What Makes an Informal Letter Different
The informal letter in SPM English tests your ability to write naturally to a friend, relative, or someone you know personally. Unlike the formal letter, you can use contractions, colloquial expressions, and a warm tone.
But “informal” does not mean “careless.” Examiners still mark you on content, language accuracy, and organisation. The difference is in tone, not in effort.
The Format That Gets Full Marks
Every informal letter must follow this structure:
1. Address and Date Write your address in the top-right corner, followed by the date. Unlike formal letters, you only write YOUR address — not the recipient’s.
2. Greeting “Dear [Name],” — never “Dear Sir/Madam” (that is formal). Use the person’s first name.
3. Opening Paragraph Start with a friendly opener:
- “How are you? I hope you and your family are doing well.”
- “It’s been a while since we last met! I’m writing to tell you about…”
4. Body Paragraphs (2-3 paragraphs) Address all the content points given in the question. Each point should get at least 2-3 sentences. Use linking words naturally: “By the way,” “Anyway,” “Oh, I almost forgot to mention…”
5. Closing Paragraph End warmly:
- “Well, I have to go now. Write back soon!”
- “That is all for now. Take care and say hi to your family.”
6. Sign Off “Your friend,” or “Love,” followed by your name.
5 Mistakes That Cost You Marks
Mistake 1: Using Formal Language
“I am writing to inform you…” is formal letter language. In an informal letter, say “I wanted to tell you…” or “Guess what happened!”
Mistake 2: Missing Content Points
The question gives you 3-4 content points. Miss even one and you lose marks. Underline each point and tick it off as you write.
Mistake 3: Being Too Short
Aim for 200-250 words. Students who write 150 words lose marks for underdeveloped ideas. Each content point needs at least 3 sentences of development.
Mistake 4: No Paragraphing
One giant block of text looks messy and costs you organisation marks. Start a new paragraph for each content point.
Mistake 5: Wrong Tone Throughout
Mixing formal and informal tones confuses examiners. If your letter says “Furthermore” and “LOL” in the same paragraph, you have a tone problem. Stay consistently warm and conversational.
Sample Opening and Closing
Strong opening: “Dear Sarah, How have you been? It feels like ages since we last chatted! I just got back from an amazing school trip and I could not wait to tell you all about it.”
Strong closing: “Anyway, I have to run — Mum is calling me for dinner. Write back and tell me what you have been up to! I really miss hanging out with you. Your friend, Amirah”
Notice how the tone is warm and conversational, but the language is still accurate and well-organised.
How to Practise Effectively
The fastest way to improve your informal letter writing is through regular practice with feedback. Write one letter per week using past-year questions, and have someone check your format, tone, and content coverage.
Many students write multiple letters but never get specific feedback on what they are doing wrong. That is like practising the wrong piano notes for months — effort without improvement.
If you want personalised feedback on your letter writing, our tutors mark every essay within 24 hours with line-by-line comments. WhatsApp us to find out how it works.
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