---
title: "Document Type Definition in Shenlun Writing | Model Diplomat"
description: "Document type (文种) refers to the required format for Shenlun answers in Chinese civil service exams, influencing structure and tone."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/document-type"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- Document type (文种) is the prescribed format of administrative or practical writing that a Shenlun answer must adopt, determining its structure, tone, addressee, and signature conventions.
- Why is identifying the document type the first step in a Shenlun applied-writing question?
- How does a 请示 differ from a 报告?
- Which authority governs official document types in China?
- What three coordinates in the prompt reveal the required document type?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

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Example

In China's 2023 national Guokao Shenlun paper, candidates were directed to draft a 倡议书 (initiative) mobilising community residents, requiring a title, public addressee, body, and dated signature line.

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