Letter writing is an essential communication skill that remains important even in the digital age. Whether you are writing to a school principal, company manager, friend, or family member, knowing how to write a letter correctly makes a strong impression. In this guide, you will learn how to write both formal and informal letters, along with the correct usage of “Yours faithfully” and “Yours sincerely.”

This article is ideal for students, job seekers, and anyone who wants to improve their writing skills.

What Is Letter Writing?

Letter writing is the act of communicating ideas, information, or emotions through a written message. Letters are generally divided into two main types:

  1. Formal Letters

  2. Informal Letters

Each type has a different tone, format, and purpose.

How To Write A Formal Letter

A formal letter is written for official or professional purposes. It is used when writing to someone you do not know personally or when the matter is serious.

Common Uses of Formal Letters

  • Job applications
  • Complaints or inquiries
  • Letters to schools, offices, or government departments
  • Business communication

Format of a Formal Letter

  1. Sender’s Address

  2. Date

  3. Receiver’s Address

  4. Subject

  5. Salutation

  6. Body of the Letter

  7. Closing

  8. Signature

Salutation in Formal Letters

Use:

  • Dear Sir,
  • Dear Madam,
  • Dear Mr. Sharma, (if name is known)

Body of the Letter

  • Write in a polite, professional tone
  • Be clear and concise
  • Avoid slang and informal words

How To End a Formal Letter: Yours Faithfully or Yours Sincerely?

This is a very common confusion.

Use Yours Faithfully

  • When you do not know the recipient’s name
  • Salutation examples:

        - Dear Sir,

        - Dear Madam,

Example:

Dear Sir,

Yours faithfully,
Rahul Kumar

Use Yours Sincerely

  • When you know the recipient’s name
  • Salutation examples:
        - Dear Mr. Singh,
        - Dear Ms. Roy,

Example:

Dear Mr. Singh,

Yours sincerely,
Rahul Kumar

👉 Quick Tip:

  • Name unknown → Yours faithfully
  • Name known → Yours sincerely

How To Write An Informal Letter

An informal letter is written to people you know personally. It is friendly and relaxed in tone.

Common Uses of Informal Letters

  • Writing to friends or relatives
  • Thank-you letters
  • Invitations
  • Personal updates

Format of an Informal Letter

  1. Address

  2. Date

  3. Salutation

  4. Body

  5. Closing

  6. Signature

Salutation in Informal Letters

Use:

  • Dear Friend,
  • Dear Riya,
  • My dear Brother,

Body of the Letter

  • Write naturally, as if talking
  • Express feelings freely
  • Use simple language

Closing in Informal Letters

Common endings include:

  • Yours lovingly,
  • Yours affectionately,
  • Best wishes,
  • With love,

Example:

Dear Riya,

Yours lovingly,
Ananya

Key Differences Between Formal and Informal Letters

Formal LetterInformal Letter
Professional toneFriendly tone
Fixed formatFlexible format
No slangCasual language allowed
Used for official purposesUsed for personal communication

Conclusion

Learning how to write a letter—both formal and informal—is a valuable life skill. Formal letters require structure, politeness, and the correct use of “Yours faithfully” and “Yours sincerely.” Informal letters, on the other hand, allow you to express your thoughts freely and warmly.

By following the correct format and tone, your letters will always leave a positive impression. Practice regularly, and letter writing will soon become easy and enjoyable.