2026 BECE English Composition: Secrets, Tips, and Projected Topics

The 2026 BECE begins on Monday, 4th May 2026, starting with English Language—a core subject that is mandatory to pass. A critical component of Paper 2 is the English Composition (Creativity) section, which carries 30 out of the 60 marks allocated to Section B.

Over the years, WAEC has proven to be predictable regarding the types of questions asked in the composition section. To make the 2026 English Composition section a "walk in the park," the SkulNews team at SkulManager.com has unpacked the secrets, tips, and projected topics for the examination. We provide the smart ideas and skills students need to score at least 25 out of 30 on their chosen questions.

What are the traditional BECE English composition topics?

The English Composition section typically draws from 7 traditional topics, from which WAEC selects only three for candidates. The three most frequently tested areas are the following:

1. Formal Letters: The most tested area in nearly every exam, including the 2024 and 2025 BECE.

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2. Informal Letters: The second most tested area.

3. Narrative Essays: Frequently tested, including in the 2024 and 2025 BECE.

4. Articles for Publication: Also a staple of the BECE.

5. Speech Writing: Rarely tested but remains important.

6. Debates and Argumentative Essays: Rarely tested but important.

Less frequently tested areas include the following:

• Minutes writing

• Report writing

• Descriptive essays

Projected 2026 BECE English Composition Topics

Based on WAEC’s historical data, here are the projected topics for 2026, categorized by their likelihood of appearing:

It is evident that WAEC is likely to follow the format used in the 2024 and 2025 BECE. In both years, questions centered around formal letters, friendly (informal) letters, articles, and narratives. Notably, WAEC rarely sets a BECE English paper that does not include a narrative essay.

Furthermore, WAEC often chooses between a formal and an informal letter for any given year; it is rare to see both in the same exam. Because the formal features and writing style of formal letters often confuse candidates, WAEC frequently prefers them. This creates challenges for students who have not mastered the specific format, leading to errors like mixing formal features with informal "friendly" letter styles.

Insights from the Chief Examiner's Report

The 2023 WAEC BECE Chief Examiner's Report (the most recent official report) confirms why formal letters remain a staple. In the Summary of Weaknesses, WAEC noted that candidates often mix the features of formal letters with article writing. Common errors include:

• Omitting the recipient’s address.

• Writing the name before the signature in the subscription (it should be "Yours faithfully," then the signature first, then the full name).

• Failing to include the writer's name and address at the end of an article.

• Copying the comprehension passage directly into the essay.

Chief Examiner’s Comments on 2023 Topics:

• Q1 (Formal Letter): Many candidates attempted this, and the general performance was good, provided they included all formal features.

• Q2 (Narrative): Performance was below average. Few candidates attempted it, and many stories lacked a logical flow toward the required ending: "Indeed, it was a great achievement."

• Q3 (Article): Performance was strong. Candidates were mindful of features like the heading and the placement of the writer's name at the end.

Since 2023, WAEC has remained consistent with formal letters, narratives, and articles. The 2026 BECE is expected to mirror this trend. Revise these topics thoroughly and use these projections to guide your preparation!