The notice format is the structure you must follow when writing a notice in IGCSE English or Singapore secondary exams. A correct notice format includes the word NOTICE, the date, a heading, the body with what, when, where, and who, and a signature with designation. This guide explains the notice format step by step so you can write full-mark notices.

Notice format structure

1. NOTICE – Write the word NOTICE in capital letters at the top (centred or left). 2. Date – Write the date below (e.g. 20 February 2026). 3. Heading – A short title for the notice (e.g. Annual Sports Day, Lost Bag). 4. Body – Short paragraphs or points with what is happening, when, where, and who should respond. 5. Signature and designation – Name and role (e.g. Secretary, Sports Club) at the bottom. Follow this notice format every time so examiners can see you know the structure.

What to include in the notice format body

In the body of the notice, answer the 5 Ws where relevant: What (event or request), When (date and time), Where (venue), Who (who is invited or who should act), and How (how to register or contact). Use formal language and stay within the word limit. For more notice format examples and full samples, see our Notice Writing Format and Examples guide.

Common notice format mistakes

Missing the word NOTICE or the date; writing too informally; going over the word limit; forgetting the signature and designation. Practise the notice format with past papers and time yourself. For help with directed writing and notice format, book a free trial with an IGCSE English tutor on Tutopiya.

Notice format and word limit

In exams, the question usually gives a word limit (e.g. 50–80 words). Stay within it. Your notice format should be complete (NOTICE, date, heading, body, signature and designation) but the body should be concise. Include only the information from the question; do not add long stories or extra detail. Practise the notice format with past papers and time yourself so you can produce a full notice within the limit. For full notice writing examples and notice writing format guidance, see our Notice Writing Format and Examples and Notice Writing Examples guides. For one-to-one help with notice writing and directed writing, book a free trial with an IGCSE English tutor on Tutopiya.

Next steps

Practise notice format with IGCSE or school past papers. Use our Notice Writing Format guide for examples. For one-to-one help, book a free trial on the Tutopiya learning platform.