Written Exercises

Start with these three​

1. Structure a clear answer for your reader — Jacob Miller
   How to use an executive summary, organise your analysis and adapt your language to a client or a partner.
2. Turn a list of issues into useful analysis — Dheepa
   How to explain the effect on the client, weigh the options and reach a recommendation.
3. Plan your time and organise your ideas — Andrei Radu
   Read the written-task section for advice on dividing your time, reading efficiently and separating facts from analysis. The same reply also covers Group Exercises.

How do I identify the commercial issues?​

• Separate commercial considerations from legal ones — Ram Sabaratnam
  A checklist of financial, strategic and operational questions to consider when assessing a business decision.
• Work through a case study from the beginning — Jacob Miller
  A longer guide to reading the brief, analysing the material and presenting your answer. Look for the section on structuring a written assessment.

How should I present my answer?​

• See an example email structure — George Maxwell
  George shares an example of how to organise an email around the issues, your recommendations and next steps.
• Keep your answer focused and precise — Axel (axelbeugre)
  Practical reminders about reading the brief, answering the questions, avoiding repetition and using the right email formalities.

How do I avoid running out of time?​

• Leave enough time to write your answer — Gemma (WillkieGemma)
  Gemma explains why candidates need to leave enough time to write their answer, rather than spending too long reading and planning.

What if I am asked to mark up a document?​

• Check a document for errors and inconsistencies — TCLA Community Assistant
  What to look for in a mark-up exercise, including names, numbers, dates, ambiguous wording and the order of information.

Put it into practice​

• Free TCLA written case study (PDF)
  Have a go at one of our written Case Studies.
• Practise a TCLA Written Exercise with feedback
  Details of TCLA’s paid written exercise service and how to book.