Tips to Write an Informal Letter

Planning an Informal Letter

It might seem like a waste of valuable time, but planning is an essential part of the writing paper. Most people don’t plan and they normally get lost in the middle of their writing and waste lots of time trying to make their writing clear and organised. Remember that your letter must be well organised and easy to read and a plan will really help you with this and actually save you time.

Below is the structure I advise all of students to follow.

Dear [First name only of friend]

Paragraph 1- Say why you are writing to them (I’m just writing to let you know that….)

Paragraph 2- Bullet point 1 and supporting details 

Paragraph 3- Bullet point 2 and supporting details 

Paragraph 4- Bullet point 3 and supporting details 

Looking forward to hearing from you soon. 

All the best 

[Your first name only] 

You shouldn’t need to change this structure and you can use it again and again for any informal task. Try making a plan before you start writing and use it to plan your answers. All you have to do then is think of the supporting details for paragraphs 2, 3 and 4 and write your answer.

Informal Language

Informal language does not mean you can relax and write like you would in a text message to a friend. Remember that this is an English test and your grammar and spelling will have to be correct.

Avoid using abbreviations like ‘luv’ or ‘bcuz’. Also, don’t use acronyms like ‘LOL’ or ‘OMG’ and never use emoticons.

It is a good idea to use contractions like ‘I’ve’, ‘I’d’ and ‘I’m’. This is one of the ways that you can show the examiner that you know how to write an informal letter.

Below is a range of informal language that you can use in your informal letters. Which ones you use will depend on the context.

Stating Purpose

I’m just writing to let you know that….

I’m writing to tell you about….

Apologising

I’m very sorry about…..

I’d like to apologise for….

Asking for help

I’d be really grateful if you could…..

I was wondering if you would give me a hand with…..

I was wondering if you would do me a favour.

Expressing Satisfaction

I was over the moon to hear about….

I was thrilled to find out that/about……

Giving bad news

I’m afraid I’ve a bit of bad news for you.

Ending

All the best.

Keep in touch.

Informal Letter Writing Checklist

Here are some questions you should ask yourself when trying to write an informal letter.

·        Have I read and thought about the instructions carefully?

·        Am I sure that this is an informal letter?

·        Have I done a plan?

·        Have I covered both the reason for writing and the 3 bullet points?

·        Have I supported each bullet point with relevant details?

·        Have I used informal language?

·        Have I used paragraphing correctly?

·        Are my ideas easy to understand?

·        Have I avoided copying the word in the question and varied my vocabulary?

·        Have I checked my letter for grammar and spelling mistakes?