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How to Write a Letter. Whether you are writing a business letter or a friendly letter, these
tips will guide you. You will need Stationery A pen A stamp An envelope A computer (optional)
and a printer (optional). Step 1. Start by including the date. It should go in the top-right
corner if you're writing a personal letter, and in the top-left corner if you're writing
a business letter. With a business letter, continue by writing the recipient's name two
lines below the date, and their address one line below their name. Step 2. Dear" is appropriate
for either a business or personal letter. If you don't know the recipient, use "To Whom
it May Concern." For informal letters, use "Hello," or "Hi," followed by a comma and
the person's first name. Step 3. State the purpose of the letter in the first paragraph.
Step 4. Write the body of the letter clearly and logically so the reader knows why you
are writing. Step 5. Close the letter with a paragraph describing the action you expect
the recipient to take. Step 6. Choose an informal or formal closing based on the recipient.
"Sincerely," or "Regards," works in nearly every situation. Write your name and sign
the letter. If you have typed the letter, type your name four lines below the closing
so you can handwrite your signature in that space. Step 7. Write your address in the upper-left
corner of the envelope. Write the recipient's address in the middle. Seal the letter in
the envelope, place a stamp in the top-right corner, and mail it. Did you know Did you
know? The U.S. Postal service delivers to more than 149 million residences, businesses,
and post office boxes.