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Informal Letter Format in English for Students

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Team eSaral

eSaral Academic and Editorial Team

15 min read

Summary

An informal letter is a personal letter written to friends, family or close acquaintances in a friendly, conversational tone. The format is: sender's address, date, salutation (e.g. "Dear Priya"), an introductory paragraph, body paragraphs, a warm conclusion, and a sign-off like "Lots of love" followed by your name. No strict formal language is needed.

Informal Letter Format in English

Hey there! Let's talk about informal letters. An informal letter is like chatting with your friends or family on paper. You write it to share what's happening in your life and to send your love and best wishes. Informal letters are all about being relaxed and friendly.

You would usually write an informal letter to someone you are close to, like a family member, a close friend, or someone you know well. The words you use are like the ones you use when you talk to them in person.

The best part about an informal letter is that you can write about almost anything — winning a competition, a movie you just watched, or plans for an upcoming trip. You can also ask how your friends or family are doing, invite them somewhere, congratulate them, or just say hello.

Unlike formal letters, you don't need to follow strict rules about language. But there is still a format to follow when writing an informal letter in English: start with a friendly greeting, share your news or thoughts, and end warmly.

Informal Letter Format at a Glance

Part

Where it goes

Example

Sender's address

Top left

42, Link Road, Bhopal

Date

Below the address

5 October 2026

Salutation

Left, after a line space

Dear Priya,

Introduction

First paragraph

I hope you are doing well.

Body

One or two paragraphs

Your news, story or advice

Conclusion

Last paragraph

Do write back soon.

Sign-off and name

Bottom left

Lots of love, / Riya

There is no receiver's address and no subject line in an informal letter.

How to Write an Informal Letter?

Here are the steps to write an informal letter.

Salutation

When you write an informal letter to your friends and family, you can make them feel special by addressing them in a friendly way. Use their names with words like "Dear", "My dear" or "Dearest" — for example, "Dear Shubhi" or "My dear Honey".

If you and your friend have nicknames for each other, you can use those too, like "Dearest Rose". You can also use the relationship, like "Dear Uncle", "Dearest Grandma" or "My dear Cousin".

If you are writing to someone older than you or in a senior position, it is polite to use a title with their surname, like Mr., Mrs. or Ms. For example, "Dear Mr. Jain".

Introduction / Body of the Letter

The opening lines of an informal letter set the mood. You can begin by asking how the person is, for example: "I hope this letter finds you in good health."

After that, explain why you are writing. You can go into as much detail as you want, because an informal letter is relaxed and friendly — more like a chat than a formal letter.

If you are writing to someone older or in a more respected position, stay polite and respectful throughout.

Conclusion

End your informal letter on a friendly note, like saying goodbye after a good conversation. You can write "Take care and stay well" or "Wishing you lots of happiness."

Let the reader know you would like to hear from them: "I can't wait to hear from you soon" or "Looking forward to your reply." This keeps the conversation going.

Signature

In an informal letter, there is no strict rule for how to sign off. Here are some friendly closings people often use:

  • "Lots of love"
  • "Yours lovingly"
  • "Best wishes"
  • "With love"
  • "Warm regards" (for someone you know less closely)

Pick the one that fits your relationship with the reader, then write your name below it.

Informal Letter to a Friend

There is a general pattern most people follow in an informal letter. These are guidelines, not strict rules.

Address

Write your own address (the sender's address) at the top left of the page. Make sure it is complete so that the reader can write back to you. If the reader lives in another country, include your country too.

Date

Write the date just below your address. This tells the reader when you wrote the letter. Write it in full, such as "5 October 2026", so it is clear and easy to read.

Greeting

For friends or people your own age, use their first name, like "Dear Aashi". For parents, write "Dear Mom" or "Dear Dad".

If you are writing to someone older whom you want to show respect to, use a title with their surname. For example, if you are writing to your teacher, you can say "Dear Mrs. Sharma".

Introductory Paragraph

The first paragraph sets the mood for the whole letter. Start by asking how the person is doing or by saying you hope they are well. Keep it friendly and relaxed — not straight to the point like a business letter.

Body of the Letter

The whole letter should have a friendly tone, but how you write depends on the reader. With a friend, you can be casual and even playful. With an older relative, show more respect.

