The HSK 5 Writing section tests your ability to produce coherent, grammatically correct Chinese texts on given topics. Here’s a detailed breakdown of its structure, requirements, and preparation strategies:

1. Section Overview
- Duration: 40 minutes (part of the 125-minute HSK 5 test).
- Format: 8 tasks divided into two parts:
- Part 1: Sentence Completion (完成句子 / Wán Chéng Jù Zi)
- 5 questions: Fill in the blanks to complete sentences using given words or phrases.
- Part 2: Guided Writing (看图用词写短文 / Kàn Tú Yòng Cí Xiě Duǎn Wén)
- 3 tasks: Write short compositions (80–120 characters each) based on prompts (e.g., a picture, a question, or a topic).
- Part 1: Sentence Completion (完成句子 / Wán Chéng Jù Zi)

2. Task Breakdown
Part 1: Sentence Completion (5 questions)
- Format:
- You are given 5 incomplete sentences and 10 words/phrases (2 options per sentence).
- Choose the most appropriate word/phrase to complete each sentence.
- Focus:
- Tests vocabulary usage, grammar, and contextual understanding.
- Requires distinguishing between similar words (e.g., “虽然” [although] vs. “即使” [even if]).
- Example:原文:他每天工作很忙,______ 仍然坚持学习中文。
选项:A. 所以 B. 但是 C. 因为 D. 然而
正确答案: B. 但是 (He works hard every day, but he still insists on learning Chinese.)

Part 2: Guided Writing (3 tasks)
- Format:
- Write 3 short compositions (80–120 characters each) based on:
- A picture (e.g., describe a scene).
- A question (e.g., “谈谈你对环保的看法”).
- A topic (e.g., “我的爱好” [My Hobby]).
- Write 3 short compositions (80–120 characters each) based on:
- Focus:
- Tests writing coherence, organization, and basic composition skills.
- Requires using HSK 5 vocabulary and grammar effectively.
- Example Task:Prompt: 根据图片写一篇短文,描述图片中的场景。
图片内容: 两个朋友在公园散步,周围有花和树。
Sample Answer:
图片中,两个朋友在公园里散步。天气很好,阳光明媚。他们一边走一边聊天,周围有很多漂亮的花和树。他们看起来很开心。

3. Key Evaluation Criteria
- Grammar Accuracy: Correct use of sentence structures, particles, and tenses.
- Vocabulary Appropriateness: Using HSK 5-level words naturally.
- Coherence & Logic: Clear organization (e.g., using transition words like “首先” [first], “然后” [then]).
- Relevance: Staying on-topic and answering the prompt directly.
4. Preparation Strategies
A. Vocabulary & Grammar
- Master HSK 5 Words: Focus on 2,500 HSK 5 words and common collocations (e.g., “提高效率” [improve efficiency]).
- Review Grammar: Practice advanced structures (e.g., “把” sentences, complex comparisons).

B. Sentence Completion Practice
- Work with Past Papers: Use official HSK 5 practice tests to get familiar with question patterns.
- Eliminate Wrong Options: Cross out obviously incorrect choices to narrow down your options.
C. Guided Writing Practice
- Plan Before Writing:
- Outline: Jot down key points (e.g., “天气—朋友—活动—感受”).
- Use Templates: For opinion essays, use structures like:我认为……(观点)
首先……(理由1)
其次……(理由2)
所以……(结论)
- Practice Daily: Write short compositions on topics like “我的周末计划” or “健康的生活方式”.
- Check for Errors: After writing, review for grammar mistakes, typos, or awkward phrasing.

D. Time Management
- Allocate Time Wisely:
- Part 1 (Sentence Completion): ~10 minutes (2 minutes per question).
- Part 2 (Guided Writing): ~30 minutes (10 minutes per composition).
- Avoid Overthinking: In Part 1, don’t spend too long on a single question—skip and return if needed.
5. Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them
Pitfall | Solution |
---|---|
Grammar Errors | Review grammar rules weekly; use apps like HelloChinese for drills. |
Irrelevant Content | Stick to the prompt; avoid adding unnecessary details. |
Poor Handwriting | Write clearly and legibly; avoid overly complex characters. |
Overusing Simple Words | Gradually incorporate HSK 5 vocabulary (e.g., replace “好” with “优秀”). |

6. Example Writing Task & Answer
Task: 根据以下问题写一篇短文:你最喜欢的中国传统节日是什么?为什么?
Sample Answer (100 characters):
我最喜欢的中国传统节日是春节。春节期间,家人团聚,一起吃年夜饭,看春晚。孩子们会收到红包,非常开心。春节让我感受到家庭的温暖和传统文化的魅力。
Final Tips
- Practice Regularly: Write 1–2 short compositions daily.
- Get Feedback: Ask a teacher or language partner to review your work.
- Stay Calm on Test Day: Read the prompt carefully, plan your response, and write neatly.
By following these strategies, you’ll build the skills needed to excel in the HSK 5 Writing section. ✍️📝 Good luck!
