Writing a letter in English isn’t just for wedding invites or formal business. Whether you’re sending a heartfelt message, a savvy job application, or a casual note, knowing how to start, write and end a letter in English gives you confidence, clarity and style. This guide walks you through every step—opening addresses, main body, closing phrases—so your letter is polished and natural.
Why Letter Writing Still Matters
Even in our digital age, letters have impact. They appear in job applications, formal requests, international correspondence, formal complaints, and personal messages. A well-written letter says you’re thoughtful and serious. Plus, knowing how letters work also improves your email game.
Structure Of A Formal Letter
Here’s the basic layout for a formal letter you might send in English.
Sender Address
Your name
Street address
City, State/Province, Postcode
Country (if international)
Date
October 15, 2026
Recipient Address
Name
Title/Company
Street address
City, State/Province, Postcode
Country
Salutation (Greeting)
“Dear Mr. Smith,” (formal)
“Dear Ms. Alvarez,”
“Dear Dr. Johnson,”
Opening Paragraph
State your reason for writing. Be clear. Example:
“I am writing to express my interest in the position of Marketing Coordinator as advertised on your company website.”
Body Paragraphs
Paragraph 1: Provide background or context (“As a communications graduate with two years’ experience…”).
Paragraph 2: Main details and request (“I attached my resume for your review and would appreciate the opportunity to discuss…”).
Paragraph 3 (optional): Closing facts and call to action (“Please let me know if you require further information.”).
Closing Paragraph
Polite summary and thanks:
“Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to hearing from you.”
Sign-Off (Formal Closing)
“Yours faithfully,” (when you don’t know the name)
“Yours sincerely,” (when you used the recipient’s name)
“Respectfully,” (very formal)
Then:
Your name
Optional: job title, company
Structure Of A Friendly or Semi-Formal Letter
When writing to a friend, colleague, or someone you know, you can be more relaxed.
Opening Address
“Dear Emily,” / “Hi John,”
Opening Line
“I hope you’re doing well.” / “It’s been too long since we last spoke!”
Main Body
Write natural sentences. Use everyday tone. Talk about what you’re doing, ask about them, share stories.
Closing Line
“Can’t wait to hear from you.” / “Let’s catch up soon.”
Sign-Off
“Best wishes,” “Warm regards,” “Take care,”
Your name
Sample Formal Letter
[Let’s write one together]
Your Address
123 Maple Street
Anytown, AnyState 12345
Country
October 15, 2026
Mr David Brown
Hiring Manager
Global Marketing Ltd.
456 Oak Avenue
Bigcity, BC 67890
Country
Dear Mr Brown,
I am writing to apply for the position of Marketing Coordinator at Global Marketing Ltd., as advertised on your website. With a Bachelor’s degree in Communications and over two years’ experience in digital marketing, I have developed strong analytical skills and campaign success in both B2B and B2C sectors.
In my current role at Bright Media, I led a campaign that increased customer engagement by 30 % within six months. My proficiency in Google Analytics, SEO, and multilingual content strategy positions me to contribute effectively to your team. I have attached my résumé for your review and am available for an interview at your convenience.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your team and discussing how my background aligns with your needs.
Yours sincerely,
Alexandra Green
Communications Specialist
Sample Friendly Letter
Dear Mia,
Hope you’re doing great and enjoying the autumn air. It’s been ages since we caught up over coffee! I wanted to tell you that I finally booked tickets to visit your city next month—so excited. Let’s plan a weekend together.
How’s your new job going? I remember you mentioned it was very busy. I’ve been learning guitar and embarrassing myself daily, but it’s fun. Let’s meet on the 12th and explore the old part of town you love.
Take care and say hi to your dog for me!
Best wishes,
Alex
Key Phrases For Opening, Body, Closing
| Section | Formal Phrases | Friendly Phrases |
| Opening Greeting | “Dear Mr./Ms. [Surname],” | “Hi [First Name],” / “Dear [First Name],” |
| Opening Line | “I am writing to …” / “Please accept my letter regarding …” | “I hope you’re well.” / “It’s been too long!” |
| Body – Making a Request | “Could you please…” / “I would appreciate it if…” | “Could we…?” / “Would you like to…?” |
| Body – Providing Reason | “This letter concerns…” / “I would like to draw your attention to…” | “I just wanted to tell you…” / “Have you heard about…?” |
| Closing Line | “Thank you for your attention to this matter.” | “Can’t wait to hear from you.” |
| Sign-Off | “Yours faithfully,” / “Yours sincerely,” | “Warm regards,” / “Take care,” |
Common Mistakes Learners Make
- Using “Dear Sir/Madam” when you know the person’s name (missed opportunity to personalise).
- Mixing formal and informal tone (“Hey John, Dear Mr. Smith,”) — pick one.
- Forgetting comma after greeting or sign-off: “Dear Ms. Li,” + “Kind regards,”.
- Using outdated closings like “Yours truly” in situations where they’re not normal.
- Writing the body as one huge paragraph — it becomes hard to read.
- Using sloppy language (slang, abbreviations) in formal letters.
- Forgetting to include your printed name and contact info.
Practice Exercises
Exercise A: Write two letters (one formal, one friendly) about the same topic (for example, inviting someone to an event).
Exercise B: Rewrite this opening to be more formal:
“Hi Jessica, hope you’re ok. I’m writing about the job you advertised…”
Exercise C: Choose the right sign-off for these situations:
- Letter to a professor you don’t know.
- Note to a long-time friend.
- Message to your CEO about a project.
Yak’s Final Chewables
Whether you’re writing to impress a recruiter or reconnecting with an old friend, knowing how to start, write and end a letter in English will always pay off. The structure gives you clarity. The tone gives you connection. The right closing leaves a good impression. Even if you’re sending an email, treating it like a proper letter helps you stand out. Even a yak puts thought into its not-so-formal “Dear Grassland”.