English Letter Writing Guide (Exam Preparation)
1. Types of Letters
A. Informal Letters
- Written to friends, family, or known people
- Tone: friendly, personal, casual
B. Formal Letters
- Written to officials, institutions, companies, or unknown people
- Tone: polite, professional, structured
2. Letter Formats
Informal Letter Format
Sender’s Address Date
Dear [Name],
[Opening line - greeting and reason for writing]
[Main content - details, feelings, message]
[Closing line]
Yours lovingly / Yours sincerely / Best wishes, [Your Name]
Formal Letter Format
Sender’s Address Date
Receiver’s Name / Designation Company/Organization Name Address
Subject: [Short and clear topic]
Dear Sir/Madam,
[Opening paragraph - purpose of letter]
[Body paragraph(s) - details]
[Closing paragraph - request/action]
Yours faithfully / Yours sincerely, [Your Name]
3. Do’s and Don’ts
Informal Letters
Do’s
- Use simple and natural language
- Show emotions and personal tone
- Keep it friendly and engaging
- Use contractions (e.g., I’m, can’t)
Don’ts
- Avoid overly formal language
- Do not use complex vocabulary unnecessarily
- Avoid strict structure
Formal Letters
Do’s
- Be clear and concise
- Use polite and respectful language
- Stick to proper format
- Use formal vocabulary
- Keep sentences short and professional
Don’ts
- Avoid slang or casual tone
- Do not use contractions (write “cannot” instead of “can’t”)
- Avoid emotional or personal expressions
- Do not make grammar mistakes
4. Examples
Informal Letter Example 1
12 Green Street Bangalore 24 March 2026
Dear Rahul,
How are you? I hope everything is going well at your end. I wanted to tell you about my recent trip to Mysore. It was an amazing experience, and I enjoyed visiting the palace and gardens.
I wish you were there with me. We could have had so much fun together. Let’s plan a trip soon.
Take care and write back soon.
Yours lovingly, Aryan
Informal Letter Example 2
45 Lake View Road Bangalore 24 March 2026
Dear Ankit,
I hope you are doing well. I just wanted to congratulate you on your exam results. You have done an excellent job!
Keep up the good work. Let’s catch up sometime this week.
Best wishes, Aryan
Formal Letter Example 1 (Job Application)
12 Green Street Bangalore 24 March 2026
The Hiring Manager ABC Technologies Bangalore
Subject: Application for Software Developer Position
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to apply for the Software Developer position at your company. I have completed my degree in Computer Science and have experience in web development.
I am confident that my skills and knowledge make me a suitable candidate for this role. I have attached my resume for your reference.
I would appreciate the opportunity to attend an interview.
Yours sincerely, Aryan
Formal Letter Example 2 (Complaint Letter)
45 Lake View Road Bangalore 24 March 2026
The Manager XYZ Internet Services Bangalore
Subject: Complaint Regarding Poor Internet Service
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with the internet service provided by your company. The connection has been very unstable for the past two weeks.
This issue is affecting my work, and I request you to resolve it as soon as possible.
I hope for a quick response and solution.
Yours faithfully, Aryan
5. Quick Exam Tips
- Follow format strictly (marks are given for it)
- Keep handwriting neat and clear
- Stick to word limits
- Do not mix formal and informal tone
- Always include subject in formal letters