What raters reward
A clear decision with sound reasoning (Task Fulfillment, Content/Coherence), the right register for a sensitive message (Vocabulary, Listenability), and tact — acknowledging the downside and how you'll handle it.
Your time plan
How to structure it
Fill the [slots] with your own ideas — adapt the frames, don't recite them.
Set up the situation for the listener.
Grammar Present simple
- I'm in a tricky spot: I have to choose between [A] and [B].
- I wanted to talk to you because [situation].
State it plainly so there's no ambiguity.
Grammar Decision ('I've decided to …')
- After thinking it over, I've decided to [choice].
- In the end, I'm going to [choice].
Give the practical or ethical logic.
Grammar Because / since
- The main reason is [reason].
- It makes the most sense since [justification].
Show tact — name the inconvenience and offer a fix or apology.
Grammar Modals + apology / conditional
- I realize this means [downside], and I'm sorry about that.
- To make up for it, I'll [fix].
Keep goodwill with the person.
Grammar Polite close
- I really hope you understand.
- Thanks for being flexible — it means a lot.
A worked model answer
A high-scoring sample that follows this shape — use it as a model, not a script.
Hi Alex,
I hope you’re enjoying the trip so far. I wanted to talk about our schedule today. I completely admire how organized you are and how much effort you’ve put into planning every detail—it really shows! However, I’ve noticed that some of us are feeling quite drained from the early start and continuous sightseeing. I’m worried that pushing through every single activity might leave us too exhausted to fully enjoy the landmarks later.
Would you consider skipping or postponing a few afternoon stops so we can recharge at the hotel pool? A short break could help everyone regain energy and make the remaining experiences more memorable. I promise we’ll still see the highlights, just at a more relaxed pace.
Useful vocabulary
Vocabulary is one of the four scored dimensions — weave a few in (don't force all of them).
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not actually choosing.
- Forgetting the downside or the person's feelings.
- Wrong register (too blunt with family, too casual with a boss).
- Spending all the time on the problem and none on the solution.
Quick tips
- Decide fast so you have time to justify and soften it.
- Match register to the relationship (boss vs. friend vs. family).
- Acknowledge the inconvenience and offer a small fix.