A good way to find the right tone is to think about how you speak to that person, and write in a similar way.

Conclusion

In the last paragraph, sum up why you wrote and say a warm goodbye. Don't forget to invite the person to write back: "I'd love to hear from you soon!"

How do you write a signature in an informal letter?

There is no fixed way to sign off. You can use closings like "Lots of love", "Yours lovingly" or "Best wishes", followed by your name.

Sample Letter to a Friend

Write a letter to a friend inviting her for a get-together next month.

Bahubali Street,

Jhumri Telaiya– 333333

21/2/2023

Dear Savi,

I hope you're doing well, and that everyone at home is safe and healthy. It's been quite some time since we all got together, and I've been thinking it's a good idea for us to plan a meet-up. I'm thinking of organizing a get-together next month, and I'd love to hear your thoughts on it.

I've thought about meeting up on a Friday evening and spending the weekend at a lovely resort in Munnar. The weather there is fantastic, and it's a great place to relax and unwind. We can even explore some tourist spots if everyone's interested. If you're on board with this plan, we can reach out to the others too.

I'll visit you next weekend to discuss this in more detail. I'm looking forward to your response and hope we can meet up soon.

Love 

Shrishti.

Informal Letter for Class 8

A sample of Informal letters for class 8 is given below:

  1. Write a letter to your younger brother about the Importance of the Value of Time.

House No: 42

Link Road No.: 1

Bhopal

25th May, 2023

Dear Rekha,

I'm writing this letter to share some important thoughts about the value of time. If we look at history, we can see that great people made the most of their time. Without understanding the importance of time, they wouldn't have achieved greatness. You must use your time wisely now. If you postpone tasks you can do today, you might never get to them. Many things we lose can be recovered, but time, once lost, is gone forever.

Youth is often called the seed time of life. If you plant good seeds during your youth, you'll reap a bountiful harvest. Wasting time can lead to regrets later on. I truly believe that you can achieve greatness if you cherish and make the most of your time.

Yours

Shubhi

  1. Letter to father asking for money for the purchase of books and to meet other expenses.

F-11 Dwarka,

Delhi

September 9, 2023

Papa,

I'm excited to share that I secured the top position in my class during the first terminal test. Now, I'm looking to buy some books and also need to pay for the second terminal exam fees. I kindly request you to send me Rs. 1000 to cover both the fees and book expenses. Your support would be greatly appreciated.

Yours Lovingly

Siddharth

 

Write a letter to your neighbor about the nuisance caused by his dog.

Quarter No. 8

Vasant Vihar

New Delhi

8th February 2023

Dear Rahul,

I want to kindly inform you about the ongoing trouble caused by your bulldog. It's become a constant nuisance as it not only barks loudly but also chases and bites people. Just yesterday, it bit a postman who is now in the hospital. This situation is causing fear among children who can't freely play outside, and your dog even enters our garden and damages our plants.

While it's your right to have a dog for home security, it's important to keep it on a leash. The loud barking is disturbing, and we can't shoo it away. I hope you understand our concerns and take steps to address this issue, so we don't have to file a formal complaint. Wishing you all the best.

Yours 

Raj

  1. Write a letter to your friend consoling him at the death of his father.

House No. 76

Aakriti Eco City

Bhopal

April 14, 2023

Dear Navya,

I'm truly sorry to hear about your father's passing. It's hard to believe he's gone so soon. My parents are also deeply saddened by this news. I can't find the right words to comfort you during this tough time. All I can do is pray to the Almighty for your father's soul to find peace. Please know that we're sending our best wishes and love to you and your family.

Yours 

Seema.

  1. Write a letter to your pen friend describing the last prize-giving ceremony at your school.

Flat no. 13

Janakpuri

New Delhi

May 14, 2023

Dear Tanu,

Thank you for your letter. You asked about our recent school prize-giving ceremony, so I'm sharing a brief description of it. The event took place in the last week of April right on our school grounds. We decorated the school building beautifully. The chief guest arrived a few minutes before it all began and received a warm welcome.

At 10 a.m., the ceremony started with a recital of the Holy Quran. The headmaster then read out the report and called each prize recipient by name. The president of the ceremony presented the prizes. I'm thrilled to tell you that I received two prizes!

To conclude, the president gave a speech with valuable advice for us students. The event wrapped up at 2 p.m. Sending you warm wishes and love.

