If you are preparing for the intermediate Finnish language test, studying real YKI message writing examples is one of the most effective ways to study. The short message writing task requires you to respond quickly and accurately to everyday situations, such as apologizing, asking for information, or giving feedback.
In this guide, we will look at three realistic scenarios. We will provide a complete Finnish message sample for each, an English translation, and a detailed breakdown of exactly why these YKI practice answers would earn a passing grade from an examiner.
Analyzing YKI Message Writing Examples for Success
Before we look at the specific YKI writing examples, remember that examiners evaluate your text based on three main factors: task completion (did you answer all the bullet points?), understandability (is the message clear?), and register (is the tone appropriate for the recipient?).
Scenario 1: Canceling Plans with a Friend (Informal)
The Exam Prompt:
You had plans to go to the movies with your friend, Mikko. Write a message to him where you:
- Apologize for canceling.
- Explain why you cannot come.
- Suggest a new time to meet.
Finnish Answer
Moi Mikko,
Anteeksi, mutta en pääse tänään elokuviin. Olen vähän sairas ja minulla on kuumetta, joten minun täytyy levätä kotona.
Sopiiko sinulle, jos menemme ensi viikonloppuna? Esimerkiksi lauantaina klo 18?
Terveisin,
Alex
English Translation
Hi Mikko,
Sorry, but I cannot make it to the movies today. I am a little sick and have a fever, so I have to rest at home.
Does it suit you if we go next weekend? For example, on Saturday at 18:00?
Regards,
Alex
Why this passes:
- Task Completion: All three prompt requirements (apologize, explain, suggest new time) are explicitly addressed.
- Appropriate Tone: Uses a casual, friendly greeting (Moi) and a standard sign-off (Terveisin) perfect for a friend.
- Clarity: The reason for canceling (olen vähän sairas) is simple and grammatically correct.
Scenario 2: Requesting Information (Formal)
When communicating with a business or an official, you need a formal Finnish message sample. You must use the correct pronouns and polite phrasing.
The Exam Prompt:
You want to start taking swimming lessons. Write an email to the local swimming hall where you:
- Say which course you are interested in.
- Ask about the price of the course.
- Ask what equipment you need to bring.
Finnish Answer
Hei,
Olen kiinnostunut aikuisten uimakoulusta, joka alkaa lokakuussa. Onko kurssilla vielä tilaa?
Haluaisin myös kysyä, kuinka paljon kurssi maksaa. Lisäksi haluaisin tietää, mitä varusteita minun pitää ottaa mukaan. Riittääkö uimapuku ja pyyhe?
Kiitos tiedoista etukäteen!
Ystävällisin terveisin,
Maria Virtanen
English Translation
Hello,
I am interested in the adult swimming school that starts in October. Is there still space on the course?
I would also like to ask how much the course costs. Furthermore, I would like to know what equipment I need to bring. Is a swimsuit and towel enough?
Thank you for the information in advance!
Best regards,
Maria Virtanen
Why this passes:
- Polite Structure: Uses polite conditional forms (Haluaisin kysyä, haluaisin tietää) which demonstrates a good grasp of formal register.
- Formatting: The use of "Hei," and "Ystävällisin terveisin," is perfectly suited for customer service emails.
- Vocabulary: Relevant vocabulary like varusteet (equipment) and uimakoulu (swimming school) are used accurately.
Scenario 3: Giving Constructive Feedback
Writing feedback or a complaint is a very common task. Reviewing these YKI practice answers will help you learn how to complain politely without sounding overly aggressive.
The Exam Prompt:
You bought a coffee machine from a store yesterday, but it is broken. Write a message to the store where you:
- Explain when you bought the machine.
- Describe what the problem is.
- State what you want the store to do about it.
Finnish Answer
Hei asiakaspalvelu,
Ostin teiltä eilen kahvinkeittimen, mutta huomasin kotona, että se on rikki. Kone ei mene päälle ollenkaan, kun laitan töpselin seinään.
Olen hyvin pettynyt. Haluaisin palauttaa tuotteen ja saada rahani takaisin, tai vaihtaa sen uuteen toimivaan keittimeen. Minulla on kuitti tallessa.
Odotan vastaustanne.
Terveisin,
Ahmed
English Translation
Hello customer service,
I bought a coffee maker from you yesterday, but I noticed at home that it is broken. The machine doesn't turn on at all when I plug it into the wall.
I am very disappointed. I would like to return the product and get my money back, or exchange it for a new working maker. I have saved the receipt.
I look forward to your reply.
Regards,
Ahmed
Why this passes:
- Clear Timeline: Accurately uses past tense to explain the purchase (Ostin teiltä eilen...).
- Problem Description: Clearly describes the issue using practical vocabulary (Kone ei mene päälle...).
- Direct Demand: Stating the desired resolution (saada rahani takaisin tai vaihtaa sen...) explicitly satisfies the final prompt requirement.