Top 5 Mistakes in the OET Exam for nurses Writing test

For many healthcare professionals, especially nurses, the Occupational English Test (OET) is a crucial step toward practicing in an English-speaking environment. While often underestimated, the writing sub-test plays a pivotal role in determining success.

In this article, we will explore the top five writing mistakes commonly made in the OET exam for nurses and offer practical strategies to help candidates improve their performance. Whether you're reviewing your preparation plan, researching OET exam dates 2025, or training with providers like Think English, this guide is tailored to set you up for success.

5 Mistakes Nurses Make in the OET Exam Writing Sub-Test

1 - Misunderstanding the Target Reader

Why It Matters

Each writing task in the OET Exam is addressed to a specific healthcare professional, such as a general practitioner, a physiotherapist, or a community nurse. Misunderstanding who the letter is intended for leads to inappropriate tone, irrelevant details, or omitted instructions.

Professional Tip for the OET exam for nurses

In the OET exam for nurses, before writing, take time to identify the purpose and the recipient’s role. Your tone, language, and content should reflect this relationship.

For instance, a letter to a physiotherapist should highlight mobility issues, functional limitations, and rehabilitation history, not detailed pharmacological data.

2 - Transferring Case Notes Directly into the Letter

Why It Matters

Case notes provided in the OET exam for nurses are not meant to be copied word-for-word. Doing so not only leads to disorganized writing but also reflects poor judgment about what’s clinically relevant.

Professional Tip

Filter the case notes in the OET exam carefully. Include only pertinent and updated information, and organize it logically. The ability to select and prioritize clinical information is a key assessment criterion.

Explore tailored OET writing preparations with Think English 

3 - Using Abbreviations or Shorthand

Why It Matters

The OET exam assesses your ability to communicate clearly in formal medical writing. Abbreviations, especially non-standard ones, can confuse the reader and lower your score.

Professional Tip

In the OET exam for nurses, avoid abbreviations unless they are internationally recognized (e.g., BMI, BP). Convert all shorthand into full medical English sentences using appropriate grammar and terminology.

4 - Poor Time Management

Why It Matters

During the OET exam preparations, candidates spend too much time planning or rewriting, leaving no time for proofreading. This often results in avoidable spelling and grammatical mistakes.

Professional Tip

Stick to this time structure:

• 5 minutes: Analyze the task and plan the letter

• 30–35 minutes: Write the letter

• 5–10 minutes: Proofread and polish

Practicing under timed conditions is critical, especially if your OET exam date in 2025 is approaching soon.

5 - Grammar and Structure Issues

Why It Matters

Even with good content, poor grammar and sentence structure can obscure your message and reduce clarity, leading to lower grades.

Professional Tip

Focus on:

• Subject-verb agreement

• Article usage (a, an, the)

• Proper paragraphing and transitions

• Maintaining a formal, objective tone throughout

Institutions like Think English offer structured grammar feedback sessions tailored to OET writing criteria.

Preparing for the OET Exam for Nurses: What You Need to Know

The OET exam is offered multiple times throughout the year. If you're planning to sit for the test in the coming months, check the latest OET exam dates 2025 via the official OET website or authorized preparation centers.

Regular updates on OET dates 2025 help ensure you align your preparation timeline and test registration accordingly.

Success in the OET writing sub-test requires more than language fluency. It demands critical thinking, clinical awareness, and strategic writing. By avoiding these five common mistakes, nurses can significantly improve their chances of scoring a Grade B or higher—a score accepted by healthcare boards across Australia, the UK, and more.

If you're still in preparation mode, consider enrolling in Think English - OET Preparation course, tailored for nursing professionals. With the right approach and consistent practice, you can enter your chosen OET exam date in 2025 with full confidence.

Ready to improve your writing score? Explore tailored OET writing workshops with Think English