REVIEW WRITING
A review is a piece of writing someone writes expressing
their opinion about something such as a new product or
service.
Review writing could be for:
1. Books, Movies, or TV shows
2. Places such as hotels, restaurants, cafés, cinemas,
amusement parks, shopping centres, museums,
gyms, etc.
3. Events such as concerts, festivals, exhibitions, trips,
etc.
4. Digital or physical products or services such as apps,
games (video games, board games, etc.), websites,
courses, products (such as electronics or appliances)
The main purpose of a review is to give your
opinion about something. The review needs to engage
the audience from the beginning to the end.
The tone and register of a review
The tone of the review can be personal and informal. If
writing for adults the style may be more formal than if
writing for teenagers. But in both cases, you should
sound professional as if you know about the
subject.
If the review is for the school magazine, then the main
audience is the students at your school. Therefore, the
register should be informal to semi-formal but
should avoid language that is too colloquial.
The ideal format of a review
Introduction: Provide general information about what is
being reviewed
Body (2-3 paragraphs): Give your opinions and
highlight interesting points about some aspects (e.g. the
facilities of a museum, the special effects in a film, the
quality of food/service in a restaurant, etc.)
Conclusion: Give your overall opinion and
recommendation
Catchy Title
The title should include the name of what is being
reviewed. Here are some examples:
Discover Your Talent — A Course Review
Samsung Galaxy S24 Review
Fitness Time: The Best Gym in Accra?
Book Review: Cinderella
Introduction
The purpose of the introduction is to inform the reader
about what is being reviewed and engage the
reader to make them interested and continue reading.
Features of an effective introduction are:
1. Something to engage the reader from the
beginning right away such as a rhetorical question or
an attractive statement highlighting a unique aspect
of what you’re reviewing.
2. General information about what is being
reviewed. This will depend on what you’re
reviewing. For example, if you are writing a film
review, you should mention its name, genre and the
director’s name.
Example:
“Do you love superfast rollercoasters and other exciting
rides that make your hair stand on end? If so, then Sky
Zone Amusement Park is a must-visit. My friends and I
visited it recently, and we were blown away!”
Body
In the body,
1. Mention more relevant details of what’s being
reviewed
2. Mention your personal opinion (what you liked
and/or disliked), while providing evidence,
reasons or examples. You can write entirely
positively, entirely negatively or have a balanced
approach
Conclusion
The purpose of the conclusion is to give your overall
opinion and recommendation.
In the conclusion, make sure to say whether you
recommend this movie/book/product/service, etc. and to
whom, stating why.
Examples of useful concluding phrases:
In a nutshell, you should definitely read/watch/use …
All in all, I strongly/highly recommend …
On the whole, I wouldn’t recommend it (in view of
the fact that … / because …)
Overall, it’s worth seeing/reading/using …
I strongly advise you (not) to …
It’s more suited for …
It will change the way you see…
Don’t miss it!
It’s absolutely worth a visit!
If you like …, then (the name of the
movie/restaurant/course, etc.) is definitely for you!
If you’re looking for a …, don’t give it a second
thought!
Here is an example of an effective conclusion.
“I strongly recommend Sky Zone Park to anyone who
wants to have an unforgettable experience whether
alone, with friends or family. It’s absolutely worth a visit!”
SPECIAL TYPES OF REVIEW WRITING
Book review
Paragraph 1: Introduction
Paragraph 2: Summary of the book
Paragraph 3: What you liked
Paragraph 4: What you disliked
Paragraph 5: Overall opinion and recommendation
Introduction
In the introduction,
1. Start with something to engage the reader such
as a rhetorical question or an attractive statement
about something bold in this book that makes the
reader want to know more.
2. Summarize the main background information
of the book, for example, the book title, its genre
(fiction, non-fiction, sci-fi, fantasy, mystery, etc.) and
author’s name.
Here is an example book review introduction. “Have you
ever been so inspired by a book that it completely
changes your perception of life? If not, then I suggest you
read “Cinderella” by Brothers Grimm.
