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How to Write Letters in English ✉ (formal & informal)

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So you want to write letters in English. These simple guide will help you to write a well organized letters in English. Writing letters in English, both formal and informal, is an essential skill. Here’s a guide on how to write them:

How to Write Formal Letters:

1. Address and Date:

Start with your address at the top right or use letterhead. Skip a line and add the date.

2. Recipient’s Address:

Skip another line and add the recipient’s name, address, and job title, if applicable.

3. Salutation:

Begin with a formal salutation, like “Dear Mr. Smith” or “Dear Sir/Madam.”

4. Opening Paragraph:

State the purpose of your letter in a clear and concise manner. For example, “I am writing to inquire about…”

5. Body of the Letter:

Explain your reason for writing in detail. Use separate paragraphs for different points.

6. Closing Paragraph:

Summarize your main points and suggest possible actions. Express gratitude when necessary.

7. Closing Salutation:

Use a formal closing, such as “Sincerely” or “Yours faithfully.”

8. Signature:

Sign your name in the space between the closing and your typed name.

9. Enclosures:

If you’re including any documents, mention them at the end of the letter.

10. Postscript (optional):

Add any extra information here.

How to Write Informal Letters:

1. Address and Date:

Begin with your address in the top right, or simply start with the date.

2. Greeting:

Use a casual greeting like “Hi” or “Hello,” followed by the recipient’s first name.

3. Introduction:

Begin with a friendly opening, for example, “I hope this letter finds you well.”

4. Body of the Letter:

Share your news, thoughts, or stories. Be conversational and informal in tone.

5. Closing:

End the letter with a personal closing, such as “Take care” or “Best wishes.”

6. Signature:

Sign your name by hand.

7. Postscript (optional):

Add any additional thoughts or comments here.

Key Tips for Both:

Be clear and concise.
Use paragraphs to separate different ideas.
Be polite and respectful in your tone.
Adjust your language to the relationship between you and the recipient.
Proofread your letter for errors before sending it.

Sample – Letter to a Relative

“Dear Aunt Mary,

How are you? I haven’t seen you for a few months, so I thought I should write you a letter and say “Hi!”

I have been pretty good lately. I will finish elementary school soon, and I can’t wait to go to junior high! Last week, I got a perfect score on my biology test, so my parents took my out to eat ice cream and watch a movie!

Summer will be here soon, and I am very excited for summer vacation. I hope to join a baseball team. I want to be a pitcher, but I know that I need to practice because right now I am not good enough. Maybe you can come watch me play sometime! That would be great!

Well, that’s all for now. I hope to see you soon. I will have a birthday party in July. I hope you can come! And I hope you are well. If you have time, please write me back!

Love,

Your nephew,
Brian”