FCE Informal Letter

In this post, we will look at how to write an informal letter for the FCE exam.

This is the second half of writing which you can choose to do in the exam. Learn more about the writing part in the FCE exam here.

 

Analyze the task

• What information do we need to include?
• What is the purpose of this essay?
• Who are we writing to?

The purpose of the letter is tо respond to a request for action from somebody else, such as to give information or suggestions. Alternatively, it could be to initiate action, for ехаmрlе, to request iпformation or invite somebody to do something. The task will tell you exactly what you have to do.
When it comes to who we are writing to, same as always, the task itself will tell you. The best part is that he is a friend so informal style is, of course, appropriate.
After you have carefully read the penfriends letter you will see that he will ask you a few questions. You must answer them all. Here are some examples: Can you book something for me, When will you be able to come, When will you be free, Can you do something for me, etc.

The beginning

Begin the informal letter with Dear + (a name they give you). Begin by asking some personal questions or making some personal comments. For example, if he won a contest, congratulate him; if he broke a leg, be sorry for him, etc.

The second paragraph

At the beginning of the second paragraph say why you are writing (About your plans, …; Since you told me about …; First of all, … etc.). This paragraph will be shaped by the “penfriend’s letter”, he could ask for advice regarding a problem or perhaps travel advice. If you need to change arrangements or perhaps turn him down don’t forget to give a reason why.

The general idea

Answer his questions. Remember, there is no need to lie. If you are busy or away there is no need to lie and pretend. If I was asked to come to visit my “penfriend” in September I will write that in September I usually have a lot of work to do and most probably won’t be able to, and ask how does he feel about August or December.

The ending

End your letter with an appropriate comment, don’t just say goodbye, that comes after.

• Anyway, write back soon and let me know what you think.
• It was lovely to hear from you!
• Anyway, I must dash now. Drop me a line.

If you don’t know the person you are writing to end the letter with Best wishes, and if you do:

Love,
Boris

All the best,
Boris

Useful phrases

Here are some phrases you can use in your letter:

1) Letter openings:

• How are you? I’m fine.
• Thanks for your letter. It was really nice to hear from you.
• I’m sorry I haven’t written for such а long time but …

2) Saying why you are writing:

• You asked me to recommend some (places to stay in my country)…
• I’ve managed to find out some information about (something) for you.
• About your planned visit,…

3) Additional letter endings:

• Write back soon.
• Looking forward to seeing you soon.
• Give mу regards to your pareпts.

Reminder! Don’t forget about commas!

In addition

And finally, let’s speak about word count and time management.
In this task, you will have to write between 140-190 words. That means that you can fit about 10 to 15 sentences. In such writings try to be straightforward, don’t add information that the teacher doesn’t need to know.
From my personal experience, I know that my usual sentences are about 12 to 16 words long and that means that I can write about 12 sentences to fit such criteria. You won’t lose marks if you write 5 words too many. Focus on writing what you have to write, and the word count will take care of itself. Don’t waste time in the exam counting how many words you have written!

The usual time-management is 10 – 25 – 5. 10min planning, 25min writing and 5min review.