11+ Writing Guide
Master every type of exam writing task with comprehensive guides, expert tips, and practical examples
What to Expect in 11+ Writing Exams
The 11+ writing exam is a crucial component of selective school entrance tests across the UK. Students are typically given 30-45 minutes to produce a piece of writing in response to a prompt. Understanding what examiners look for and how to structure your approach is essential for success.
What Examiners Look For
- ✓ Clear structure with beginning, middle, and end
- ✓ Varied and sophisticated vocabulary
- ✓ Engaging content that responds to the prompt
- ✓ Correct spelling, punctuation, and grammar (SPaG)
- ✓ Varied sentence structures and paragraph use
- ✓ Appropriate tone and style for the writing type
How Marks Are Awarded
- Content & Ideas (35-40%): Originality, relevance, and development
- Structure & Organization (25-30%): Coherent paragraphs and flow
- Language & Vocabulary (20-25%): Word choice and techniques
- SPaG (15-20%): Technical accuracy and sentence variety
Top 10 Writing Tips for 11+ Success
Plan before you write
Spend 5 minutes planning your structure and key ideas
Start with impact
Hook your reader with an engaging opening line or scene
Show, don't tell
Use descriptive details and actions rather than stating feelings
Vary your sentences
Mix short, punchy sentences with longer, complex ones
Use ambitious vocabulary
But only words you can spell correctly and use appropriately
Create clear paragraphs
Each paragraph should develop one main idea or event
Stay focused on the prompt
Don't go off-topic; answer what's being asked
Use literary techniques
Similes, metaphors, alliteration when appropriate
Leave time to check
Save 5 minutes to proofread for SPaG errors
Practice regularly
The more you write, the more confident you'll become
Master All Writing Types
Explore comprehensive guides for each type of writing you'll encounter in the 11+ exam
Creative Writing
Master storytelling with engaging characters, settings, and narrative techniques
Descriptive Writing
Learn to paint vivid pictures with words and create atmosphere
Persuasive Writing
Build compelling arguments that convince and influence readers
Discursive Writing
Discuss complex topics with balanced arguments and mature thinking
Comparing Writing Types
| Writing Type | Purpose | Key Features | Common Prompts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Creative | Tell a story | Plot, characters, dialogue, narrative voice | "Write a story about...", "Continue this story..." |
| Descriptive | Paint a picture | Sensory details, imagery, atmosphere, mood | "Describe a place...", "Describe the moment..." |
| Persuasive | Convince the reader | Arguments, evidence, rhetorical devices, strong conclusion | "Write a letter to...", "Persuade readers to..." |
| Discursive | Discuss both sides | Balanced arguments, transitions, measured conclusion | "Discuss whether...", "Should we...?" |
Ready to Excel in Your 11+ Writing Exam?
Start practicing with our comprehensive guides and expert tips