application letter is formal or informal

• Key Differences

Know the Differences & Comparisons

Difference Between Formal and Informal Letter

On the contrary, informal letters are written to friends and relative for personal communication and uses a casual or an emotional tone. The article excerpt presents you all the important differences between formal and informal letters in a detailed manner.

Content: Formal Vs Informal Letters

Comparison chart, definition of formal letters.

A formal letter is any letter written in the professional language, with a prescribed format for a formal purpose, i.e. it can be a recommendation letter, enquiry letter, complaint letter, cover letter and so on. All business letters are formal, but vice versa is not possible. Such letters are used for a variety of reasons like a formal invitation, proposal, reference, making a complaint or inquiry, applying for a job. While writing a formal letter one should keep in mind the following things:

• It should be in specified format.
• It should avoid the use of unnecessary words.
• It should be straight to the point.
• It should be relevant and objective.
• It should be complex and thorough.
• It should be polite, even if it is a complaint letter.
• It should be free from any mistakes, i.e. grammatical or spelling.

There are three types of formal letters, i.e. business letters, letters for outlining civic problems and job applications.

Definition of Informal Letters

An informal letter is a letter written to someone; we know fairly well. The letter can be used for some reasons like conveying message, news, giving advice, congratulate recipient, request information, asking questions, etc. It is a personal letter, written to whom you are familiar with, like friends, siblings, parents or any other closed one. There is no specific format prescribed for writing this letter.

While writing an informal letter, one can afford to be friendly, and make use personal or emotional tone. Slang or colloquial terms, codes, abbreviations, etc. can also be used at the time of writing it, depending on the familiarity with the recipient.

Key Differences Between Formal and Informal Letter

The significant points of difference between formal and informal letters are discussed as under:

• A formal letter is one, written in formal language, in the stipulated format, for official purpose. A letter is said to be informal when it is written in a friendly manner, to someone you are familiar with.
• Formal letters are written for official or professional communication. On the other hand, informal letters are used for casual or personal communication.
• There is a manner prescribed for writing formal letters. As opposed to informal communication, which does not follow any format.
• Formal letters are usually written in the third person, however, for business letters, first person is used. On the contrary, informal letters are written in first, second and third person.
• Formal letters are used for writing letters to business, i.e. partners, suppliers, customers, clients, etc. , college or institute, employer, professionals, etc. As against this, we use informal letters for writing letters to friends, relatives, acquaintance, etc.
• While writing formal letters, we use passive voice. Conversely, an active and imperative voice is used.
• The sentences we use at the time of writing a formal letter are, long and complex. Unlike an informal letter, where we use short and simple sentences which are easy to interpret.
• The size of a formal letter should be concise; that does not include irrelevant matter. In contrast, the informal letter can be concise or large.
• Formal letters do not include contraction like (didn’t, can’t) and abbreviations rather it uses full forms. As compared to informal letters, which makes use of contraction, abbreviation, idioms, phrasal verbs and even slang and colloquial terms.

Video: Formal Vs Informal Letter

So, before start writing letter, first of all, you should identify, Who is your recipient? If you are having a professional relationship with the recipient, then you should go for a formal letter, whereas if the recipient is someone very close to you or you know the recipient well, then the informal letter is the right choice for you.

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How to Write an Effective Application Letter [with Example & Tips]

By Sheila Kravitz

11 min read

An application letter is a vital document in any job seeker’s arsenal, at the same level of importance as resumes and cover letters. It’s often an applicant’s first point of contact with recruiters and hiring managers .

So, how do you write an effective job application letter to highlight your skills and experience, capture the potential employer’s attention, and increase your chances of getting a job? These are the questions that we’re going to answer in this article while also giving you concrete examples and expert tips that’ll make your letter shine.

Without further ado, let’s jump right in!

Key Takeaways

An application letter is a document similar to a cover letter or a resume that job seekers submit when they are interested in a role .

The document is similar to a cover letter example , and it should follow business letter formatting .

Before writing an application letter, you should research the company and read the job ad to find out which skills and qualifications are needed.

An introductory paragraph should be attention-grabbing , highlighting the amount of work experience you have and at least one highly impressive accomplishment.

The middle portion of the document should be all about your skills and achievements relevant to the job.

A call to action toward the end of the letter increases your chances of being invited for an interview.

What is a Job Application Letter?

A job application letter is a document that’s in many ways similar to a cover letter. It’s written and sent with the purpose of applying for a job . As such, it should convey valuable information about your skills, experience, and motivation for the role that you’re applying for.

However, while a cover letter is a supplementary document to a resume , a job application letter is typically a standalone document and should be sent without additional attachments. As a result, it needs to be longer and more detailed than a cover letter.

Still, an application letter should be a concise, one-page document that serves as an elevator pitch. Use it to get in touch with potential employers and make a lasting first impression that can secure you an interview and expedite the hiring process.

The Best Way to Format Your Job Application Letter

The best way to format your job application letter is to follow the business letter format and layout . This includes organizing the information in a specific way and ensuring that your document is visually clean.

Here’s how to arrange the information in your application letter:

Job Application Letter Format

Contact information

A formal salutation

A catchy introductory paragraph

The middle portion, with your skills and achievements

A closing paragraph with a call to action

A cordial letter closing with your sign-off

This is the optimal structure to follow when writing a job application letter, as it gives hiring managers the chance to see what they want to see exactly when they want to.

Now let’s see how you can create an impeccable layout for your application letter:

Job Application Letter Layout Guidelines

Your document should be one page long .

Choose an appropriate font for your application letter, like Calibri or Helvetica.

Set the font size between 10 and 12 pt.

Adjust margins to at least 1 inch on all sides.

Use 1.0 or 1.15 line spacing and insert an additional line between paragraphs.

Align text to the left or use justified alignment.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Perfect Application Letter

Let’s learn how to write an application letter for a job with a step-by-step guide that’ll show you how to craft every part of it.

#1. Research the Company

Researching the company is the first step before you even start writing your application letter . This is crucial, as your document has the best chance of garnering attention from hiring managers if it’s tailored and relevant to the position that you’re applying for.

That’s because every job is different, and even similar roles within the same industry require different sets of skills and experiences. By looking into the organization that you want to join, examining the job ad, and paying attention to the requirements, you’ll be able to pinpoint exactly what hiring managers and employers look for in candidates .

After that, you’ll be able to lean on those experiences, as well as the hard and soft skills that you know are necessary for the job. That’ll set you apart from other candidates with generic application letters that don’t entirely match the posted requirements.

#2. Write an Introduction

Writing a strong introductory paragraph is one of the most important steps in the process of crafting an application letter. It’s your way of grabbing the reader’s attention and persuading them to check out the rest of your document.

Hiring managers are busy professionals and sometimes merely skim through application letters , spending just a couple of seconds on each. That’s why you want the first few sentences to be as captivating as possible.

Use this paragraph to mention the position that you’re applying for, emphasize how much experience you have , and highlight one or two particularly notable accomplishments.

Here’s an example:

Introduction Example

I am writing to express my interest in the architect position at Sky Vision Inc., as advertised on your website. With more than 11 years of experience in residential design and project management, as well as a Global Award for Sustainable Architecture under my belt, I am confident that I’ll be able to contribute to your esteemed organization and lead your large-scale projects.

#3. Emphasize Your Skills & Achievements

Once you have the hiring manager’s attention, it’s time to impress them with your unique skills and achievements . Remember that the goal is to be as relevant as possible, so focus on those accomplishments that indicate how you are going to perform in their company should they hire you.

