medical graduate preparing for the OET writing subtest? Are you struggling to achieve the scores you need to achieve your dream of working and living in an English-speaking country? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many candidates find the OET writing subtest challenging, but with the right approach and some targeted practice, you can improve your skills and achieve your goals. Here are

10 top tips to help you master the art of OET writing:

1. Understand the Assessment Criteria

Before you begin preparing for the OET writing subtest, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the assessment criteria. Understanding what the examiners are looking for will help you to focus your efforts and ensure that you’re meeting the necessary standards.

2. Learn from Sample Materials

One of the best ways to improve your OET writing skills is to study sample materials. These will give you an idea of what the examiners expect and help you to identify your strengths and weaknesses. 

3. Practice, Practice, Practice

Practice makes perfect, and this is especially true when it comes to OET writing. The more you practice, the more comfortable you’ll become with the format and the assessment criteria.

4. Get Feedback

It’s crucial to get feedback on your writing from a qualified OET teacher or tutor. They can help you identify areas for improvement and provide you with specific advice on how to enhance your writing skills.

5. Focus on Grammar and Vocabulary

Good grammar and a strong vocabulary are essential for OET writing success. Make sure you brush up on these areas and expand your vocabulary range.

6. Use Appropriate Language

It’s important to use appropriate language in your writing, taking into account the level of formality required for the task. This means avoiding slang and colloquialisms and using suitable medical terminology.

7. Plan and Organize Your Writing

Effective planning and organization are key to producing a coherent and well-structured piece of writing. Make sure you take the time to plan your response before you begin writing and use appropriate signposting language to help the reader navigate your text.

8. Use the Right Terminology

 In the OET Writing sub-test, it’s important to use appropriate medical terminology and language to demonstrate your understanding of medical concepts. Be sure to familiarize yourself with medical-specific vocabulary related to your profession and use it appropriately in your writing.

What is important to remember is that not only will you need to be familiar with the terminology used between medical professionals with the same knowledge as you as the writer, but you will also need to adapt your choice of vocabulary to suit readers who may not be familiar with certain specialised medical terms

9. Practice Time Management

Time management is critical in the OET writing subtest. Make sure you are familiar with the time limits and practice managing your time effectively to ensure that you can complete the task within the allotted time.

10. Stay Calm and Focused

Finally, it’s essential to stay calm and focused during the exam. Try to remain relaxed and focused, even if you encounter challenging questions or feel under pressure. Remember that you have prepared well and that you have the skills and knowledge you need to succeed.


Need more help?

I hope that these tips will help you to improve your OET writing skills and achieve the scores you need to achieve your career goals. If you would like more personalized advice and guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out. 

I’m here to support you every step of the way. Contact me today to learn more about my OET writing courses and private tuition options.

🩺Background

When Matías, an experienced anaesthetist from Argentina, approached me, he wasn’t simply looking to pass the OET. He had a bigger goal in mind: to achieve a high score and use the OET as a stepping stone towards a medical career in the United States. For him, success meant more than a certificate—it meant confidence, clarity, and readiness for what came next.

The Challenge

Although Matías already had a solid level of English, he knew that wasn’t enough. He wanted coaching that would sharpen his communication, help him navigate the OET format with ease, and make sure nothing was left to chance. Like many international medical professionals, Matías was also juggling limited time and the need to make rapid progress.

The Approach

For one month, we worked together intensively with a structured and personalised plan. This included:

  • Daily speaking practice tailored to OET scenarios

  • High-quality preparation materials—better than what Matías had seen before

  • Clear guidance on how to maximise marks in each sub-test

  • Mindset coaching to build confidence and reduce performance anxiety

Everything was designed to be efficient, supportive, and flexible, fitting around his clinical responsibilities and personal life.

The Result✨🎉

The outcome was, in Matías’ words, “amazing.” He scored well above the minimum required scores across all OET sub-tests. But more importantly, he walked away with:

  • A deeper understanding of the linguistic skills needed for consultations

  • Sharpened communication skills to further enhance the doctor-patienet relationship

  • A renewed sense of confidence about his career journey

As Matías shared:

“Even though the economic situation in my country is tough, this was one of the best investments I’ve made. It’s 100% worth it.”

Why It Matters

This case study highlights what’s possible when expert support is combined with personal dedication. Many international doctors, like Matías, already have the clinical knowledge and the drive—they just need the right guidance to help them express it clearly in English.


Could You Be Next? ✨🎖️

If you’re an international medical graduate preparing for the OET, I’d love to help you achieve the results you’re capable of. Whether you’re aiming to meet minimum requirements or push your score higher to unlock new opportunities, you’re not alone.

📩 Get in touch today to find out more or start your journey now with a trial lesson 👇

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