Here are a few Business Writing sample questions and answers so that you can get a better idea of what to expect on test day. Effective business writing takes practice, you need to develop your own writing to be clear and concise - but it's a skill worth learning.
Business Writing Sample
Business Writing Sample Questions With Answers
Sample questions for business email writing
Example 1
Write an email to Mr lewis:
- Apologising for the cancellation
- Explaining why this is necessary
- Suggesting a date when you are free
Business Email Writing Sample Answer
To: James Lewis
Subject: Meeting
Hello Mr Lewis
I’m afraid I won’t be able to attend this afternoon’s meeting. I’m covering for my boss Colin Frazer, who was involved in a car accident this morning.
I apologise for the inconvenience.
Can we reschedule? Friday is good for me.
Regards,
Peter
Business Email Writing Example 2
Write an email to the organizer:
- welcoming their interest
- summarising details of the event they propose
- requesting additional information
Thank you for your interest in hosting an event at our premises. We understand that it would be a 3-day event beginning on the 30th of April and ending on the 2nd of May. We look forward to hearing more details about the event, including any special requirements or equipment needs.
Please get back to me with more information as soon as possible so we can discuss further.
Sincerely,
Your Name
Business Email Writing Example 3
Write an email to the organizer:
- expressing gratitude for the invitation
- inquiring about details of the event
- confirming your attendance
We are honored to have been invited to the upcoming networking event. We thank you for the opportunity and would like to know more about it.
Could you please provide us with details regarding the event's agenda, location, and time?
We look forward to attending at this important event.
Thank you for your attention.
Sincerely,
Your Name
Business Writing: An Overview for English Learners
What is Business Writing?
Business writing refers to creating clear, concise, and professional documents for communication in a business setting. Examples include emails, reports, proposals, and more.
What are the 3 Cs of business writing?
- Clear – Your writing should be easy to understand, with a logical structure and no ambiguity. Avoid jargon and complex sentences.
- Concise – Keep your writing brief and to the point. Eliminate unnecessary words and focus on the essential message.
- Courteous – Maintain a polite and professional tone. Be respectful, positive, and consider the reader’s perspective.
Types of Business Writing
There are 4 main types of business writing.
1. Informational Business Writing
Provides facts, data, or reports without persuading the reader. Examples: business reports, internal memos.
2. Persuasive Business Writing
Aims to convince the reader. Examples: marketing emails, proposals, sales letters.
3. Instructional Business Writing
Gives clear instructions on processes or tasks. Examples: manuals, guidelines.
4. Transactional Business Writing
Used for routine communication. Examples: emails, invoices, business letters.
Key Components of Business Writing
- Business Communication – The exchange of information in a professional setting.
- Writing Process – Planning, drafting, revising, and finalizing a document.
- Business Writing Skills – Clarity, conciseness, tone, grammar, and structure.
- Strong Writing Skills – The ability to express ideas effectively and professionally.
- Concise Communication – Writing in a direct and to-the-point manner.
Common Business Documents
- Business Letter – A formal letter used for communication between companies or professionals. An effective formal business letter format includes the sender’s details, date, recipient’s details, subject, greeting, body, closing, and signature.
- A Business Report aims to provide an analysis, evaluation, or recommendation on a topic.
- Financial Performance Reports are documents showing a company's financial health.
- An Executive Summary is a short overview of a business report, highlighting key points.
- Business Proposals are documents that present a business idea or solution to a problem.
Workplace & Business Writing Context
- Professional Setting – A formal work environment where business communication happens.
- Technical Writing – Writing that explains technical information in an easy-to-understand way.
- Meeting Agenda – A list of topics to be discussed in a business meeting.
- Press Releases – Official statements issued to the media about company news.
- Internal and External Communications – Internal Communication: Messages within an organization (emails, memos). External Communication: Messages to outside parties (clients, suppliers).
- Subject Line – The main topic of an email or letter, summarizing the content.
- Written Communication – Using written words to convey messages in business.
- Harvard Business Review – A publication offering insights on business writing and communication.
- Job Title – The official designation of a person’s role in a company.
- Professional Communication – A polite and structured way of interacting in a workplace.
Essential Business Writing Practices
5 best business writing practices to develop to become an effective communicator:
- Be Clear and Concise – Avoid unnecessary words and write in a straightforward manner. Get to the point quickly.
- Use a Professional but Friendly Tone – Keep your writing professional yet approachable. Adapt your tone based on the audience and purpose.
- Structure Your Writing Properly – Use headings, bullet points, and short paragraphs to make content easy to read and follow.
- Proofread and Edit – Always check for grammar, spelling, and clarity before sending or publishing any business document.
- Know Your Audience – Tailor your writing style, language, and level of detail to suit the reader’s background and expectations.