One of the best ways to make this part of your application letter pop is to use numbers for quantification . They add measurable value to your accomplishments, adding credibility to them and making them stand out in the eyes of hiring managers.

Let’s see that in an example:

Emphasize Skills & Achievements Example

I have a proven track record of handling more than 50 projects from inception to completion, within budget, and with no missed deadlines. One of my biggest accomplishments was carrying out a $35 million project and achieving a delivery time 13% faster than the industry standard.

#4. Say Why You’re a Good Fit for the Role

In addition to accentuating your skills and experience, you should stress that you’re the perfect person for the role you’re applying for. This builds on the summary of qualifications that you already talked about to show potential employers how they are going to benefit from hiring you .

To achieve this goal, you can point out the moments when your previous employers prospered from your work , such as how you helped them gain new clients, boost their revenue, improve their business, and more.

Why You’re a Good Fit for the Role Example

Exceptional skills in design software like AutoCAD and Revit, coupled with a commitment to green and user-centric architecture, garnered me a 96% user satisfaction rate and an increase in the company’s repeat business by 67%.

#5. Close Your Letter With a CTA

You should take the opportunity to include a call to action (CTA) toward the end of your application letter. A CTA is a marketing term describing something created to elicit a response .

In terms of an application letter, a CTA can be an invitation for hiring managers to contact you for a job interview . This one simple sentence can vastly improve your chances and secure you the next step in the hiring process.

Close the Letter With CTA Example

Thank you for your time. I would love the opportunity to discuss my qualifications over an interview and explain further how I could contribute to your organization.

Let’s put what we’ve learned into practice and check out a complete application letter example :

Application Letter Example

3 Tips for Crafting an Effective Job Application Letter

Let’s wrap it up with a couple of expert tips that’ll help you craft the best application letter for a job vacancy:

Job Application Letter Writing Tips

Show that you’re interested in the company. Mention something specific about the organization that you want to join that compelled you to apply to them in particular. That’ll set you apart from the competition, as it shows true passion and indicates that you’re already familiar with their work.

Address the reader by their name. Greeting the reader by their name creates a connection right from the get-go. It’s a great way to build rapport and show that you went the extra mile to research the company.

Write a new job application letter for every position. Don’t submit the same application letter every time you apply for a new job. Even slight modifications can still make your document look generic. For maximum chances with recruiters, your best bet is to write a new one every time.

Final Thoughts

Writing a strong application letter is a skill in and of itself. It represents a combination of research skills, communication skills , writing skills , attention to detail, and more. However, learning this ability is crucial, as it opens doors to invaluable opportunities and helps you move your career in the right direction.

Fortunately, learning to write this document is not that difficult once you understand the basics . The format and layout remain the same, regardless of the career or role that you’re applying for. One application letter sample works for any position; you just need to adapt it to suit your needs.

That’s why we’ve provided step-by-step instructions and a complete example of an application letter, arming you with all the knowledge you need. Best of luck getting the job of your dreams!

Application Letter FAQ

#1. when do you need a job application letter.

You need a job application letter when you’re applying for a role , and you want to stand out among the competition. This document serves as a testament to your skills and experience, and its goal is to portray you as a qualified candidate who’s perfect for the job.

#2. Is a letter of application the same as a cover letter?

A letter of application is not the same as a cover letter , but they share many similarities. The two documents have the same formatting, and both convey valuable information about your competence. However, a cover letter supplements your resume, while an application letter is a standalone and more comprehensive document.

#3. How do I write an application letter that stands out?

To write an application letter that stands out, focus on the skills and accomplishments that are relevant to the job that you’re applying for . Use an attention-grabbing introductory paragraph and include a call to action toward the end. Finally, leverage numbers to add measurable value to your achievements.

Create your cover letter once, use it everywhere

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How to Write a Job Application Letter (With Examples)

What Is a Job Application Letter?

Tips for writing a job application letter, how to get started.

• Writing Guidelines
• What to Include in Each Section

Simple Formatting Using a Template

Tips for writing an effective letter, sample job application letter, sending an email application, review more letter examples.

Do you need to write a letter to apply for a job? Most of the time, the answer is yes. Even when employers don’t require a job application letter , writing one will help you highlight your skills and achievements and get the hiring manager’s attention. The only time not to send one is when the job listing says not to do so. It can help, and it definitely won't hurt to include an application letter with your resume.

A job application letter, also known as a cover letter , should be sent or uploaded with your resume when applying for jobs. While your resume offers a history of your work experience and an outline of your skills and accomplishments, the job application letter you send to an employer explains why you are qualified for the position and should be selected for an interview.

Writing this letter can seem like a challenging task. However, if you take it one step at a time, you'll soon be an expert at writing application letters to send with your resume.

Melissa Ling / The Balance

Before you begin writing your job application letter, do some groundwork. Consider what information you want to include, and keep in mind that space is limited.

Remember, this letter is making a case for your candidacy for the position. But you should do more than just regurgitate your resume. Instead, highlight your most relevant skills, experiences, and abilities.

Analyze the Job Posting

To include the most convincing, relevant details in your letter, you'll need to know what the employer wants.

The biggest clues are within the job advertisement, so spend some time decoding the job listing . Next, match your qualifications with the employer's wants and needs.

Include Your Most Relevant Qualifications

Make a list of your relevant experience and skills. For instance, if the job ad calls for a strong leader, think of examples of when you've successfully led a team. Once you've jotted down some notes and have a sense of what you want to highlight in your letter, you're ready to start writing.

Writing Guidelines for Job Application Letters

Writing a job application letter is very different from a quick email to a friend or a thank-you note to a relative. Hiring managers and potential interviewers have certain expectations when it comes to the letter's presentation and appearance, from length (no more than a page) and font size to style and letter spacing . Keep these general guidelines in mind, but always stick to any explicit instructions in the job listing or application portal.

Length: A letter of application should be no more than one page long. Three to four paragraphs are typical.

Format and Page Margins: A letter of application should be single-spaced with a space between each paragraph. Use 1-inch margins and align your text to the left, which is the standard alignment for most documents.

Font: Use a traditional font such as Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri. The font size should be between 10 and 12 points.

What to Include in Each Section of the Letter

There are also set rules for the sections included in the letter, from salutation to sign-off, and how the letter is organized. Here's a quick overview of the main sections included in a job application letter:

Heading: A job application letter should begin with both your and the employer's contact information (name, address, phone number, email), followed by the date. If this is an email rather than an actual letter, include your contact information at the end of the letter, after your signature.

•   Header Examples

Salutation: This is your polite greeting. The most common salutation is "Dear Mr./Ms." followed by the person's last name. Find out more about appropriate cover letter salutations , including what to do if you don't know the person's name or are unsure of a contact's gender.

Body of the letter: Think of this section as having three distinct parts.

In the first paragraph , you'll want to mention the job you are applying for and where you saw the job listing.

The next paragraph(s) are the most important part of your letter. Remember how you gathered information about what the employer was seeking, and how you could meet their needs? This is where you'll share those relevant details on your experience and accomplishments.

The third and last part of the body of the letter will be your thank you to the employer; you can also offer follow-up information.

Complimentary Close: Sign off your email or letter with a polite close, such as "Best," or "Sincerely," followed by your name.

