Which aspect of writing is assessed when candidates are instructed to use specific formats, like letters or reports?

When candidates are instructed to use specific formats, such as letters or reports, they are being assessed on genre-specific writing skills. Each writing genre has its own conventions, structures, and styles that writers must adhere to in order to effectively communicate their message within that format. For instance, the structure of a formal letter differs significantly from that of a creative story or a persuasive essay.

Understanding these specific requirements allows candidates to demonstrate their ability to appropriately apply the conventions of the genre, making their writing suitable for its intended purpose. This includes knowing how to format the document, what tone to adopt, and the types of content that should be included, such as salutations and conclusions in letters or data presentation in reports. Mastery of genre-specific writing is essential for clear communication in various professional and academic contexts.