Important Facts

When writing a letter, choose the appropriate format since there are some marked differences
between a formal letter, such as a letter of application, a letter of complaint or a letter to the editor
and an informal letter to a friend or to a relative.

Yet all letters should contain these elements:
 Star by explaining why you are writing
 Define the subject matter in a formal

letter: a job application, a letter of complaint, a letter
to the editor
 In an informal letter you might refer to a letter you have received, your personal situation
etc.

The body of your letter should be clearly structured:
 A letter of application should contain all the relevant information (qualifications, experience,
motivation, etc).
 Concisely state the facts in a letter of complaint.
 Present your ideas logically when commenting on an article or a TV programme.
 A logical flow of ideas also creates coherence in an informal letter.
 Close the letter with a concluding remark on the final paragraph