Passing the Inburgering Writing Exam (Schrijven A2) is a big step in your integration journey. Many students know the grammar and vocabulary but still lose points because of small, avoidable mistakes. This guide will help you understand the most common mistakes, how to fix them, and how to improve your writing skills for the exam.

Table of Contents

• Exam Overview
• Top Common Mistakes
• How to Avoid These Mistakes
• Study Plan for Writing Success
• Checklist: Do & Don’t
• Resources
• FAQ
• Conclusion

Exam Overview

The Inburgering Writing Exam tests your ability to write in Dutch at A2 level. You may be asked to:

• Write a short letter or email
• Complete a form with details
• Describe daily situations (for example: writing a note to a neighbor, or an email to your boss)

Time: About 40 minutes
Passing score: You need a sufficient number of points for grammar, spelling, and clarity.

For official details, always check DUO.

Top Common Mistakes

Here are the most frequent problems exam candidates face:

1. Spelling mistakes (mixing de/het, verbs with -d/-t endings).
2. Wrong word order in sentences, especially after conjunctions.
3. Not answering the full question (writing too short or missing details).
4. Mixing formal and informal style (e.g., starting with "Hoi" in a formal email).
5. Grammar errors: forgetting verb endings, incorrect plurals.
6. Repetition of the same words instead of using simple synonyms.
7. Not structuring the text: missing beginning, middle, and end.
8. Poor handwriting (if the examiner cannot read your text, you lose points).

How to Avoid These Mistakes

1. Spelling and Grammar

• Practice verb conjugation tables for common verbs.
• Review de/het words often, and memorize the most frequent ones.

2. Sentence Structure

• Remember: in Dutch, the verb is usually in the second place in main clauses.
• After words like omdat or want, the verb often goes to the end of the sentence.

3. Answering the Question Fully

• Always check the task: Who are you writing to? What information do you need to give?
• Add all required details (for example: date, reason, your name).

4. Formal vs Informal

• Use formal greetings for official letters (Geachte meneer/mevrouw).
• Use informal greetings only with friends or family (Hoi, Hallo).

5. Vocabulary Variety

• Learn simple synonyms: e.g., mooi → leuk, fijn → goed.

6. Structure Your Writing

• Start with a greeting, then the main message, then a polite ending.

7. Handwriting

• Write slowly and clearly, not too small.
• Practice writing on paper before the exam.

Study Plan for Writing Success

A simple 3-week writing study plan:

Week 1

• Revise grammar basics (verbs, plurals).
• Write 1 short text per day (5–6 sentences).

Week 2

• Practice exam-style tasks: letters, notes, forms.
• Get feedback from a teacher or friend.

Week 3

• Time yourself (40 minutes).
• Practice complete exam tasks.
• Focus on avoiding your personal mistakes.

Checklist: Do & Don’t

✅ Do:

• Answer all parts of the question.
• Write clearly, with structure.
• Use formal style if the situation requires it.
• Review your text before finishing.

❌ Don’t:

• Write too short (risk of missing information).
• Use spoken Dutch (like ff or mss).
• Forget greetings and endings.
• Panic if you make a mistake—cross it out and continue.

Resources

For the best preparation, use:

• InburgeringExam.nl:
  Practice with real exam-style writing tasks, get AI-powered feedback, and track your progress. This is the best way to prepare because it feels like the real exam.

• DUO official website:
  For rules, registration, and exam dates. Remember: DUO does not provide practice materials, only official information.

• Rijksoverheid:
  For rules about integration and residence permits.

FAQ

1. How many words should I write in the exam?
There is no strict number, but usually 40–60 words is safe. Always answer fully.

2. Can I write in pencil?
No, you must write with pen. Pencil is not allowed.

3. What if I make a spelling mistake?
Cross it out and continue. One or two mistakes are okay, but many mistakes lower your score.

4. Do I need difficult words to pass?
No, simple and correct Dutch is enough. Focus on clarity.

5. Can I write short sentences?
Yes, but connect them with simple words like en, maar, want.

6. What happens if my text is too short?
You lose points. Always make sure to answer all parts of the task.

Conclusion

The Inburgering Writing Exam (A2) is not about perfect Dutch, it is about clear and correct communication. Most people lose points because of small mistakes in spelling, grammar, or style. With practice, structure, and the right resources, you can avoid these mistakes and pass with confidence.

Start practicing today with InburgeringExam.nl to build your skills step by step.