Body
In the 1st body paragraph, write an outline of the
story (do not describe the whole story, especially the
ending). Use the present tense.
Here are some useful phrases for this part of the review:
The plot focuses on/revolves around/involves …
Set in …, this marvelous story explains …
This is an enchanting story of …
In the 2nd (and 3rd) body paragraph(s), mention what
you liked and/or disliked and state why, giving
examples if possible.
You could write about:
The plot (captivating, entertaining, fascinating,
thrilling, predictable, confusing, implausible, etc.)
The author’s writing style ( Does it suit the book’s
genre?). You can write, for example, “The writer does
a fantastic job in combining … with … /
The writer skilfully combines … with …”
The writer attempts to …, but fails miserably …
What you learned
How the book made you feel? Were you satisfied
by the book’s ending?
Note: don’t mention the ending itself; just how it
made you feel (e.g. The book was heart-touching//
The book had me hypnotised! // It kept me absorbed
from the beginning to the end! // I couldn’t stop
reading it until the end! // I was impressed by… //
What struck me most was… // , etc.)
Conclusion
In the final paragraph, give your overall opinion and
recommendation (whether you recommend it or not, and
if yes, to whom and why? If not, why not?).
Examples of concluding phrases have been mentioned
earlier.
Film Review
Paragraph 1: Introduction
Paragraph 2: Setting of the film and main plot
Paragraph 3: What you liked
Paragraph 4: What you disliked
Paragraph 5: Overall opinion and recommendation
Introduction
In the introduction,
Start with something to engage the reader such
as a rhetorical question or an attractive statement
about something bold in this movie that makes the
reader want to know more.
Mention general information about the movie,
for example, the movie’s title, its genre (sci-fi,
comedy, thriller, horror, etc.) and the director’s
name.
Here is an example of an effective film review
introduction:
“Are you looking for an intriguing action-packed film
where you can turn off your brain and enjoy the ride? If
so, then “London Has Fallen”, directed by Babak Najafi is
the film for you!”
Body
In the 1st body paragraph, mention the setting of the
film (place and time) and an overview of the plot,
including the main character(s) and plot twists (if any).
Don’t describe the full story, especially the ending. Use
the present tense.
Here are some useful phrases for this part of the review.
The plot focuses on/revolves around/involves …
Set in (time and place), the movie …
… provides the setting for …
As the film opens, …
In the 2nd (and 3rd) body paragraph(s), mention what
you liked and/or disliked about the film and state
why, giving examples if possible. For example, you
could write about:
The plot (captivating, entertaining, thrilling, fast-
paced, predictable, confusing, implausible, etc.)
The acting
(excellent/exceptional/remarkable/awful/unconvincin
g/weak, etc.)
The script (e.g. the script is dull/exciting/clever/witty,
etc.)
The special effects (realistic, brilliant, spectacular,
breathtaking, mediocre, terrible, etc.)
How the movie made you feel (the film literally
brought tears to my eyes// The film was heart-
touching// The film was heart-pounding // I was on
the edge of my seat the whole time// I didn’t want to
miss a scene! // I was impressed by… // What struck
me most was… // By the final scene I was already
half-asleep, etc.)
It’s also important to note that you should focus on the
main things rather than writing about every aspect
of the film. Writing a few well-developed points is better
than many unjustified ones.
Conclusion
In the final paragraph, give your overall opinion and
recommendation (whether you recommend it or not, and
if yes, to whom and why? If not, why not? Is it suitable
families? Why?).
Examples of concluding phrases have been mentioned
earlier.
Here are some useful expressions for describing a movie:
The film combines (suspense) with (horror) …
a must-see
a box-office success/failure
a blockbuster
a masterpiece
well-worth seeing
not to be missed
Important points to keep in mind
Include film-related vocabulary in your review, e.g.
lead role, actors, director, plot, script, special effects,
etc.
