When writing a formal letter, remember to include:
- formal language throughout
- your address, the date and the recipient's address
- an appropriate greeting – Dear Sir/Madam / Dear Mr... / Mrs...
- an introduction explaining why you are writing the letter
- clear paragraphs discussing each aspect of your topic
- examples to back up what you are saying
- a clear conclusion summing up your main points
- an appropriate sign-off – Yours faithfully / Yours sincerely
Remember, if you start 'Dear Sir/Madam', you end 'Yours faithfully'. If you start 'Dear Mr...', you end 'Yours sincerely'.
When writing an informal letter, remember to include:
- informal language throughout – don't use too much slang, though, and write in complete sentences
- your address and the date
- an appropriate greeting – Hi/To
- an introduction explaining why you are writing the letter
- clear paragraphs discussing each aspect of your topic
- interesting examples and anecdotes to paint a picture for your reader
- a realistic conclusion, linked to the topic, but also 'Write back soon!' perhaps
- an appropriate sign-off – Love / From / Waiting to hear from you
Try not to use formal greetings and sign-offs in informal letters.