Share Your Feedback

Generating questions for this page…

WT

Writing Test

A structured free-response writing assessment scored on Grammar, Clarity, Structure, and Vocabulary. Pass score: 15/20. Always reviewed by a human assessor.

20 min
Test duration
15/20
Pass score
300
Minimum words
12 hrs
Review SLA

What the Writing Test measures

Candidates respond in prose to a structured prompt — a scenario, argument, or brief — of the type they would encounter in a professional role. Responses are scored out of 20 across four equally-weighted categories: Grammar (0–5), Clarity (0–5), Structure (0–5), and Vocabulary (0–5). Each error or weakness within a category deducts one point, with a floor of zero per category. A score of 15/20 or above is a pass.

Sample prompts

Prompts vary by difficulty and are drawn from professional contexts: "Write a 300-word briefing note summarising the key risks in the attached scenario"; "Draft an email to a client explaining a project delay"; "Summarise the main argument of the following passage in your own words." Prompts are rotated and never reused across candidates in the same client account.

How employers use this test

The Writing Test is used for roles where original composition matters — content writers, communications managers, bid writers, policy officers, and senior editorial roles. Because it is always human-reviewed, it carries more evidential weight than auto-scored tests in interview discussions. Results are available within 12 hours of submission.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Writing Test always marked by a human? +
Yes, always. Every Writing Test submission is reviewed by a trained assessor. Results are available within 12 hours of submission.
What is the minimum word count? +
Responses must be at least 300 words. The test interface enforces this — candidates cannot submit until the minimum is met.
Can the scoring rubric be customised? +
The four-category rubric (Grammar, Clarity, Structure, Vocabulary) is standardised to maintain benchmark validity. Custom rubrics are available for enterprise accounts — contact us to discuss.
Can the Writing Test be combined with other tests? +
Yes. It is commonly combined with the GT as a two-part writing assessment, or included in a custom package alongside ET and PT for senior editorial roles.

Start testing with the Writing Test

Create a free account and send your first candidate invitation in minutes.

"Exactly the benchmark we needed — defensible, fast, and trusted by our legal team."

— HR Director, International Law Firm