• Closing Examples

Signature: When you're sending or uploading a printed letter, end with your handwritten signature, followed by your typed name. If this is an email, simply include your typed name, followed by your contact information.

• Signature Examples

Overwhelmed by all these formatting and organization requirements? One way to make the process of writing a job application easier is to use a template to create your own personalized letters. Having a template can help save you time if you are sending a lot of application letters.

Be sure that each letter you send is personalized to the company and position; do not send the same letter to different companies.

• Always write one. Unless a job posting explicitly says not to send a letter of application or cover letter, you should always send one. Even if the company does not request a letter of application, it never hurts to include one. If they do ask you to send a letter, make sure to follow the directions exactly (for example, they might ask you to send the letter as an email attachment or type it directly into their online application system).
• Use business letter format. Use a formal business letter format when writing your letter. Include your contact information at the top, the date, and the employer’s contact information. Be sure to provide a salutation at the beginning and your signature at the end.
• Sell yourself. Throughout the letter, focus on how you would benefit the company. Provide specific examples of times when you demonstrated skills or abilities that would be useful for the job, especially those listed in the job posting or description. If possible, include examples of times when you added value to a company.

Numerical values offer concrete evidence of your skills and accomplishments.

• Use keywords. Reread the job listing, taking note of any keywords (such as skills or abilities that are emphasized in the listing). Try to include some of those words in your cover letter. This will help the employer see that you are a strong fit for the job.
• Keep it brief. Keep your letter under a page long, with no more than about four paragraphs. An employer is more likely to read a concise letter.
• Proofread and edit. Employers are likely to overlook an application with a lot of errors. Read through your cover letter, and if possible, ask a friend or career counselor to review the letter. Proofread for any grammar or spelling errors.

This is a job application letter sample.  Download the letter template (compatible with Google Docs or Word Online) or read the example below.

Sample Job Application Letter (Text Version)

Elizabeth Johnson 12 Jones Street Portland, Maine 04101 555-555-5555 elizabethjohnson@emailaddress.com

August 11, 2024

Mark Smith Human Resources Manager Veggies to Go 238 Main Street Portland, Maine 04101

Dear Mr. Smith,

I was so excited when my former coworker, Jay Lopez, told me about your opening for an administrative assistant in your Portland offices. A long-time Veggies to Go customer and an experienced admin, I would love to help the company achieve its mission of making healthy produce as available as takeout.

I’ve worked for small companies for my entire career, and I relish the opportunity to wear many hats and work with the team to succeed. In my latest role as an administrative assistant at Beauty Corp, I saved my employer thousands of dollars in temp workers by implementing a self-scheduling system for the customer service reps that cut down on canceled shifts. I also learned web design and timesheet coding, and I perfected my Excel skills. 

I’ve attached my resume for your consideration and hope to speak with you soon about your needs for the role.

Best Regards,

Elizabeth Johnson (signature hard copy letter)

Elizabeth Johnson

When you are sending your letter via email include the reason you are writing in the subject line of your message:

Subject Line Example

Subject: Elizabeth Johnson – Administrative Assistant Position

List your contact information in your signature, rather than in the body of the letter:

Email Signature Example

Elizabeth Johnson 555-555-5555 email@emailaddress.com

Review more examples of professionally written cover letters for a variety of circumstances, occupations, and job types.

CareerOneStop. " How Do I Write a Cover Letter? "

University of Maryland Global Campus. " Cover Letters ."

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The Informal Cover Letter and Its Benefits

Table of Contents

Cover letters are indispensable for many professional job applications and can help you sell yourself to your future employer. Writing cover letters can be tedious, reading them even more so, but it does not have to be. An informal cover letter , also known as short cover letters, help break this tedium for job applicants and recruiters.

Keep reading to learn more about informal cover letters , their benefits, and the way to write one the next time you apply!

Types of Cover Letters

There any many types of cover letters for different scenarios. The most well-known is the  application cover letter . These types of cover letters are written for specific jobs and should include specific skills and qualifications regarding them.

The second type is the  prospecting cover letter.  Generally speaking, a prospecting cover letter is best suited to inquiries about open positions at a company you are interested.

Third is the  networking cover letter.  The networking cover letter is used to ask for career advice and career opportunities.

And finally, we come to the main topic of this article, the  informal cover letter .

What is the Informal (Short) Cover Letter?

The informal cover letter is a short cover letter with the purpose of quick introduction . You include information about yourself, your skills, why you are interested in the job, and your personal connection with the company. Short cover letters are for job inquiries that don’t require a formal cover letter.

This cover letter does not have a clear-cut format. Usually, it consists of a greeting, a simple body explaining your experience and your interest in the company.

As a rule of thumb, you should also attach your CV or resume to the cover letter when you are applying.

Benefits of the Informal Cover Letter

Many people think that a good cover letter should be lenghty. In fact, a short cover letter may be as beneficial to your application as a long one. There are many reasons hiring managers prefer a more brief cover letter:

• In most cases, hiring managers can read a short cover letter in less time. This makes it more likely that yours is read over a long cover letter from another applicant.
• Cover letters with a brief outline stand out more than longer ones.
• A short cover letter that grabs a reader’s attention quickly can show your ability to convey your qualifications concisely.
• It allows its author the freedom to discuss certain personal and professional experiences.

When Not to Write a Short Cover Letter?

Although short cover letters have many advantages over the traditional ones, there are some cases where you should not use them.

If you have too many relevant skills and experiences about the work, you should not trim them down. You should be writing all of them in great detail, with as much information as possible.

If the hiring manager or the employer put down word count limits in the job posting, you should obviously respect them.

Informal Cover Letter Examples

The most important thing to remember when writing a cover letter is that you are conveying relevant information in a concise manner.

Here is an example of an informal cover letter:

Dear Mr. Sacrimoni,

My name is Paulie, and I would be thrilled to join your team as an accounting manager. I admire Satriale Markets’ reputation of customers satisfaction.

My resume outlines my skills and 5 years of experience in accounting. I am passionate about speaking to new people and helping others reach their goals.

I believe my background will benefit a team that prioritizes collaboration, and Satriale Markets is the perfect place to apply for this role.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you to discuss the accounting manager position further.

Best,Paulie Gualtieri111 Oak Tree LaneSunnyvale, [email protected] | 555-123-12345

Employers might enjoy this example because it addresses the hiring manager personally. It also mentions the company in the first sentence, and it only takes half a page!

How Long Should it Be?

As a rule of thumb, write just half or two-thirds of a page. This way the hiring manager will be able to tell you right away it will be an effective and quick cover letter.

As most cover letters take up a single page, spending half or two thirds of the page shows the length difference.

Pam is an expert grammarian with years of experience teaching English, writing and ESL Grammar courses at the university level. She is enamored with all things language and fascinated with how we use words to shape our world.

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How to Write a Letter: A Guide to Informal and Formal English

By: Author Sophia

Posted on Last updated: October 24, 2023

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The writing style is the manner of expressing thought in language characteristic of an individual, period, school, or nation… Learn how to write a letter in formal and informal ways.

How to Write A Letter in English

A letter is a written message sent from one person to another through a medium such as email, snail mail, or facsimile. Letter writing is an important communication skill in both personal and professional settings.

There are different types of letters, including informal letters to friends and family and formal letters used in business and academic settings. Understanding the differences between informal and formal letters and the appropriate tone, language, and format to use is essential for effective letter writing.

