YKI Writing Section: Templates That Work

The YKI writing section (kirjoittaminen) consists of three tasks: a short message (like a note to a neighbor or a text message), an email (formal or semi-formal), and an opinion essay on a given topic. You have 55 minutes to complete all three tasks. Having pre-memorized templates will save you valuable time.

1. The Short Message Template (Viesti)

These are typically notes to neighbors, friends, or daycare workers. Keep them short and clear.

Scenario: Inviting neighbors to a talkoot

Hei naapurit!
Järjestämme taloyhtiön talkoot lauantaina 15.6. klo 10 alkaen.
Kokoonnumme takapihalla. Tarjolla on kahvia ja mehua.
Tervetuloa mukaan!
Terveisin, [Nimesi]
      

2. The Professional/Formal Email Template

Used for complaining about a service, booking an appointment, or contacting a landlord.

Structure:

• Greeting: Hei [Vastaanottajan nimi],
• Reason for writing: Kirjoitan teille, koska haluan perua lääkäriajan / ilmoittaa viasta asunnossa. (I am writing because I want to cancel doctor's appointment / report a defect in the apartment.)
• Details: Explain the situation clearly. Keep sentences simple.
• Closing request: Voisitteko vahvistaa tämän viestin? (Could you confirm this message?)
• Sign-off: Ystävällisin terveisin, [Nimesi]

3. The Opinion Essay Template (Mielipidekirjoitus)

Here you must write an essay defending an opinion on issues like public transport, recycling, or screen time for children.

Sentence Starters for Essays:

• Minun mielestäni... (In my opinion...)
• Olen sitä mieltä, että... (I am of the opinion that...)
• Toisaalta... toisaalta... (On one hand... on the other hand...)
• Yhteenvetona voidaan sanoa, että... (In conclusion, it can be said that...)

Practice Writing with YKIprep

Submit your written texts to the YKIprep AI engine. The AI evaluates your spelling, grammar, and sentence structure, giving you a projected YKI band score and pointing out exactly how to improve your phrasing.