Features and Format of an Informal Letter

We have different types of letters and different styles of writing them. Formal, semi-formal and informal letters are the three types of letters we have.

Informal letters are friendly letters to contemporaries (classmates/colleagues, friends and relatives), close older relatives (father, mother, uncle etc.) and close personal friends.

Features

1. An informal letter must be chatty. Open minded and discuss freely, as if you are actually chatting with the receiver. 
2. The language must be very familiar, colloquialisms and slang are expected to be used, but do not overdo it e.g. “How thin” rings no less pain when that coconut head for me. Bye for now. 
3. Use short forms. They are expected here. E.g. I’m, you’ve, can’t, he’s etc. 
4. In the first paragraph, inquire after the welfare of the recipient and tell him about your own welfare. 
5. Bring in other topics of interest to both of you into the letter, but keep the main topic in mind as you write. 
6. In the concluding paragraph, send greetings to people known to both of you. 

Format

The format is as shown in the box.

C.H.S Uronti,

P.O Box 1008,

Uronti,

10th June, 2012.

My dear____________,

How are____________

I’m____________

I learnt____________

As they____________

She left____________

Really, we____________

When____________

Give my regards to____________

Yours sincerely,

Bisi

Salutation

Introductory paragraph

Body of the letter in paragraphs

Conclusion

Informal letters are the easiest to write, in that no limitations are placed on you as regards choice of language and content, provided you do not write off the topic or use official language. However, you have to use correct grammar and punctuate correctly.

EVALUATION

What are the features of an informal letter?