Written English (Optional)
What the optional Written English section tests
Where the Written English component is offered, it assesses control of standard written English: grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, vocabulary choice, clarity and coherence. It is not a creative-writing test. The best answer is usually the one that is clear, concise and grammatically secure in context.
Core rules
- Check subject–verb agreement and pronoun reference before style.
- Keep modifiers next to the word they describe. An opening phrase must describe the subject of the main clause.
- Use a semicolon or full stop between independent clauses; a comma alone creates a comma splice.
- Prefer parallel structure in lists: “reviewing, revising and submitting”, not “reviewing, revising and to submit”.
- Match register to purpose. Formal writing can still be plain; wordiness is not sophistication.
- Read the whole sentence for meaning, not just the underlined portion.
Worked example
“Having reviewed the test results, the options were explained to the patient by the consultant.” The opening phrase “Having reviewed the test results” should describe the person who reviewed them. But the main clause subject is “the options”, which cannot review results. This is a dangling modifier. A corrected version is: “Having reviewed the test results, the consultant explained the options to the patient.”
Traps
Do not overcorrect a sentence that is already clear. Do not assume the longest or most formal option is best. Do not ignore punctuation that changes meaning, such as the difference between “the patient’s notes” and “the patients’ notes”. Do not choose an option that fixes grammar but distorts the original meaning.