Letter-writing is an essential part of the English syllabus for students, especially in secondary grades. In this digital era, people prefer social media rather than letters. But, students should know how to write a letter, as they might require the skill in the future. We should know the skill of letter writing because if we want any governmental work to be done, we need to write a letter. Letter writing can be divided into formal letters and informal letters.
In this article, we will be talking about the types and the format of formal and informal letters. Students need to know the difference between writing a formal and an informal letter format so that they don’t get confused when asked in the exam.
Types of Formal Letter
- Order letter
- Letter to the principal
- Letter to the editor
- Order letter
- Letter to the government
- Business letter
- Complaint letter
- Application letter for job.
- Resignation Letter
- Leave Application
- Letter to the Bank Manager
- Invitation letter
Format of a Formal Letter
While writing a formal letter, students should keep the following points in mind:
- When students write a formal letter, they should strictly follow the prescribed format.
- It should be precise and to the point. Avoid slang language, colloquial words, and abbreviations while writing a formal letter.
- The subject line is essential in a formal letter.
- In a formal letter, the subject is necessary.
The Formal Letter Format
Sender’s address: Here, we need to mention the contact details and address of the sender. If mentioned or asked in the question, you need to mention your email address and contact details.
Date: You should mention the exact date below the sender’s address after leaving one space.
Receiver’s address: You need to write the recipient’s address (the officer/principal/editor) in this segment.
The letter’s subject: The subject should convey the letter’s content and be written in one line.
Salutation (Respected Sir / Sir/ Madam)
6. Body: In this part, you need to write the exact purpose of the letter, which is divided into three parts.
Para 1: Introduce yourself and, in short, write the reason for writing the letter.
Para 2: Explain the matter in detail.
Para 3: In conclusion, mention your expectations.
7. Complimentary closing
8. Sender’s name, signature and designation (if any)
Informal Letter | How to write an Informal Letter
An informal letter is a letter written for an informal or casual purpose.
Types of Informal letter
- Letter to classmates
- Letter to siblings
- Letter to neighbours
- Letter to parents
- Informal letter to a friend
Informal Letter Format
We should remember the following points while writing an informal letter.
- When we write an informal letter, we are not restricted to following any prescribed format.
- It should be casual and friendly.
- You can add extra information in an informal letter.
- In an informal letter, there is no need for the subject line.
The Informal Letter Format
1. Address: The address part consists of the sender’s address followed by the receiver’s.
2. Date: After leaving one line, the date is mentioned below the address.
3. Greeting / Salutation (Hi / Dear / Hello)
4. Body: The body contains the content of the letter, divided into three paragraphs as follows –
Para 1: Beginning
Para 2: Main content
Para 3: Ending
5. Mention the sender’s name along with the signature.
Students should understand the importance of letter writing. Besides helping them get good marks in their English exam, they will also require it in the future. Students also need to go through various speech topics, article writing, etc., when they start preparing for the English exam.