Informal Letter

• Write your full name and address even if it is an informal letter.
• Divide your letter into small paragraphs.
• Keep your writing simple.
• Make a good choice of words especially if you are writing an apology letter or a letter to express your condolences in case of a death.
• Most people close the letter with phrases like ‘Yours affectionately/With love/All the best/Take care’ etc.

Formal Letter

Let us understand a few ground rules while writing formal letters:

• You need to write your full name, address, and date before you begin the letter
• Address the person you are writing the letter to with the correct name and designation.
• It is always advisable to start the letter with ‘Respected Sir/Madam’ or ‘Dear Sir/Madam’ and then mention the name and the address.
• Before beginning to write the letter you must state the purpose of the letter in one line titled ‘Subject’.
• Your letter should be very crisp giving out only the information which is required.

Informal Letter Writing

Informal letters, also known as personal letters, are written to friends, family, or acquaintances. The tone of informal letters is personal and friendly, and the language used is less formal than in formal letters.

Characteristics of Informal Letters

• Personal, friendly tone
• Use of first name or nickname
• Contractions and informal vocabulary
• Less formal grammar and sentence structure
• May include personal anecdotes and emotional language

Tips for Writing Informal Letters

• Start with a friendly greeting, such as “Dear [Name],”
• Use a personal and conversational tone
• Avoid formal language and technical terms
• Use contractions, such as “can’t” instead of “cannot”
• Share personal news and feelings
• End with a friendly closing, such as “Take care,” or “Love,” followed by your signature and name.

In informal letters, it’s important to be yourself and write in a way that reflects your relationship with the recipient.

Formal Letter Writing

Formal letters are used in professional or academic settings, and they require a more formal tone and language. Formal letters typically follow a specific format and may include specific information such as addresses, dates, and reference numbers.

Characteristics of Formal Letters

• Professional, respectful tone
• Use of formal vocabulary and grammar
• Use of titles (e.g., Mr., Mrs., Dr., etc.) and surname
• Specific format, including heading, date, reference number, and clear structure
• Avoidance of contractions and colloquial language

Tips for Writing Formal Letters

• Start with a formal greeting, such as “Dear Sir/Madam,” or “To Whom it May Concern,”
• Use a professional tone and avoid emotional language
• Follow a specific format, including a heading with your address, the date, and the recipient’s address
• Use formal language, proper grammar, and proper punctuation
• Include a reference number, if applicable
• End with a formal closing, such as “Yours sincerely,” or “Sincerely,” followed by your signature and typed name.

In formal letters, it’s important to be clear, concise, and professional. Make sure to use the appropriate tone and language, and follow the format and structure to ensure your message is taken seriously.

Differences between Informal and Formal Letters

Main differences: tone, language, and structure.

The main differences between informal and formal letters lie in their tone, language, and structure.

• Tone : Informal letters have a personal and friendly tone, while formal letters have a professional and respectful tone.
• Language : Informal letters may use contractions, personal anecdotes, and colloquial language, while formal letters use formal vocabulary, proper grammar, and avoid colloquial language.
• Structure : Informal letters may have a less structured format, while formal letters typically follow a specific format, including a heading with addresses, date, and reference number, and a clear structure.

It’s important to choose the appropriate tone and format for your letter based on the purpose of your message and the recipient’s relationship with you.

The layout of informal and formal letters

The layout of informal and formal letters can also vary. Here are some of the key differences in layout between the two types of letters:

Informal Letters:

• Greeting: Start with a personal greeting, such as “Dear [Name],”
• Body: May have a less structured format, with paragraphs or bullet points
• Signature: End with a friendly closing, such as “Take care,” or “Love,” followed by your signature and name.

Formal Letters:

• Heading: Includes your address, the date, and the recipient’s address
• Greeting: Start with a formal greeting, such as “Dear Sir/Madam,” or “To Whom it May Concern,”
• Body: Follows a clear structure, including an introduction, main body, and conclusion
• Signature: End with a formal closing, such as “Yours sincerely,” or “Sincerely,” followed by your signature and typed name.

It’s important to follow the appropriate format for your letter, as it helps to ensure that your message is clear, concise, and professional.

How to Start and End a Letter

Starting and ending a letter appropriately is important, as it sets the tone for the rest of the letter and leaves a lasting impression on the recipient.

Starting a Letter

• Informal letter: Start with a personal greeting, such as “Dear [Name],”
• Formal letter: Start with a formal greeting, such as “Dear Sir/Madam,” or “To Whom it May Concern,”

Ending a Letter

• Informal letter: End with a friendly closing, such as “Take care,” or “Love,” followed by your signature and name.
• Formal letter: End with a formal closing, such as “Yours sincerely,” or “Sincerely,” followed by your signature and typed name.

In both informal and formal letters, make sure to include your signature, as it gives your letter a personal touch and provides proof of your authorship.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Letter

When writing a letter, it’s important to avoid common mistakes that can detract from the professionalism and clarity of your message. Here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid:

• Incorrect format : Make sure to follow the appropriate format for your letter, whether it’s informal or formal.
• Spelling and grammar errors : Check your letter for spelling and grammar errors, as these can make you appear unprofessional.
• Unclear message : Make sure your message is clear and concise. Avoid using overly complex language or lengthy explanations.
• Unprofessional tone : Avoid using emotional language or making personal attacks. In formal letters, make sure to use a professional tone.
• Improperly addressing the recipient : Make sure to use the correct title and surname for the recipient, and avoid using overly familiar language unless it’s appropriate for the relationship.
• Omitting important information : Make sure to include all relevant information, such as addresses, dates, and reference numbers, in your letter.
• Not proofreading : Always proofread your letter before sending it to catch any mistakes or typos.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your letter is professional, clear, and effective in communicating your message.

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Friday 30th of June 2023

it helped me today cause my teacher brought it in the exam

Degefu Zelele

Monday 29th of May 2023

Thank you very much! For sharing us this helpful lesson to improve our skill of writing.

Sunday 16th of October 2022

Great mapping and scaffolding lesson!

Mahendra raj giri

Thursday 6th of October 2022

arooba arooj

Wednesday 27th of April 2022

very helpful to me.

• All Lessons
• business english
• comprehension
• culture & tips
• expressions
• pronunciation

Writing Letters: formal & informal English

Test your understanding of this English lesson

378 comments.

Great lesson!!!

I Am originally from EGYPT ,and I Love Israel I hope i will be there for tourist

Thank you teacher for giving us a lesson on how to distinguised betwen informal and formal writing. I will watch the video again so, I have a grasp to undertand it better.

You are more than welcome to visit Israel. There are many beautiful places to visit.

i’m with you ;)

Awesome lesson, thanks Emma Formal: great lesson, thank you Emma

Very good tips to identify the differences between formal e informal in writting letters.

thanks a lot;)

I would like to announce that I considered this lesson very useful….)

thank u emma… really it is very helpful lesson for me :D

I have got 10/10. Thank you very much.

thanks so much Emma

Thank you very much. It is very helpful lesson for me.

Thank you, Emma! Such a helpful video. Could you please make a video to finish explaining the steps of answering writing task 1 of IELTS the academic module? I hope you make it soon. Thank you in advance.

I mean finish explaining what you started in your old video “IELTS – How to get a high score on Task 1 of the IELTS.”

Agreed. Formal writing always seems too long if compare with informal writing.. :)

Formal writing is a way of communicating in business and academia while an informal writing is a way you can use in a regular conversation in writing such as e-mail, letter to your friends, family, etc.

thank you, love you

10 out of 10. Very interesting lesson. Thank you Emma

What’s wrong with “very”? Is it so informal?

