telc B2 Writing: Task Types, Structure Template and Model Answer
Last updated: July 2026 · 8 min read
In the telc Deutsch B2 writing section you have 30 minutes to write one text, chosen from two tasks. The most common task types are formal letters: complaint (Beschwerde), enquiry (Anfrage) or application. The main difference from B1 is the expectation of richer sentence structures and a situation-appropriate formal register.
Sample Task: Beschwerdebrief (Complaint Letter)
A product you ordered online arrived damaged and customer service hasn't responded for two weeks. Write a complaint letter: describe the situation, explain the inconvenience, demand a concrete solution and state what you will do if there is no response.
B2 Letter Structure and Phrases
- Subject line and salutation: „Betreff: Beschwerde über die Lieferung vom 12.05." · „Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren,"
- Why I am writing: „Ich wende mich an Sie, weil…" / „Mit diesem Schreiben möchte ich mich über … beschweren."
- Describing the situation: „Am 12. Mai habe ich bei Ihnen … bestellt. Bei der Lieferung musste ich leider feststellen, dass…"
- Criticism in a measured tone: „Ich finde es äußerst ärgerlich, dass… / Von einem Unternehmen wie Ihrem hätte ich einen besseren Service erwartet."
- Concrete demand: „Ich fordere Sie daher auf, … / Ich erwarte, dass Sie mir bis zum … eine Rückerstattung gewähren."
- Closing with consequence: „Sollte ich bis … keine Antwort erhalten, sehe ich mich gezwungen, weitere Schritte einzuleiten." + „Mit freundlichen Grüßen"
From B1 to B2: What Raters Expect
| Dimension | Enough at B1 | Expected at B2 |
|---|---|---|
| Sentence structure | Simple subordinate clauses | Variety: Passiv, Konjunktiv II, relative clauses |
| Vocabulary | Everyday range | Topic-specific, formal expressions (feststellen, gewähren, auffordern) |
| Tone | Correct salutation | Firm but polite complaint language; criticism without exaggeration |
Common Mistakes
- Turning the complaint into an insult — losing the register costs points directly
- No concrete demand (a dated, specific request instead of "do something")
- Skipping one of the task's guiding points
- Settling for B1-level simple sentences — the language-range score stays low
Get Instant Feedback on Your B2 Text
In Zertifly's writing module you write B2-level letters and opinion texts; the AI gives instant feedback on content coverage, register and language range, and shows an improved version of your text.
Related guides: telc Deutsch B2 exam guide · telc B1 letter examples
Conclusion
What sets a telc B2 letter apart is not length but controlled register: a clear structure, a formal tone that fits the situation, and sentence variety that demonstrates B2. Writing two letters a week, each with one language goal (e.g. using Konjunktiv II), is the fastest way to improve.