Yours 

Shubha

Informal Letter for Class 9

A sample of the Informal letter for class 9 is given below:

  1. You are Saif. Write a letter to your friend describing your boarding school in about 120-150 words.

B-32, sector-5

Rohini

New Delhi-110000

March 15, 2023

Dear Irfan,

I hope you're doing well! I wanted to let you know that I'm in great health and spirits. It's been almost a month since I moved to the boarding school, and I'm really happy here. The classrooms and dorms are big and comfy. We have fantastic science labs and a library filled with wonderful books.

What's even more exciting is that the school has awesome sports facilities like a swimming pool, horse riding track, and an archery range. I'm sure I'll have an interesting and fun life here. Although I've made new friends, I still miss you and our old friends. Please send my regards to your parents. Take care!

Yours Lovingly

Saif

(Want to write about your own school? See eSaral's Essay on My School Life.)

There is a yearly fair in the nearest town from the residence of your friend Kartik. He is living in a village with his/her parents. His/her parents want to see this fair, but your friend Kartik is busy in preparation for the coming exam. Write a letter to your friend advising him/her to accompany their parents to any fair. You are Raj resident of Janaki Nagar Meerut

House No. 67

Janaki Nagar

Meerut U.P.

Pincode: 234678

Dear Kartik,

I was delighted to receive your wonderful letter, even though it's been a while. Thank you for writing! I hope all of you are in good health and high spirits. You mentioned that you're busy preparing for your exams, and that's great to hear.

Now, I wanted to suggest something important. Uncle and aunt are eager to attend the annual fair in your town, and I believe you should accompany them. There's no one better suited for this task than you. It's a moral responsibility to be there for them, especially since they've grown older and need guidance.

I also advise that you make the most of your early mornings for focused studying. It's a valuable time for deep learning. I hope you consider my advice, and in your next letter, you can mention your plans to visit the fair with your parents.

Please convey my warm regards and respect to your aunt and uncle, and send my love to your younger brother, Gaurav. Take care!

Yours

Raj

  1. Your cousin is a brilliant student but he is not keeping good health because he avoids homemade food and is very fond of eating outside. Write a letter telling him/her about the harmful effects of junk food and advising him/her to maintain good health in not more than 100 words. You are Jasmine of C-8, Lawrence Road, New Delhi.

House No 55

Lawrence Road.

   New Delhi

  14th July. 2023

Dear Josmi,

I'm doing well here, and I hope the same for you. Your letter mentioned your ongoing health concerns and the fact that you're often away from home. I recall that you tend to avoid homemade food and prefer eating out. This is where your health might be suffering due to carelessness. Homemade meals are generally better for your health, but you tend to skip them. On the other hand, you enjoy eating out, but it's not good for your health. The quality, preparation, and ingredients used in outside food are often subpar because sellers prioritize profit over quality. Eating substandard food can harm your body and keep you from being healthy.

My sincere advice is to avoid eating out and opt for homemade meals. Consider bringing your lunch with you. I guarantee that this will lead to improved health. Please convey my regards to my uncle and aunt and send my love to Sunny. Take care!

Yours Lovingly

Jasmine

Informal Letter for Class 10

A sample of the Informal letter for class 9 is given below:

  1. You are Aaliya. Write a letter to your friend congratulating him on his new job offer in about 120-150 words. He just graduated from college.

B-108

Regency apartments

South Bombay

28 December 2023

Dear Pooja,

I just got the news that you've landed a new job, and I couldn't be happier for you. Congratulations!

I know that finding a good job in today's challenging job market isn't easy, especially for a recent graduate with limited work experience. Your determination and resourcefulness in your job search are truly admirable. You've not only inspired me but also many others, proving that where there's a will, there's always a way. Vishnu, you've made us all proud!

Your computer skills and artistic talents will make you an excellent graphics designer. I have high hopes that we'll hear fantastic news from your direction in the coming years. May you achieve all your dreams and continue to excel in your career.

Yours truly

Aaliyah

  1. You are on a week-long school trip to Kasauli. Write a letter to your mother, sharing your well-being and what you have experienced so far.   

76, Punchsheel Nagar

Bhopal (M.P.)