I’m also surprised… I really thought we could use “very” in both ways, formal and informal!

Very good! Thanks :)

thank Emma.

I got a 100. yeah! Thank you teacher, I guess I undartood it.

understood*

Yeah, magnífico! :) Greetings to Mexico!

Great lesson!

I want to learn English yes …

Thank you Emma

Very good lesson. Thank you so much Emma.

I got 10 correct out of 10 after a long time. BTW on this website, which way should I write the comment informally or formally? Thank you Emma :)

Thank you for such a useful resource. It’s great

Emma thamk very much indeed.Allow me to ask can you Question can I say this sentence. (You may approve it earliest convenience)

Emma, as usual many great tips. Thank You.

Hi Emma! thank you for your lessons! I’m trying to understand!

Thanks 100 %

I learned many

Hi! Maam you said! For more of these examples there will be list in resources section of engvid vebsite. I talk more about latter. where the list will be maam

Hi, There is a link in the description of this lesson. To access it, just go to the description above the video and click on the “resource page” (red letters).

Hi Maam, you said! For more of these examples there will be list in resources section of engvid website. I talk more about latter. Where the list will be maam?

Thank you so much , it was useful :)

Hi can you send this video to me?????

Thanks a lot :-)

inconvenience EMMA PLEASE EXPLAIN BETTWIN inconvenience DISTRIP

The first time i clearly understand about “formal” and “informal” writing. Thank you!!!

Thank you a lot teacher I enjoyed the lesson very much.

Now, I really know when to use the word in informal and formal. Thanks for making this video, hope to see more explanation about this topic, it is very helpful

FANTASTIC LESSON. I NEVER MISS EVEN A SINGLE LESSON OF YOUR IN FACT I WAIT FOR THEM. I CANNOT TELL THAT HOW MUCH IMPROVEMENT I GOT FROM YOUR LESSONS.I MEAN, I REALLY IMPROVED A LOT.

BUT YOU NEVER GIVE ANY COMMENTS,NEITHER YOU ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS.

I SOME TIMES ASKED QUESTION BUT YOU NEVER REPLAY.

WELL, WISH YOU A VERY-VERY GOOD DAY!

I HAVE A QUERY PLEASE DO REPLAY IF YOU READ THIS.

MY QUESTION IS:

1- WHERE DO WE USE ‘WELL’ AND WHY DO WE USE IT?

THANKING YOU!

great lesson!

Thank you,Emma

I had 100. I liked very much this lesson. In English I am very fond of formal language. I hate contractions, abrevation, idioms and of course slangs… I have great problems with phrasal verbs ! Is it a handicap if I always use formal English when I write or speak ? I am frightened that people think I am snob !

Now, I know more about formal and informal speaking and writing Thank you Emma for your excellent lesson

many tks ENGVID (informal)

Excellent, Emma! But how do you (English native speakers) know witch word has a Latin origin?

Emma,you look better with longer hair,just keep that way permanently.

7/10 thanks Emma.

Thank you very much it is a big help for me.

Nice lesson! I need your help. Actually, I’m going to sit the IELTS test (General) soon. As you know, to write a letter and an essay in a formal manners, we require much more appropriate words to cover a particular topic. It is hard to understand for me that how one can just fill his vocabulary with such words within short period of time, as many people suggest that two or three months’ time or even a little over it, is enough to be able to write anything formally. Furthermore, where can I find the list, full of words, that shows the best replacement for informal words we could possibly require? Your help will be appreciated. Thanks.

i got a 100. thank you so much emma.

I got 10/10 ! Its my first visit to this site :)

I remember that my teacher advised us to not use the word ” televesion ” in writing, because it is old and people start to not use it lately.

great lesson

thank you very much

I got 10. Thank you teacher. Great.

You got 10! You have to say sorry to Emma!Ha!

Hi there. This is very importat lesson for ESL speakers. In our mother tongues we just feel, which word or phrase sounds formal, which not. Thanks, Emma.

Thank for the nice quiz.

thank you very much, Emma. your explaination is comprehensible

Thank you so much. I enjoy it :)

Thank you Emma, very useful information for all the English learners, you’re so smart

Thank so much for your help and support

Thank you emma . I like you lison very match

Thank’s a lot Emma, I would like to ask where we can find the list for phrasal verbs on the website ?

I love this Video very much. Teacher Emma :)

I got 10 correct out of 10. Many thanks.

If I were a canadian, I would invite Emma for a cup of coffee :)

I am 31 year old I only story elementary in mexico, but I will get my GED as sun is pocible, thanks alot to all the teachers, for your help God bless all of you.

I got 90 :)

Thanks a lot, although it is(informal, but it is away of thankness

Hi! Great lesson, thanks. One question. This quiz sentence: Furthermore, we have seen the number of units sold increase dramatically. It says “number of …” not numbers, so I do not understand why not increases. Any help appreciated.

This is one of the greatest and most informative lessons I’ve watched in EngVid.com. It’ll be “strongly” useful for me :)

Thank u Emma and EngVid.

Hello Orbert,

Yes, The lesson is really great, About your question: The ” Number of units” is Plural, so we can not use “increases”. Hope it helps.

Based on my test result, I think I can fairly differentiate between informal and formal sentences ! But for sure, I have a lot to do to achieve provisional writing, Particularly so, in grammar and spelling!

HI …! It’s my first day in class, and it seems that I will improve my English here Very Soon . Thank You So Much Teacher :-)

i Got a 100%. Thanks !!!

dear Teacher,your explanation is very clear and nice so asto make me understandable the formal and informal letter-writing. sadook

Thank You. That was great lesson

thank you so much

Thank you..very good

Thanks emma that was great lesson

Don’t use exclamation and imperative.

100 YEAH :)

Great lesson, Thanks Emma, you are the beste.

Sorry, I would say “the best”.

i love emma…awfully thank

It’s a nice lesson to know the difference between formal and informal writing in an easiest way. Thank you teacher Emma. Keep up the good work!

thanks emma

hello. thank you for your teaches

Dear teacher, I’m taking up Ielts lessons. I’ve read two sentences: ” The graph depicts comparison related to the number of cars sold of five makers over the first three quarters in 2013.” and ” The graph depicts the sales figure relating to the number of cars consumed of five makers in the first three quarters in 2013″; and I don’t know why they use “related to” and “relating to” in those sentences. In addition, can I reorder the position of ” in the first three quarters in 2013″ an ” of five makers”. Thank you very much for your help! :)

Dear Emma, I just score 10 out of 10. The way you are teaching its feeling very convenient to me…

Thank you very much for supporting us with such great effort.

Ziaul karim

can you explain how to write argumantative essay?

Great…..100%

Very useful test i got 100%

Hi Emma, thanks for all the lessons. I learned a lot. you are the best teacher

Hi teacher, I am from Costa Rica, and I want to say thanks you, for all these excelent lessons

in your comment u have used Iam from costa rica, is it possible to use I from costa rica?

I totally like the Canadian accent,it’s better than the Aussie one.

You’d better hope no Australians are around :P

great lesson and great teacher thank you emma

Thank you!Very useful

thank you :)

Thanks, Emma. It is really useful

good lesson

Hello Emma thanks a lot! What about ielts speaking, may I talk informal or not? Best regards :-)

thanks ms emma

Hi Emma! Thank you for this lesson

astoniched lesson, congratulation

thank you very much!!

