“Please see this patient” leaves the reader to infer the purpose. A clearer opening identifies the assessment or assistance requested and the issue that makes it relevant.
The first case and model in OET Writing for Dentistry Professionals concern a referral for an opinion and discussion of options. This guide focuses on purpose, not dental treatment recommendations.
Use the task to identify the action
Read what the recipient is being asked to do. An assessment, an update and a transfer do not communicate the same purpose. Keep that action visible in the opening.
Original administrative example
Vague: “I am writing about Alex.”
Specific: “I am referring Alex for a review of the access arrangements before the next workshop.”
The second sentence identifies both the action and its context.
Do not convert options into decisions
If the notes say that alternatives are to be discussed, do not write that one has already been selected. The purpose of a review may be to establish that decision.
Preserve the status
Notes: Discuss morning or evening attendance.
Accurate: “Please discuss suitable attendance options.”
Unsupported: “Evening attendance has been confirmed.”
Check the closing against the opening
The final request should support the same purpose. Avoid ending with a different action that the task did not ask for.
Draft a one-sentence opening and closing before writing the body. Then select the details that help the recipient understand and respond to that request.
Explore OET Writing for Dentists — Course 1 to see the course outline, current availability and enrolment options. Use the worked exercise above to identify a skill you would like to practise next.
Your next step
OET Writing for Dentists — Course 1
Explore the complete course outline and related practice topics.
Source: OET DEN WR 01.epub, Jobins Training. Examples labelled original or illustrative were written for this article. Independent exam preparation; no affiliation with or endorsement by the examining body. Practice does not predict an official score.