Letter Writing Techniques

Letter writing is a fading art but still important to master.

With changes in modern communication and the growth of email and texting, "old-fashioned" letter writing has to some extent faded. There are appropriate times to write letters, however, and when doing so you should be prepared to send effective communications.

Considerations

When writing a letter, as with any communication, consider your audience as you write. You need to use different tone, word choice and even length depending on who is the recipient. A letter to a grandparent will be much different than a letter to your friend, and to communicate effectively with a letter, adjust it as appropriate.

Types

One of the more common letters is a thank-you letter, sent after receiving a gift or having a job interview. Cover letters, sent with resumes, are important letters to master. Business letters, sent from one business to another, must be professional and efficient.

Format

The top of your letter should include the date, followed by the address block of your recipient. After an appropriate salutation, write the body of your letter and then close with a sign-off.

References

• The Canadian College of English Language: Job Search Management
• Letter Writing Guide: Letter Writing and Sample Letters