Any expression you use should be consistent with
your opinion of the film. For example, if you’re
writing positively about the film, it’s not appropriate
to write “By the final scene I was already half-
asleep”!
Place Review
Restaurant/Cafe Review
Paragraph 1: Introduction
Paragraph 2: What you liked OR disliked (mention 2
points)
Paragraph 3: What you liked OR disliked (mention
another 2 points)
Paragraph 4: Overall opinion and recommendation
OR
Paragraph 1: Introduction
Paragraph 2: What you liked
Paragraph 3: What you disliked
Paragraph 4: Overall opinion and recommendation
The 2nd and 3rd paragraphs don’t have to be balanced. For
example, in an overall positive review, you can write 3
points you liked about the restaurant and only 1 point
you disliked
Introduction
In the introduction,
1. Start with something to engage the reader such as a
rhetorical question or an attractive statement about
something unique in this restaurant that makes the
reader want to know more.
2. Mention general information about the restaurant, for
example, its name, its location, when it opened, why
you visited it, and with whom you visited it (if any).
Note that you don’t have to mention all these details
and that some of them, such as its location or when
it opened, can be included in the 2nd paragraph.
Body
In the 2nd and 3rd paragraphs, mention what you liked
and/or disliked according to the format you choose.
You can write about:
1. Location (the city? close to/far from? Is it easily
accessible?)
2. Its physical features (if any striking one, e.g. extreme
size, unusual architectural shape, etc.)
3. The food: type of food (fast-food, fine dining), food
options (varied, limited), taste (delicious, mouth-
watering, lip-smacking, scrumptious, appetizing //
awful, overcooked, salty, etc.)
4. Staff (polite, helpful, friendly, amiable // awful, rude,
unskilled, careless, slow, etc.)
5. Setting: décor (modern, contemporary, magnificent,
etc.), atmosphere (lively, soothing // dull, crowded,
noisy, etc.)
6. Cleanliness (immaculate, spotless, tidy // filthy, dirty,
untidy, etc.)
7. Price (expensive, exorbitant, overpriced //
inexpensive, affordable, reasonable, low-priced, etc.)
Here are some useful phrases for this part of the review:
Located in …, this (sumptuous, luxurious,
sophisticated, impeccable, exceptional, or any other
suitable adjective) restaurant offers …
As you enter the place, you …
Just as you step in, …
The ambience of the restaurant was …
The menu offers …
What I particularly enjoyed was …
I was pleasantly surprised by …
The best thing about it is …
However, I disliked …
I was disappointed by …
I was extremely dissatisfied by …
What you may find unfavourable is …
Describe the restaurant in the present tense and describe
your experience in the past tense. Remember to write
about the important parts of the experience, not every
detail.
Conclusion
In the final paragraph, mention your overall opinion and
recommendation (Do you recommend it or not? If yes, to
whom and why? If not, why not? Is it suitable for
families?).
Examples of concluding phrases have been mentioned
earlier.
Other places
Paragraph 1: Introduction
Paragraph 2: What you liked OR disliked (mention 2
points)
Paragraph 3: What you liked OR disliked (mention
another 2 points)
Paragraph 4: Overall opinion and recommendation
OR
Paragraph 1: Introduction
Paragraph 2: What you liked
Paragraph 3: What you disliked
Paragraph 4: Overall opinion and recommendation
Introduction
In the introduction,
1. Start with something to engage the reader such
as a rhetorical question or an interesting point about
it, such as its exploding popularity, its long-awaited
opening, etc.
2. Mention general information about the place,
for example, its name, its location, when it opened,
why you visited it, and with whom you visited it. Note
that you don’t have to mention all these details and
that some of them, such as location, can be included
in the 2nd paragraph as part of your opinion about
the place. For example, the following sentence could
be used to begin the 2nd body paragraph: “Located
right at the heart of (city name), (place) is easily
accessible by car.”
Body
In the 2nd and 3rd paragraphs, mention what you liked
and/ or disliked according to the format you choose.
