7 Key Strategies to Reach a 140 Score in Duolingo English Test Interactive Writing

We all want to get a higher score on the DET! These seven impactful strategies for the Interactive Writing section should help. Each technique adds precision, detail, and variety, making your responses stronger. Let’s get started!

1. Read the Prompt Carefully

Before you start writing, take a moment to fully understand the question. Ensure that you address every part of the prompt.

💡 Why This Matters:
Under time pressure, it's easy to overlook details. If a prompt asks about a challenge and how you overcame it, cover both parts for a complete response.

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2. Use Alternative Linking Words

Variety in transition words makes your response smooth and clear. Strong connections between ideas enhance readability and improve flow.

🔹 Examples of Alternative Linking Words:

• Contrast: on the other hand, in contrast, nonetheless
• Adding Information: in addition, not to mention, equally important
• Illustrating Examples: as an illustration, to demonstrate, in particular

3. Utilize Signposting Language

Signposting helps organize your writing and guide the reader through your response.

🔹 Examples of Signposting Phrases:

• Introducing the First Point: initially, to start with, the primary factor
• Adding Supporting Ideas: similarly, another aspect, along with this
• Shifting to a New Idea: subsequently, alternatively, on a different note

4. Elevate Basic Vocabulary

Swap out common words for more refined choices that add clarity and precision.

🔹 Examples:

• Instead of "looked at," use "examined"
• Replace "found out" with "discovered"
• Swap "gave advice" for "offered guidance"

5. Express Your Opinion with Stronger Phrases

Use fresh and natural-sounding phrases to make your response more engaging.

🔹 Examples:

• "In my estimation, the primary cause of this issue is..."
• "I am inclined to believe that..."
• "From a personal perspective, it appears that..."

✏️ Example: "In my estimation, problem-solving skills can develop through experience as well as training."

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6. Finish Strong with a Well-Crafted Conclusion

A conclusion reinforces your key ideas and adds a sense of closure.

🔹 How to Formulate a Conclusion:
✅ Summarize Main Points – Restate key ideas concisely.
✅ Add a Final Insight – If possible, provide a thoughtful reflection.

✏️ Example: "To sum up, while some skills may come naturally, practice and patience play essential roles in honing one’s abilities."

7. Take a Moment to Proofread

Even 20-30 seconds of reviewing can catch small mistakes that might affect your score.

🔹 Quick Proofreading Tips:
✅ Check subject-verb agreement
✅ Spot spelling errors
✅ Remove unnecessary words

Final Thoughts

By applying these seven strategies, your writing will become clearer, more structured, and more effective, helping you reach a 140 score on the DET Interactive Writing section.

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