Study Notes
Formal letters are written forms of communication for business or official purposes, addressed to those in positions of authority. They are brief, precise, and written in formal standard English, avoiding informal language.
- Formal Letter — a written form of communication for business or official purposes. Example: Writing to a school principal or company manager.
- Sender’s Address — the address of the person sending the letter, placed at the top left corner. Example: 140, Cooper Square, Chelsea, London, England.
- Date — the full date when the letter is written. Example: 21st of October 2022.
- Salutation — a formal greeting used at the beginning of the letter. Example: Dear Sir or Madam.
- Body — the main content of the letter, divided into paragraphs detailing the situation. Example: Describing a complaint or request.
- Conclusion — a closing section requesting action or summarizing the letter's purpose. Example: I hope you will consider this and take prompt action.
- Complimentary Close — a polite way to end the letter. Example: Yours sincerely.
Exam Tips
Key Definitions to Remember
- Formal Letter: A written communication for official purposes.
- Salutation: The greeting at the start of a letter.
- Complimentary Close: The polite ending of a letter.
Common Confusions
- Using informal language in a formal letter.
- Forgetting to include the sender's address.
Typical Exam Questions
- Write a letter to the Mayor of your town, appealing for better lighting on the road near your house? Answer: Include sender's address, date, salutation, body detailing the issue, and a polite conclusion.
- Write a letter to the principal of your school informing him of the lack of computers in the computer lab? Answer: Start with the sender's address, date, and salutation, then explain the issue in the body and conclude politely.
- Write a formal letter to the manager of a restaurant appreciating the food you had? Answer: Use a formal tone, include specific details about the experience, and end with a complimentary close.
What Examiners Usually Test
- Understanding of formal letter structure.
- Ability to use formal language appropriately.
- Clarity and conciseness in communication.