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Transcript

WRITING A FORMAL LETTER

Formal letter - rules

Let's look at some specific rules you need to know to write a proper formal letter

What is a formal letter and when we write it?

A formal letter is one written in a formal and ceremonious language and follows a certain stipulated format. Such letters are written for official purposes to authorities, dignitaries, colleagues, seniors, etc and not to personal contacts, friends or family. A number of conventions must be adhered to while drafting formal letters.

Formal letter - rules

Formal letter - rules

Addresses and dates

Your address: The return address should be written in the top right-hand corner of the letter. The address of the person you are writing to: The inside address should be written on the left, starting below your address. Date:Different people put the date on different sides of the page. You can write this on the right or the left on the line after the address you are writing to. Write the month as a word.You don't need to write addresses in the Maturita exam, but write the date!

Formal letter - rules

Starting the letter

Dear Sir or Madam, If you do not know the name of the person you are writing to, use this. It is always advisable to try to find out a name. You can also use:Dear Sir/Madam

Dear Mr Jones, If you know the name, use the title (Mr, Mrs, Miss or Ms, Dr, etc.) and the surname only. If you are writing to a woman and do not know if she uses Mrs or Miss, you can use Ms, which is for married and single women.

Formal letter - rules

Content of a formal letter

Introduction: A short introduction that states the purpose of the letter to make an enquiry, complain, request something, etc.The body : (2 - 4 paragraphs) that contains the relevant information. Most letters in English are not very long, so keep the information to the essentials and concentrate on organizing it in a clear and logical manner rather than expanding too much. The conclusion: The final paragraph (suggested action to be taken, closing remarks, express understanding, promises, etc. Thank you for your help/time I look forward to hearing from you I look forward to meeting you

Formal letter - rules

ENDING A LETTER

Yours Faithfully If you do not know the name of the person, end the letter this way.Yours SincerelyIf you know the name of the person, end the letter this way.

Do not forget your signature!Do not use any contracrions in the letter.

Formal letter - instructions

Formal letter - instructions

Letter of complaint

You ordered a laptop and after recieving the package you realized that it is not what you expected.Write a letter of complaint (200 - 250 words) where:

  • you explain why you are writing
  • describe what the problem is
  • suggest an appropriate solution

Formal letter - instructions

Cover letter

You found this advertisement online and you want to respond:We are one of the leading job agencies in the UK. We match people to all types of permanent, temporary and part-time jobs. If you are interested, check out our website, and write to info@perfectjobs.co.uk Write a cover letter (200 - 250 words) where:

  • you explain why you are writing
  • introduce yourself
  • say what kind of job you would be interested in and why
  • describe your skills