Thanks i got it. The defference of informal. And formal.. Ye heyy..

Emma, I have two questions: 1) I am preparing to General test. Do you think I should really worry about Formal Letters or Graphic and Maps? I have read that in General test the Writing often ask an informal or semi-formal letter. 2) According to “www.ieltshelpnow.com/general_training_writing_test_1.html” it’s recommended to start an informal letter with agreements as “Hi there! It’s been so long since I’ve heard from you…”. Isn’t too informal in your opinion? It sounds me such poor vocabulary but I am afraid that the examiner expected read some informal beginning.

thank you for lesson , interessting. could you tell me please what is the diferent between staff and employee – work and job – trip , travel and journey? and some other exemples . thank you .

y do people never remember Portuguese (it s by far more spoken than Italian) lol, anyway thx for ur lessons

very very very fantastic lesson thank you very mach my dear teacher EMMA.

Thanks a lot Emma. I didn’t know if words like RSVP, ATTN, ASAP were totally used in informal linguage as well as the ‘a lot of”, and I understood it,, so thank you again and Happy New year

Simple and short lesson, nice.

Nice lesson! Thank you EngVid team!

Wow, very good lesson! Thanks

THANK YOU GOOD EXPLANATION

Great lesson Emma. Simple tips but very powerful. It seems you are intelligent in English language. I was expecting some example letter writing at the end of the session. But it is not there. Anyhow nice information about formal and informal letters.

I have got 10/10. Thanks a lot Emma.

Emma Thank you for a great lesson. This is wonderful.

nice lesson

You are a good teacher , i liked your method of teaching it was so clear and you did explain everything well. Thank you so much!

Thank you. Good lesson

Hi Emma! Thank u for r lesson! Really useful and helpful as you brought up. Nevertheless I’m gonna have to disagree with on one point. U said that the I. Language is a language in which one people have the possibility to relax, but i don’t think so. I think the formal language in English is easier than the informal one, because to dominate and using spontaneously and naturally the i.l. it’s essential to learn about the phrasal verbs and there’re very many phrasal verbs and some ones are used to refer to a same action and i dunno which one have i to use among so many options. So I pick only one phrasal to use but i run across texts in english containing pv that i never before have seen to talk about, and when i look up 1 the meaning is the same one also applied to another action which might be also represented by another phrasal verb. Ex.: hold up and put off: they’ve got practically the same meaning: to delay. To use the formal language, it’s just necessary memorizing determined expressions and words and and so every1 can use it on. So, i think that the f. language relaxes mr than the informal 1, cause in the f. lang. there’re not phrasal verbs. But i’m gonna try to use increasingly the i. lang by studying the slangs and phrasal verbs which are really MANY..

In conclusion, Go on posting more lessons about vocabulary, i enjoy ’em… bye bye God bless ya!

It’s a very useful lesson.Thanks a lot.

Thank you Emma.

Very nice lesson. Thank you so much

very nice emma , please we need more lesson about how write form litter or mail , an give sample

Thank You, teacher Emma. :)

Hi Teacher, Can I used formal and informal English as a combine in letter?

I love you Emma! :*

Like other students of yours, I have difficulty in understanding “Phrasal verbs”. I will look for your video regarding the topic. Thanks for the good lesson!

Thanks, you are very clear, I understand your class.

thanks Emma

thank you soo much.

thanks a lot!

I got 10/10 !! Thanks Emma, you make it so much easier! :)

Hi Emma, Just wanted to let you know that this lesson was very comprehensive and really useful to me. Well, I was confusing the formal and the informal English in my speech all the time. Thanks to you, I made it clear. To sum up you are an effective teacher. Hope to have a new lesson from you soon. Dina

Excellent lesson! Thank you for the resource too. It will help me a lot!

Thank You !!!

You are good at teaching that’s why I understand very well Thanks Emma

I got the full mark thank you Emma , You’r a good teacher !

Thank you very much indeed

Wonderful lesson, I learn new things today :).. thanks Emma.

gread lesson i like it

thanks i got 90

Hi Emma, thanks a lot for your useful lesson. You’re a great teacher take care

Thank you very much. It’s been very useful for me and simple. Very easy to understand.

Thanks Emma..I got 100%

its a wonderful lesson. I got a lot

waw i get full mark ‘ i love EMMA

Thank you very much, Emma Great lesson I got 100%

good lesson and Plain Explanation, Thanks.

Hello Miss Emma I would like to thank you about the lesson the way you explain the lessons is amazing and easy to catch keep it up the good work

thanks Emma I understand perfectly this lesson I got 10/10 per cent THANKS AGAIN FOR TEACHING ME ENGLISH

Intriguing lecture, salute, Dear Emma .

it’s easy quiz)

thank you very much emma, i am very happy for the way are teaching.

Thanks emma, it is a helpful video for me for taking a celpip exam.

Thanks Emma, That is so interesting

10 out of 10))))) thnx

Hello! everyone I need help how to write a letter i am filipino. please pm me.

Thank you, Emma, all of us can learn a lot from you! So I am very grateful to you!

good ! however , i have one mistake :((

Hi Miss Emma. its call excellent teaching. Thanks a lot.

It was a perfect session to me thank you so much.

Thank you emmah.. You are good teacher.. I got 100%.

Congratulations and many thanks for this great class!

Many thanks to you It’s really great lesson.

I liked the class!! thank u teacher!! :)

Great. Thanks teacher

Thank you so much, Mrs. Emma. I got 10/10 in the quiz. wow so fantastic.

Strongly helpful to use in the office, Thank you very much

It was a great lesson I had not ever listened it. Thanks a lot Miss. Emma.

I got 100 out of 100 marks…

Thanks Emma

Many thanks, it helps alot.

What a great lesson.

Thanks Emma, Because your lessons made ​​me practice my English better and better…….

My fIrst lesson. Great!

very informative lecture..

That was a great lesson. Thank you very much indeed. Am I too formal?

Just a little! For an Internet comment “thanks a lot!” would sound better. But don’t sweat it :)

this is really yet another interesting quiz and lesson

Thnak you teacher Emma It was a strongly instructive lesson.

your lessons are strongly helpful thank you very much Emma

Thanks. It has been an interesting lesson.

Thank you Emma. I got 100.

Thank you. I got 100%.

10/10 :) Thank you

cheers emma very helpful

Thank you Professor Emma, this lesson is great

Teacher what is the important of informal or slang? I hope teacher you will make figure completely out of this.

Thank you for all your helps

Really help full thank u

Thanks for the video!

Wonderful lessons…thanks teacher. Anyone wants to practice on skype? To improve English together…

wonderful lesson thanks teacher alot

Thanks Teacher I got 100

thank you emma

Thank you very much.I enjoyed it.

Thanks for sharing your knowledge. Awesome lesson!

Thanks a lot I have learned new things from this test.

Emma .. you are great teacher !! <3 thank you so much

thnx emma ,it is good work. this video has emparted me sense of formal and informal .english

Thanks Emma. Great lesson on informal versus formal. In quiz it is pretty easy to answer the questions. But when I try to use them while writing the letter, I am using informal words in formal letter. :(

In my point of view, I feel I need more practice to avoid confusion among all these words.

THANK YOU FOR NICE LESSON!

