The IELTS is a proficiency test for English that is famous among Indian students. It gives them the chance to study abroad. However, many test takers feel confused about the IELTS writing section. That is why in this article, you will learn the methods for writing an informal letter. Also, know that the tips you can follow with the writing mock test IELTS to sharpen your skills. So, read this article to know all about informal letters.
Types of Letters in IELTS Writing Section
The writing section in the general training exam of the IELTS consists of three different types of letters. The following is a brief account of these:
Formal letter:
These are letters that are written to people in the professional context. It can also include complaints, applications, or requests. In this letter type, you need to include a formal tone.
Informal letter:
These are letters that you write to a person whom you know very well. It can also be a family member or a friend of yours. This letter will follow an informal tone.
Semi-formal letter:
This is a letter type that falls in between a formal and an informal letter. The tone of the letter is neither too friendly nor too professional.
These are the kinds of letters in the IELTS. Next up are some methods for writing an informal letter.
Strategies for Writing an Informal Letter
An informal letter is an important part of the IELTS writing section in the general training exam. However, if you do not follow the right methods, you might not get the higher marks. Therefore, the following are the strategies to help you write an impressive informal letter.
Understand Topic
When you are writing a letter in the IELTS exam, it is crucial that you fathom the topic given to you. For that, you need to first read the questions and the instructions carefully. Also, analyze the question to find out the main theme from it.
Purpose
Another crucial factor that you need to take into account when writing an informal letter is the purpose. If you are not able to cover all the points in the letter, then you will get less credit. Hence, write down all the important points in the letter.
Correct Tone
As there are different types of letters in the IELTS writing section therefore it is crucial that you focus on the tone of the letter. If instead of writing using the informal tone, you use a different tone, then you will not get any scores.
Bullet Points
Informal letters include a situation and some specific elements. Thus, it is crucial that you include bullet points to convey these details. This will also make the letter smooth and logical.
Grammar
Another important part of the scoring criteria in the writing section is grammar. If you make any errors, then the examiner can cut your scores. Hence, ensure that you use the proper grammar rules for writing your letter.
Letter Structure
When writing an informal letter in the IELTS writing part, it is vital that you follow the template for it. This will help you write a letter in a proper flow and a clear language.
Next up are some of the tips suggested by the experts to solve the informal letter writing question in the IELTS exam.
Tips for Informal Letter Writing in IELTS
The writing task can be confusing for a lot of test takers; therefore, taking help from experts can prove beneficial for you. Hence, the following are some tips that will help you with your writing skills.
- Aim to write between 160 and 180 words. That way, you can ensure that you follow the 150-word limit. Also, it will save you time.
- You do not need to include an address in your letter. You can start with Dear followed by the person’s name or title.
- Identify who you’re writing to and what kind of relationship you have with them, as it affects the tone and style of your letter.
- Stay focused on why you’re writing the letter. Also, make sure you address the main purpose behind it.
- Ensure regular practice with the help of a writing mock test IELTS, which is offered online by many coaching centres.
- You will further need to come up with names and some background details to make your letter sound realistic.
Conclusion
To sum up, these are some of the techniques that you can use while writing informal letters. In addition to that, if you have any more doubts about the IELTS exam, you can take help from Gradding. It is a coaching center that offers support and many resources for IELTS preparation. They also provide writing, reading practice test, etc. that can help you ace the IELTS exam. You can also get the chance at free coaching here.
