How to Write a Letter for GCSE

In a formal letter you should:

• Include a date

• Use the correct salutation (greeting):

  • If you do not know the recipient’s name: use “Dear Sir/Madam”

  • If responding to a newspaper article: use “Dear Editor”

• Use the appropriate sign-off:

  • If you do not know their name: sign off with “Yours faithfully,”

  • If you are given a name: sign off with “Yours sincerely,”

• Introduce your letter clearly:

  • State what you are writing about, why, and what your viewpoint is

  • Avoid using “I am writing because...” – instead, match your wording to the task

  • For example: “I am writing to express my views on…”

• Organise your writing into logical paragraphs with clear, connected ideas

• Use topic sentences at the start of each paragraph to guide the reader

• Keep to one argument or point per paragraph — do not mix contrasting ideas within a paragraph