In the writing section, clear and precise communication with proper OET writing tenses is vital, particularly for nurses working in the UK, where accurate written communication can directly impact patient care. The OET Writing sub-test assesses a candidate’s ability to convey clinical information appropriately, and mastery of English tenses plays a critical role in this assessment.
This guide provides a simplified yet comprehensive overview of OET writing tenses and how nurses can utilise them effectively in their OET writing tasks.
Why Does OET Writing Tense Matter?
The writing sub-test typically requires nurses to produce a referral, discharge, or transfer letter based on a given case note. These letters must present information in a logical, professional manner. Misuse of OET writing tenses can lead to confusion, misrepresentation of the patient’s condition, and loss of marks.
Correct tense usage ensures clarity in:
- Describing a patient’s present condition (present tense)
- Reporting past events or treatments (past tense)
- Stating future plans or recommendations (future tense)
Commonly Used OET Writing Tenses
1. Present Simple Tense
Used to describe current conditions, ongoing routines, or general facts.
Example:
Mr Green suffers from chronic hypertension.
She takes 5 mg of amlodipine daily.
2. Past Simple Tense
Used to recount completed actions or past events relevant to the case.
Example:
The patient underwent a left knee replacement in 2021.
He reported experiencing dizziness last night.
3. Present Perfect Tense
Used to highlight recent past events that are relevant to the current situation.
Example:
She has experienced episodes of breathlessness over the past week.
He has been taking antibiotics since Monday.
4. Future Tense (Will / Going to)
Used when writing about plans, advice, or actions to be taken after the letter is sent.
Example:
She will require follow-up with the respiratory team.
I am referring her to your care for ongoing wound management.
How to Identify the Right OET Writing Tenses in a Letter Task
One of the most effective ways to determine which tense to use is to categorise the case note information into three columns:
- Medical History & Past Events – Use past simple.
- Current Condition & Ongoing Treatment – Use present simple or present perfect.
- Recommended Actions or Follow-up Plans – Use the future tense.
This strategy helps maintain a logical structure in your letter and ensures that the events are communicated with clarity.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Switching OET writing tenses mid-sentence: This often leads to confusion or ambiguity.
Incorrect: The patient is recovering well and had been discharged yesterday.
Correct: The patient is recovering well and was discharged yesterday. - Using the present tense for past events: This can make the timeline unclear and affect clinical understanding.
Incorrect: She presents with a wound that developed last month.
Correct: She presented with a wound that developed last month. - Overusing the present perfect when the past simple is more accurate: The present perfect is used for experiences or recent events with current relevance, not all past actions.
Incorrect: He has undergone surgery in 2022.
Correct: He underwent surgery in 2022.
Practical Tips for Nurses
- Timeline Awareness: Always consider the timeline of events. Use the past tense for historical information, the present for current conditions, and the future for ongoing care needs.
- Consistency: Avoid unnecessary shifts in tenses. Inconsistent use of OET writing tenses can make your writing unclear or disjointed.
- Case Note Analysis: When reviewing the case notes, identify which information belongs to which time frame before starting the letter.
Final Thoughts
For nurses aiming to work or register in the UK, excelling in the OET Writing sub-test is crucial. Accurate use of OET writing tenses reflects not only your English proficiency but also your ability to document clinical information responsibly.
With practice and a clear understanding of tense usage, nurses can present clinical narratives that are precise, professional, and effective, ensuring their writing meets the high standards expected in UK healthcare settings.
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