You can write about:
1. Location (the city? close to/far from? Is it easily
accessible?)
2. Its physical features (if any striking one, e.g. extreme
size, unusual architectural shape, etc.)
3. Atmosphere (lively, soothing // dull, crowded, noisy,
etc.)
4. Cleanliness (immaculate, spotless, tidy // filthy, dirty,
untidy, etc.)
5. Facilities (depends on the place you’re reviewing.
For example, in a gym review, you could write about
the variety of gym equipment available and whether
there’s personal coaching; and in a shopping centre,
you could write about the variety of shops available
and whether there’s a children’s play area.)
6. Price (expensive, exorbitant, overpriced //
inexpensive, affordable, reasonable, low-priced, etc.)
Here are some useful phrases for this part of the review:
Located in …, this (sumptuous, luxurious,
sophisticated, impeccable, exceptional, or any other
suitable adjective) (place) offers …
As you enter the place, you …
Just as you step in, …
The ambience of the place was …
The place offers …
What I particularly enjoyed was …
I was pleasantly surprised by …
The best thing about it is …
However, I disliked …
I was disappointed by …
I was extremely dissatisfied by …
What you may find unfavourable is …
Describe the place in the present tense and describe your
experience in the past tense. Remember to write about
the important parts of the experience, not every detail.
Conclusion
In the final paragraph, mention your overall opinion and
recommendation (Do you recommend it or not? If yes, to
whom and why? If not, why not? Is it suitable for families?
Why?).
Examples for concluding phrases have been mentioned
earlier.
Event Review
Paragraph 1: Introduction
Paragraph 2: What you liked OR disliked (mention 2
points)
Paragraph 3: What you liked OR disliked (mention
another 2 points)
Paragraph 4: Overall opinion and recommendation
OR
Paragraph 1: Introduction
Paragraph 2: What you liked (mention 2 points)
Paragraph 3: What you disliked (mention 2 points)
Paragraph 4: Overall opinion and recommendation
Introduction
In the introduction,
1. Start with something to engage the reader such
as a rhetorical question or an attractive statement
about something unique in this event that makes the
reader want to know more.
2. Mention general information about the event,
for example, its name, location, when it’s held, why
you visited it, and with whom you visited it. Some of
these details can also be mentioned in the following
paragraph.
Body
In the 2nd and 3rd paragraphs, mention what you liked
and/or disliked according to the format you choose.
You can write about:
1. Location (the city? close to/far from? Is it easily
accessible?)
2. The program of the event (For example, what band
will be playing in the concert? What’s their album
name? What will be displayed in the exhibition?)
3. The performance, including the stage lightening and
the musicians’ attire (if it’s a concert or a festival)
4. Atmosphere and sounds (lively, boisterous // dull,
crowded, noisy, etc.)
5. How did it make you and the audience feel?
(fascinated, excited, mesmerized, captivated,
enthusiastic// didn’t live up to my expectations, dull,
etc.)
6. Ticket price (expensive, exorbitant, overpriced //
inexpensive, affordable, reasonable, low-priced, etc.)
Conclusion
In the conclusion, mention your overall opinion and
recommendation (Do you recommend attending this
event or not? If yes, to whom and why? If not, why not?)
Examples for concluding phrases have been mentioned
earlier.
Product Review
Paragraph 1: Introduction
Paragraph 2: Positive aspects of the product
Paragraph 3: Negative aspects of the product
Paragraph 4: Overall opinion and recommendation
Introduction
In the introduction,
1. Start with something to engage the reader such
as a rhetorical question or an attractive statement
about something unique in this product that makes
the reader want to know more.
2. Mention general information about the
product, for example, its name, the brand name,
and its release date. You could also include when you
bought it, why you bought it and your first
impression.
Body
In the 2nd and 3rd paragraphs, mention the positive
and/or negative aspects of the product according to the
format you choose.
You can write about:
1. The product’s core features and your comment on
them
2. The benefits and uses of the product
3. Any notable improvements or changes to previous
versions (if applicable), and your comment on them
(Are they useful? Not many? Disappointing?)