Date: 10/10/2023

Dear Mom,

Hi there, how are you? I'm doing well, and I hope this letter brings you lots of joy. I wanted to share that I'm having an amazing time on this trip.

I'm having a blast with my friends here. So far, we've tried out activities like bridge crossing, bungee jumping, and zip-lining. Surprisingly, these adventures weren't as scary as you had warned; they were quite thrilling and enjoyable. Tomorrow, we're gearing up for a four-day hiking adventure.

The food here is delicious, although it can't quite compare to your cooking, of course. Don't worry; we're all safe and sound, and none of us have suffered any serious injuries.

I hope you're not missing me too much. I plan to bring back a ton of souvenirs for you and Dad. Please give him my warm regards and say hello on my behalf. Take care!

Yours Lovingly

Shubham

 Your uncle sent you a gift to congratulate you for topping the district in the 10th Board exams. Write a letter to him, thanking him for the gift.

Gumastha Nagar

Indore (M.P.)

15 May, 2023

Dear Uncle,

Hello there, how are you? I'm feeling fantastic, and I hope this letter brings you a lot of joy.

I received your letter this morning, and it brought me great excitement. Not only had you written to me after a long time, but you also mentioned sending me a gift. The gift was a wonderful surprise! I can't believe you remembered my passion for writing. I absolutely adore the notebook, and the pen set is not only cute but also writes smoothly!

I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for your thoughtful gift and your unwavering support. It means a lot to me. I'm thrilled to know that you'll continue to support me and stay in touch.

Please convey my warm regards to Auntie on my behalf!

Yours Truly

Shikha

(Writing to a teacher instead? See ideas in eSaral's Essay on My Favourite Teacher.)

Frequently Asked Questions

How is an informal letter different from a formal letter?

An informal letter is written to someone you know personally — a friend or family member — using a friendly, conversational tone. A formal letter is written to an official, organisation, or stranger using professional language. Informal letters do not require a subject line or the recipient's address, while formal letters always include both.

What sign-off should I use in an informal letter?

Use warm, personal sign-offs such as "Lots of Love," "Yours affectionately," "With love," or "Your best friend." Avoid "Yours faithfully" and "Yours sincerely" — these are reserved for formal letters. The right sign-off depends on your relationship: use "Lots of Love" for close friends and family, and "Warm Regards" for acquaintances.

What is the correct format of an informal letter in English?

An informal letter follows this sequence: sender's address → date → salutation (e.g., "Dear Priya") → introductory paragraph → body paragraphs → concluding paragraph → sign-off (e.g., "Lots of Love") → sender's name. You do not need to include the recipient's address or a subject line in an informal letter.

What are some good opening lines for an informal letter?

Strong opening lines include: "I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits," "It has been ages since we last spoke — I hope everything is going wonderfully," and "I was absolutely delighted to receive your letter last week!" Avoid opening with "I am writing to you because..." — it sounds stiff and is better suited to formal correspondence.

Can I use contractions like "I'm" or "you've" in an informal letter?

Yes, contractions are perfectly acceptable — and even encouraged — in informal letters because they make your writing sound natural and conversational. However, if you are writing to someone significantly older or in a position of respect, keep the tone warm but slightly more measured. Avoid slang or very casual phrases in such cases

How long should an informal letter be for a school exam?

For Class 8, 9, and 10 school exams, an informal letter should ideally be between 150 and 200 words. It must cover all required parts: address, date, salutation, introduction, body, conclusion, and sign-off. Examiners look for clarity, correct format, and appropriate tone — not length alone.

Do I write my address in an informal letter?

Yes. You write only the sender's address (your own address) at the top-left of the page. Unlike formal letters, you do not write the recipient's address in an informal letter. Always include your address so the reader can write back to you.

Where can I find more informal letter topics to practise?

Practise the samples on this page — invitations, advice, thanks, congratulations and condolence letters. eSaral's essays such as Essay on Value of Time and Essay on Health is Wealth give you ready points you can turn into a letter on the same topic.

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Team eSaral

eSaral Academic and Editorial Team

Team eSaral is the collective author profile for educational content created by eSaral’s teachers and academic contributors. The team draws on expertise from IIT graduates, doctors, experienced educators and subject specialists to develop resources for JEE, NEET and school students. Our articles aim to explain concepts clearly and help students study with confidence.

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