IELTS Writing General Training

IELTS Writing General Training

In today’s article we will discuss about for IELTS General Training – Writing module which consist of two tasks: –

Task 1: Letter Writing

Task 2: Essay Writing

In Task 1 writing module it can be either informal, semi-formal or formal writing, whereas in Task 2 is always formal writing

This post we will specifically discuss thedifference between formal and informal letter.

What is Formal and Informal Letter?

In Writing Task 1, you need to decide the writing style based on the type of question asked – Formal or Informal letter.

 Informal Letter are those lettersin which you are asked to write a letter to someone you know.

Formal letter are those letters in which you are asked to write to someone you don’t know, in this scenario you must respond in form of Formal letter.

The levels of formality in English Language differs depending on the style you choose to write. The use of English will not be the same for Informal as well as Formal Writing.

Quick look on Do’s & Don’ts of writing Informal and Formal Letters in IELTS General Writing

Let’s understand these points with appropriate example.

1. Vocabulary Makes the Real Difference between Formal & Informal English

Vocabulary plays a very important part in writing formal and Informal letters .Words that we use to convey message in our day-to-day conversation are informal while the words used in books, contracts, or business letters are formal.

For example,

Informal: Why don’t you come to my house?

Formal: I would like to invite you to visit my house.

Here are some more words that you can take into consideration while writing letters.

2. One Style of writing that accepts Abbreviations/Contractions and One Not

In Informal Writing, you can use abbreviations as well as contractions. But, you cannot use them in case of Formal Writing.

For example,

Informal: I’m waiting for you at my place.Formal: I am waiting for you at my place.

Informal: Turn on the TV.

Formal: Kindly turn on the television.

Thus, you must adapt your writing in such a way that it suits the style of the letter.

3. Be Careful with the Emphasizing words

When you want to make something clear or draw attention of the reader, you can use emphasizing words. Again, depending on the style of writing, these words vary.

Have a look at some of the below listed words and make their appropriate use while drafting your letter.

4. Appropriate Use of Phrasal Verbs is Important

To avoid over-formal language, we make use of phrasal verbs. But what happens when you need to write a formal letter? Though we think of phrasal verbs as means of conveying in an informal way, there are many of them that can be appropriately used for formal writing.

Well, here is an example.

Informal: Researchers did a survey.

Formal: Researchers carried out a survey.

5. Sentence Structure differs based on Formal & Informal Writing

In an Informal Letter Writing, you can write short and simple sentences.Whereas, in Formal Letter writing, sentences are long and complicated. Each point you write needs to be elaborated and detailed.

For example,

Informal: Went toKerala for the weekend. Lots to tell you.

Formal: We went toKerala for the weekend. We have many things to tell you.

6. Letter Expressions Vary depending on The Style of Writing

Informal letters begin with Dear + Name of the Receiver and ends with Best Wishes/Regards + Your First Name.

Formal letters begin with Dear Sir/Madam and ends with Yours Faithfully + Full Name.

Conclusion

These are some of the common differences that you must take care of while writing an informal or formal letter. Practice writing letters as many as you can before you appear for the actual IELTS Exam.

Thank You

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