4. Price (mention its price and comment on it:
expensive, exorbitant, overpriced // inexpensive,
affordable, reasonable, low-priced, etc.)
Conclusion
In the conclusion, mention your overall opinion and
recommendation (Is it worth buying? Why? Why not? Who
are the target users?).
Examples of concluding phrases have been mentioned
earlier.
Points to keep in mind
Dos:
Organize your review into 4-5
paragraphs. Leave a line between paragraphs or
indent the first line of each new paragraph. Don’t do
both!
Take care of spelling, punctuation, and
grammar. This is important as the examiner will
look at the accuracy of your language.
Use a wide range of cohesive devices and
linking words. Here are some examples:
Addition: and, also, as well as, plus, what’s more,
apart from that, not only … but also …, but that’s not
all, above all, and best of all, on top of that, one of
the best things …
Contrast: but, yet, though, while, however
Reasoning: because, as, so, that’s why, for this
reason,
Giving examples: for example, like
Highlighting and stressing: specifically, especially
Use a combination of simple, compound, and
complex sentences. A series of long sentences will
make your writing difficult to read, and a series of
short simple sentences will make your writing boring
to read. Balance is the key.
Place longer sentences next to shorter ones for
a dramatic effect.
Use a wide range of vocabulary, including
some advanced and less commonly used
ones. Don’t use common adjectives such as happy,
nice, bad, sad, etc. Try to think of more advanced
and interesting alternatives such as ecstatic,
pleasant, terrible, heartbroken, etc. We recommend
reading a lot of samples to improve your vocabulary.
You can find them on our samples page.
Use a variety of adjectives and adverbs
Include a range of topic-related vocabulary to
show that you have a good understanding of
the topic. For example, if you’re writing a film
review, you could include vocabulary such as
“director, “cast”, “special effects”, “scene”,
“protagonist”, “blockbuster”, etc.
Use advanced punctuation sparingly (1-3 in the
whole review), for example, colon (:), semicolon (;)
and em dash (—).
Aim to complete towards the maximum word
limit (approximately 160 words). Exceeding the
word limit slightly (15-20 words) is fine as long as
you write accurately and complete the task within
the correct time. If you exceed the word limit by any
number of words, no marks will be cut directly, but
you increase your chances of making more mistakes
and spending more time than required for this
exercise, which may affect your mark indirectly. If
you write towards the lower limit or below, you are
highly unlikely to achieve the highest band for
Content as your content is not well developed.
Develop your content by including reasons,
evidence or examples to support the opinions
expressed.
Spend about 30 minutes on this exercise: the
initial 5 minutes for planning and the last 2-3
minutes for checking your work for simple spelling
and grammatical mistakes.
Include your audience throughout by using
pronouns such as “we”, “us” and “you”.
Use phrasal verbs, examples: pick up, left off,
takes you on, etc.
Use contractions but stay away from ones which
are too informal such as wanna, gonna, etc.
Write legibly
Don’ts
Avoid writing very simple sentences with
simple vocabulary, e.g. “The film is very nice. The
actors are also good, and the story is also great.”
Avoid repetition of vocabulary and beginning
your sentences with the same
words. Sometimes students write 3 or more
sentences in a row starting with “The” or “I”!
Avoid very formal linking words and
vocabulary like “moreover”, “furthermore”, etc. as
this may have a negative effect on the target
audience (i.e. other students if you’re writing for your
school magazine).
Avoid abbreviations and slang (texting language)
such as, wanna, gonna, etc.
Avoid listing (firstly, secondly, thirdly, etc.). If
necessary, you might use other informal alternatives
to “firstly”, such as “To start with”, “For a start”, or
“For starters”, but listing is not preferred
whatsoever.
Avoid including too many different ideas in
your review. It is better to include fewer ideas and
develop one or two in greater depth rather than
writing many ideas which are not well-developed.
