Letter Writing

What are the differences between formal vs. informal letters?

A letter is a written message from one party to another containing information. Letters are one of the oldest modes of communication used by humankind. In the contemporary society, there are two types of letters: formal letters and informal letters.

Formal Letters

Formal letters are sent to organizations, government departments, chair holders, etc to make complaints, requests, inquiries, orders etc. In case of formal letters, the person to whom you are addressing the letter is not a friend or any other person known to you. Your tone is full of respect making use of formal words and sentences to create a nice impression on the recipient. Formal letter follow a set format where you write the name, designation, and address of the recipient on the top left while your own name and address at the top right. You sign off at the bottom left under yours truly or yours faithfully.

Informal Letters

Informal letters are written to friends and relatives. The purpose of writing a letter is not to make a complaint or inquiry, and the tone is also casual. The words used can be colloquial and slang, and you are not there to create an impression. Informal letters can be considered a freestyle swimming where you are free to write in the style and tone as you wish. There is no set format, and there is no need to be using formal style and tone

What’s Difference between Formal vs. Informal Letters?

The purpose of writing an informal letter is totally different from the purpose of a formal letter.
The content of the two styles is also different.
The style of greeting and addressing the letter is different.
There is a set format for formal letters while there is no set structure for an informal letter.
Slang and colloquial words can be used in an informal letter but not in a formal letter.

Types of letter

letter of complaint;
letter of asking for/giving information;
reguest;
asking for/giving advice;
invitation;
accepting/refusing an invitation;
expressing congratulation/thanks/regret/sumpathy;
giving news;
apology;
application for a job;
paying a bill.

Sections of a Business Letter

Each section of your letter should adhere to the appropriate format, starting with your contact information and that of your recipient’s; salutation; the body of the letter; closing; and finally, your signature.

Your Contact Information

Your Name
Your Job Title
Your Company
Your Address
City, State Zip Code
Your Phone Number
Your Email Address

The Date

The date you're penning the correspondence

Recipient’s Contact Information

Their Name
Their Title
Their Company
The Company’s Address
City, State Zip Code

The Salutation

Use "To Whom It May Concern," if you’re unsure specifically whom you’re addressing.
Use the formal salutation “Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. [Last Name],” if you do not know the recipient.
Use “Dear [First Name],” only if you have an informal relationship with the recipient.

The Body

Use single-spaced lines with an added space between each paragraph, after the salutation, and above the closing.
Left justify your letter (against the left margin).

Closing Salutation

Keep your closing paragraph to two sentences. Simply reiterate your reason for writing and thank the reader for considering your request. Some good options for your closing include:

Respectfully yours
Yours sincerely
Cordially
Respectfully

If your letter is less formal, consider using:

All the best
Best
Thank you
Regards

Your Signature

Write your signature just beneath your closing and leave four single spaces between your closing and your typed full name, title, phone number, email address, and any other contact information you want to include.

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