IELTS General Writing Task 1: formal and informal
Let's compare some of the formal and informal features in the two letters that you can see if you click here.
Formal letter
- Beginning: Dear Sir or Madam
- Stating the purpose: I am writing with regard to
- Formal choice of language: due to, I intended, as a result of, caused me great inconvenience, compensate me, the additional flight
- No contractions: I am (not "I'm")
- Ending: I look forward to receiving your response. Yours faithfully,
Informal letter
- Beginning: Dear John
- Stating the purpose: I'm just writing to let you know that
- Informal choice of language: As you know, Well, prices are crazy, on the bright side, it's got nice big windows, a lovely view, if you ever fancy, great to see you
- Use of contractions: I'm, we've, isn't, it's
- Ending: Keep in touch! All the best
