Writing Informal Letters

	Writing Informal Letters Informal letters may be used to share news, thank or compliment someone, or just to say "Hello". Although handwritten informal letters are considered the most personal, if you use a word processor or e-mail to convey your thoughts, the basics of letter-writing still apply: Consider why you're sending the letter Use correct spelling and proper grammar Follow a standard introduction - body - closing format Read what you've written before sending your letter Additionally, if you're handwriting your letter, consider if you want to use both sides of a page. If your pen makes an impression through your stationery, don't write on the back of a page if those impressions interfere with legibility of the front of the page. If your handwritten letter is more than two pages, consider numbering them since they may get shuffled. The introductory paragraph Some letter writers have a hard time getting started. A good way to break that block is to mention why you're writing. This helps both you and the reader understand your purpose. Your introductory paragraph, which may only consist of a sentence or two, should be brief, personal, and honest and may even include a little humor. The body of the letter Instead of jumping back and forth between thoughts, try to develop some logical pattern for the information you're trying to convey. When you have more than one idea to address, a good way to start might be, "First, I wanted to let you know…" By following a logical layout, your letter flows better and your reader will have a more enjoyable time walking through events with you. Depending on what you're trying to say, relating events in chronological order may also help. Keep the tone conversational and let your thoughts flow. The closing Follow the same closing guidelines even if you're sending your thoughts by e-mail. Depending on your letter's purpose, you may want to invite the reader to write back or stay in touch, or thank your reader for taking the time to share these moments. Since this is not a formal letter, use "Yours truly," Warm regards," "Best wishes," "Love," or whatever is appropriate to both the relationship you share with the reader and the purpose of your letter. The most informal and affectionate letters may close with "Miss you," or "Write soon," or "See you soon." Your relationship with your reader will determine if you sign just your first name, a nickname, or both your first and last name. Before you send the letter Once you've finished writing, read your letter to check for errors. Consider the following: Did you accomplish what you set out to say when you began writing? How will your reader feel about what you've written? Is that what you intended? Do your thoughts flow logically, or are they scattered throughout the letter? Just by following a few tips, even your informal and personal letters will say good things about you, long after you've written them!