Thanks you Emma, is useful in my workplace

This was one of the things I did have doubt. Strongly usefull. Thanks for the explanation.

I am interested by this session

u r great and i really love to watch ,study with u

Thank You Teacher I have done 100 points It is a strongly lesson.

Thank you very much……it’s very nice…..I got 10 correct out of 10.

Just wanted to clear a doubt, It’s not related to this lesson but I was wondering if you could tell me if the below mentioned statement is correct..

Richard was one of the thieves that stole the painting from the gallery, but due to the lack of evidence , he got away with it..

Is this sentence correct or do i have to change anything.

Thank you so much..

Useful lesson

When I speak formal English，I must be very nervous. But I learned that if I can not use formal English, people will see me impolite person. Today’s video was very useful. Thank you Emma!

hi,Emma a great lesson.

i got 100 from 100

It’s very simple, but very important in the business activity. Thanks Emma!

Excellent explanation!Formal or Informal.That’s the question.Thanks a lot Emma for this great class.

Thank you teacher Emma! I am grateful to see you everyday on Engvid.com video and learn more. God Bless to all Engvid teachers.

I got 10/10

It was very helpful. Thank You.

Thank you I really appreciate this website

Thank you i am strongly appreciate this website

You are my angel Amma, thank you so much.

Thank you, i learned many things

hey, I have I a bit of a dumb question maybe, but at 3:03 you use a word that sounds like “mature”, I don’t get the meaning of this word and I think that’s because I spell it wrong so got the wrong translation. Can you help me please?

well I´ll see this topic in this week class so is good to have some knowledge about it thank you.

thanks a lot very useful lesson

my favorite teacher is Emma.thans

got 10 correct out of 10

Hi Emma, Thank u givings us great lessons and explaining everything on a plain language <3 I would like to know , after passing quizzes successfully we would get a certificate? or is here any program level on which we could get certificate in the end of the course?

Mz.Emma I love your lessons.Your teaching excellent. It is helping me a lot.

It’s very helpful to me!! Thank you, Emma^^

this lesson has helped me a lot, thanks ma’am

Thank you a lot Emma! You are the best!

I have no prediction how you could have been sauch a wonderful teacher like that!Literally its perfect thank you Emma!

Excellent lesson, very useful

Thank you emma really perfect lesson

Dear madam. I would like to know if give private lessons.Futhermore will you put more videos about this topic.You may answer at your earliest convenience. Yours faithfuly.

Hi thank you Emma from my heart I am realy appriciate your hard work and I want to say you are so wandorful and so kind and I want you to forgive for my mistakes all the best to you

yeeeeeyyyy! 10/10 again .thank you Emma.

Great lesson and helpful to everyone.

Dear Emma i watched your video, difference between formal and informal writing so i have got much learned.

Thank you Emma!!

Indeed a Good lesson….why Emma does not answer any of the questions asked by English learners here on this website

Thank you Emma. very useful

Thank you ,Emma !

thank you Emma, you are so nice teacher i like your way of teaching.

Excellent Emma, l have enjoyed a lot.

I got all callect 10/10 thanks Emma.

thaks for those lessons i like your explanation i got just 8/10 but i will try to get more thank you emma

He was fabulous and a new lesson for me

got 90%….new lesson for me ….i like the way u teach ……informal writing hahah

thanks you emma

Greta lesson but also I need to practice my speach.

10/10 Thanks Emma.

How beautifully you explained this lesson! I love your teaching methodology. Live long Emma!

Finally, I have understood this lesson and got 100 out of 100 marks. Thanks Emma

Send me videos on how to write an informal letter and formal, essay, article.

No I know that I should use “TV” in informal emails and “television” in formal ones.

Thanks alot,It was strongly helpfull.

EMMA’s lectures very understandable. Emma has got fascinating style during the lecture.

Thank Teacher!

Great Lesson , Great Teacher, Thanks much

Thanks Emma ,I loved it.

Thank you very much for this useful lesson. Would you mind if i asked you a question? As you said, idiom should not be used in formal letters, but I think that it can help me get more marks in essays. Is it right? I look forward to your reply :)

It’s hard part to judge what words is formal, and what words is informal.However, thanks Eamma for your teach, and share a chart about formal and informal.

so do i have a the same feeling, maybe should enlarge my Vocabulary

thanks a lot Emma

It was really useful Emma, thanks!

you are a great teacher Emma!I admire you so much…

Thank you emma Thank you so much engvid

Greatt lesson!!! It fit me perfectly since i am revising for my IGCSE test. Keep it up!!

what a useful lesson it is！i got it ，thank~

Great! lesson thank you very much engvid

Thanks teacher for your teaching .I understand Formal and Informal now.

Thank you, teacher Enma.

Thanks a lot Emma, you are the best teacher that I have until Now.. because you Very beautiful and also, express the word of a way that help us to understand very well… I am loving your classes!! And you of course!!

Hello I want to ask a question. “Please send me at your earliest convenience.” Is that correct in formal or not?

thank you Mrs. Emma. it’s usefull

Thank you so much. I love to watch all your videos.

thanks it is very helpful lesson for me I got 10/10

Thanks, Emma. Great lesson. I got 100.

I cannot print out the English Resources for Formal & Informal English. Why?

Thank you emma

great Lesson

Great tips! Thanks Emma.

– Hosseiй

thank you so much for great lesson

Thank you Emma !

Thanks Emma…… it was quite informative. I never kept in mind while writing my day to day writings.

Thank you, teacher.

Hi Emma, i love your lesson, intersting and easy to understand

Thank you so much Emma . Your lesson was very nice .

Thank you for the lesson. Could you answer some questions, please? At the first, if I’m writting a formal letter, how can I apply to the person whom I write it? If I write to my friend, I can start with something like “Dear friend!”, but what if I write to my boss, teacher, etc.? At the second, I wonder if I can use informal language in General IELTS Speaking? I’m pretty sure I will get a higher score for “vocabulary” if I use idioms and phrasal verbs.

Thank you Emma.On the top of it all ,this lession is preety interesting.

thank emma ! i love you and video much love from me and my famely thank you a very much! thank!

Thanks Emmah your are my great teacher

Thanks Emma your are a great teacher

Very useful

Yayy I got my 100 % :) well explained

Very clear, thank you Emma

Thank you, Emma!!!

You got 10 correct out of 10.

Great ! Thanks for your lessons

Big thanks for u

Emma , you are just awsome thak you…ıt was very useful

Are contractions like “wanna”, “gonna”, “gotta” and similar acceptable in non-formal GT task 1 letters?

I want to give you an informal kiss! Thank you very much for the lesson

thank you very much for the lesson

Thank you Emma for lesson and for your methodology

Thanks, it was a very good hint to write proper letter. Also it’s my first comment and first lesson I saw in your web site.

Thank you very much.

Hello Emma Thank you for your innovative and helpful videos. could you please answer my question. Can the answers be written in all CAPITAL letters in IELTS Writing test?

Thanks Emma i got 100 .

I really like the way you teach, you are super

Amazing Emma, I got 100. Thank you!

Great explanation. Just found your yt channel guys. Will be using definitely to improve my english skills!

Great lesson ! Thank you so much Emma ! Unfortunately, I can’t print it…no link for… ??? :-(. Would you please help me to find a solution for printing this useful resource ? Thanks a lot

THanks lot Emma for such heplful videos .we are having CEFR now and your videos help me and us lot.keep it up ! I think these hot words helps you to get more energy and encouregement as well.

