Among the test you’d take when on the writing module of your IELTS test is letter writing. And to do this well enough, you have to know how to write the three different types of letters — formal, informal and semi-formal letter. If you don’t know how to write an IELTS semi-formal letter, that’s not a problem.
You need adequate knowledge of this and that’s why we wrote this post to educate you on how to write IELTS semi-formal letter.
Keep reading to learn.
What is a Semi-formal Letter?
This is the type of letter you send to someone you know but don’t have a cordial relationship with. The relationship you have with such a person may be business or professional.
It combines the features of an informal and formal letter.
Features of a Semi-formal Letter
- Your address as the writer
- Salutation: You address the receiver by their surname. For instance, Dear Miss Willie, Dear Mr. Jones, etc.
- Introduction: The way you introduce your semi-formal letter should neither be too formal nor informal. Remember it’s a combination of both letters.
- Body of your letter: Your letter should be written in different paragraphs and each paragraph should contain one idea.
- Complimentary Close: This is how you end your letter. You may decide to end it with ‘Yours sincerely’, ‘Yours truly’, ‘Best wishes’, ‘Best regards’, etc.
How to Write IELTS Semi-formal Letter
When writing a semi-formal letter for your IELTS test, you have to first consider the recipient of your letter. This is necessary so as to help you decide on the tone and style of formality of the letter.
If, for instance, you are to write a letter to your manager at work, since you know them, you don’t have to sound too formal. Rather than address them as ‘Dear Manager’, as you would in a formal letter, you address them by their surname.
Furthermore, how you introduce your semi-formal letter depends on your reason for writing.
You can open your letter by explaining your reason for writing. You simply have to rephrase the question you are given and construct your introduction with it.
Another tip on how to write IELTS semi-formal letter is to organise the letter into four to five paragraphs. Moreso, each paragraph should contain only one idea.
This, it is important that before you set your pen to paper, you have an idea of how to structure your letter.
For a chance to get a high band score, avoid repeating the same words in your letter.
It’s an English proficiency test and you need to show your examiner that you are indeed proficient with the language. Hence, flaunt your vocabulary but avoid sounding verbose.
Use words that show that you have a strong command of English language even if your letter will be limited to 150 words alone. Reduce your use of contracted forms, colloquial language, phrasal verbs, idioms, etc. Don’t use shorthands too.
Generally, your use of contracted forms such as ‘aren’t’, ‘can’t’, etc., depends on the overall formality of your letter and who you are writing to. Hence, maintain a tone of neutrality even though you aren’t expected to sound too formal.
Remember to cross-check your work and proofread for punctuation, spelling, and grammatical errors. If present in your writing, they could mar your chances of achieving a high band score.
Sample of IELTS Semi-formal Letter
Dear Miss Willie,
I am writing to request permission to be absent from work on Friday June 4th, 2021.
My parents will celebrate their wedding anniversary on June 5th and they want all their children and grandchildren to be present during the occasion in one of the event centres in Port Harcourt city, Rivers State.
To fully share in my parents’ joy, I have to leave Lagos for Rivers on Friday and that can only happen if I am absent from work. I have spoken to John and he has accepted to stand in for me while I am away. I have also cleared my desk and have no task scheduled for Friday.
I would be very grateful if you grant me the permission to be absent from work on Friday. I promise to report unfailingly on Monday and take up from where I stopped prior to my absence.
Kind regards,
Aniekan Andikan
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