I would like to express my sincere thanks and appreciation for this valuable information which I have benefited greatly from

Thanks Emma!!

I understood the informal english now

I have luck to find this website ?

Thank you Ms. Emma.

The lesson was wonderful

Thanks, Amma. I got 10 correct out of 10. I am making progress.

10/10! This lesson is very useful for me to write an email with the business customer. Thanks, Emma!

I got 10/10 mam

Thank you Ms. Emma for your efforts! I got 10 out of 10.

If I understood correctly, all phrasal verbs are considered to be informal and avoid writing them on TOEFL or IELTs. right????

so what are block ,semi-block & modifiers

Excellent lesson. Thanks Emma!

I watched the video twice on April 16, 2021, and took the quiz after watching it once. I got 10 correct out of 10.

yes I got 10/10

How to revise these sentences by eliminating word/s that does not follow the rules of formal language.

1. Please tell your friends about the lecture, “the 24th revolution”, by prof. Nick Martel, dept. of sociology.

2. There were 88 student ambassadors from all over asia who attended the youth forum on “climate change”.

3. Sorry to keep you waiting.

4. At this point in time

5. Postpone your activities until later.

Thank you so much ma’am I got 9/10…

Emma, you rock!

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• Letter Writing
• Informal Letter Format

Informal Letter Format - How to Write, Parts, Sample Informal Letters

To write an informal letter in English, you need to know the way in which it is written. Informal letter writing is easier than you think. It is just like a long talk with a friend or relative.

In this article, the format of an informal letter is explored under the following headings.

What Is an Informal Letter?

What can you write about in an informal letter, how to write an informal letter.

• Informal Letter Format 1 – Letter to Your Cousin Inquiring about Her First Visit to Ethiopia
• Informal Letter Format 2 – Letter to Your Friend about Arranging a Get-Together
• Informal Letter Format 3 – Reply Regretting Inability To Join
• FAQ On Informal Letter Format

Informal letters are personal letters that are written to let your friends or family know about what is going on in your life and to convey your regards. An informal letter is usually written to a family member, a close acquaintance, or a friend. The language used in an informal letter is casual and personal.

You can literally write about anything you feel or think you want to convey. Informal letters can be written to inform your dear ones about your success in a competition, about a movie you watched recently, about the trip that you would be going on, and so on. It can also be to enquire about their well-being, to invite them to go along with you on a trip, to congratulate them on their new job, to convey your regards, etc. You can be as personal as you want when writing an informal letter.

Like any letter, there is a format to write an informal letter in English. Unlike a formal letter , an informal letter does not need to state something specific. It can be written in an easy, conversational style. They are in the nature of a friendly chat, so it can include a variety of topics. It can have all that you want to tell your dear one about. You can use colloquial expressions, unlike formal letters. There are a few easy guidelines that you can follow to be able to write impressive informal letters.

• Forms of Greeting/Salutation: In informal letters to friends and family, you can address them by their names prefixed by qualifying terms such as Dear, My dear, Dearest, etc. You can also address them by their pet names (Eg: Dearest Rosy, Dear Andy, My dear Sweety…) or by their relationship with you (Dear Uncle, Dearest Grandma, My dear Cousin…). If you are writing to an ordinary friend who is older than you are, or of superior rank, it is respectful to use prefixes such as Mr, Mrs, Ms, etc. For example, Dear Mr Reddy.
• Introduction and Body of the Letter: The words you use determine the nature of your letter. You can start your informal letter with an introduction to set the tone of the matter that is going to be discussed. You can begin by enquiring about the health and well-being of the recipient. For instance, I hope this letter of mine finds you in the pink of health. You can then explain the reason behind the letter and provide the details as elaborate as you wish to, unlike formal letters. The letter can be more like a friendly chat than an essay. You can write in a very casual and personal tone. If you are writing to an older person, do not use disrespectful terms or sentences.
• Conclusion: End the informal letter on a friendly note. Use words in such a way that the recipient feels like they have had a wonderful time chatting with you. See to that you make sure you let them know that you would be awaiting their response to your letter.
• Forms of Subscription/Signature: You can use the following in informal letters to relatives and near friends: Yours affectionately, Yours lovingly, Your loving friend, With love, etc., followed by your name (mostly your first name).If you are writing to a close acquaintance whom you have addressed as Dear Mr, Mrs, etc., you can use Yours sincerely, Kind regards, etc.

Informal Letter Format Samples

Let us now look at some examples of informal letter formats to help you understand better.

Informal Letter Format 1 – Letter to Your Cousin Enquiring about Her First Visit to Ethiopia

34, Park Avenue

Mumbai – 400023

24 th September, 2021

Dearest Maria,

I was so glad to hear from my mother that you are back home after the trip. Hope you had a safe and enjoyable trip. I have been waiting to hear all about the trip from you.

Since this was the first time you have been to a foreign land, I guess every little bit of the trip was as exciting as you expected it to be. I have heard from my friends residing there that the place is extremely beautiful and that the people there are very endearing. However, I was worried when I knew that there were a few bomb blasts during your stay there. Hope all of you there were safe. I hope everything else was fine except for this.

I had spoken to your mother earlier, and she told me that you would be coming home after two weeks. I saw your pictures on Instagram as well. I can’t wait to meet you and hear all your stories. Waiting eagerly for your reply.

Your loving cousin,

Informal Letter Format 2 – Letter to a Friend about Arranging a Get-together

Allahabad – 211005

Dear Surya,

Hope you are keeping well, and everyone at home is keeping safe and healthy. It has been a long time since all of us have met, so I was thinking we could all meet up. I have planned to have a get-together next month. I would love to discuss more about it.

All of us could meet on Friday evening and stay over the weekend at a resort in Munnar. The climate in Munnar is great and it will be a good stress reliever. We could also go around the tourist spots if everyone is interested. If you are ready, we could talk to the others also. I will visit you next weekend to discuss more on this.

Awaiting your reply and hoping to meet you soon.

Informal Letter Format 3 – Reply Regretting Inability to Join

144, Stark Lane

Mumbai – 400054

Dear Sreya,

It is extremely thoughtful of you to plan a get-together for all of us. I wish I could join you, but I am sorry to say that I have a project starting next month, and it would not be possible for me to be there. If there is any way of preponing the get-together to any time before the month-end, I can definitely make it to our gathering.

I hope we can reschedule the get-together and not miss the chance to meet up. Waiting to hear from you.

Explore more informal letter samples,

• Letter to Your Friend about Coronavirus
• Letter to Your Friend about Covid-19 Precautions
• Letter to Your Friend about Lockdown
• Letter to your Friend about Your Hobby
• Letter to Your Friend about Your School Trip
• Letter to Your Friend about Your School
• Letter to Your Friend about Your Summer Holidays
• Letter to Your Friend Describing Your Ancestral House
• Letter to Your Friend Describing Your Birthday Party
• Writing a Letter to Your Friend

FAQ on Informal Letter Format

How can you write an informal letter.

An informal letter should include:

• The Sender’s address
• Greeting/Salutation
• Introduction
• Body of the letter

How do you start an informal letter?

As far as an informal letter is concerned, you can start by greeting the person and conveying regards. You can then state the purpose of your letter.

What is the difference between a formal letter and an informal letter?

A formal letter is written in a professional manner where you directly state the intent of your letter and what you expect; whereas, an informal letter can be written to anyone whom you are close to about anything you want to share.

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