How to Write an Informal Letter | Complete Guide + Samples [2025]

In today’s world, where emails and instant messages dominate communication, knowing how to write an informal letter is a valuable skill that retains a timeless charm. This guide will walk you through the process, helping you understand the nuances of informal style and the appropriate letter format. Unlike formal letters that follow strict rules of syntax and voice (grammar), informal letters are characterized by a conversational tone, allowing you to connect more genuinely with the recipient.

Whether you’re sending a letter from a friend or simply reaching out with life updates, informal writing offers a refreshing and heartfelt way to communicate—something that even the most engaging posts on Quora can’t replicate.

So, let’s dive in and learn how to organize your thoughts, choose the right words, and provide a message that resonates.

Formal vs. Informal Letters: Key Differences

Before we dive into how to write an informal letter, it’s helpful to understand how informal letters differ from formal ones.

Formal Letters

Formal letters are usually written for business or professional purposes. They adhere to a specific format and maintain a polite and respectful tone. Examples of formal letters include business letters, application letters, and complaint letters.

Examples of formal letters include business correspondence, job applications, and other structured communications. For guidance on formal writing, here’s a detailed resource on how to write a formal letter.

Informal Letters

On the other hand, informal letters are characterized by their conversational tone and personal touch. They are free from rigid structures and formal language. These are the letters we usually write to friends, family, or acquaintances to share personal experiences or simply to stay in touch.

How to Write an Informal Letter: Step-by-Step Guide

Writing an informal letter is simple and enjoyable. Below is a practical, step-by-step guide to help you write a letter that feels authentic and engaging.

Step 1. Start with the Sender’s Address and Date

Every letter needs to tell the recipient where it comes from and when it was written.

• Write your address on the top left-hand side of the page.
• Below it, write the date in a clear format, such as “February 8, 2025.”
• Including your address and date helps the receiver write back to you if needed and also provides context about when the letter was sent.

Example:
123 Maple Lane
Springfield, IL 62704
February 8, 2025

Step 2. Add a Greeting (Salutation)

The greeting or salutation sets the tone of the letter and addresses the person you are writing to.

• Use a friendly salutation such as “Dear [First Name]” or just the first name of the person.
• If the recipient is a close friend, you can even use casual phrases like “Hi” or “Hey.”

Examples:

• Dear Sarah,
• Hey John,

Unlike formal letters, informal ones don’t require titles such as “Mr.” or “Mrs.” unless you prefer to add them for respect.

Step 3. Opening Lines: Set the Mood

Start your letter by making the recipient feel valued.

• Ask about their well-being: “How have you been?”
• Reference previous communication: “Thanks for your last letter—it was great to hear from you.”
• Share a reason for writing: “I decided to write to tell you all about my recent trip.”

This initial connection creates a personal tone and makes the letter feel meaningful.

Example:
“I can’t wait to tell you about my new job. It’s been quite the journey since we last spoke.”

Step 4. Body of the Letter

The body is where you organize your thoughts and share your main message.

• Structure your content: Write in short paragraphs to make the letter easy to read.
• Sentence clause structure: Keep your sentences varied but clear to maintain reader engagement.
• Subject (grammar): Focus each paragraph on one main subject to keep your letter organized.

You can write about anything you want, such as:

1. Life updates: “I’ve recently taken up gardening, and it’s been so rewarding.”
2. Future plans: “I’m hoping to visit you next weekend if that works for you.”
3. Questions: “How are your parents doing? Please tell them I said hello.”

Use contractions (grammar) like “can’t” or “won’t” to keep your tone conversational. Don’t shy away from colloquial expressions, as these make the letter feel genuine.

Step 5. Writing to a Close

As you approach the end of the letter, provide thoughtful closing remarks.

• Express well-wishes: “Take care and stay safe.”
• Suggest future communication: “Write back when you get the chance.”
• Include a friendly reminder: “Don’t forget to send me those pictures from your trip!”

This helps the letter feel complete and leaves the recipient with a warm impression.

Step 6. Closing Salutation and Signature

End your letter with a friendly closing salutation, followed by your signature.

Examples:

• Yours truly,
• Best,
• Love,
• Take care,
  [Your Name]

If the letter is handwritten, signing your name adds a personal touch.

If you’re seeking help with more structured communication, such as a recommendation for someone’s professional growth, check out this detailed guide on how to write a letter of recommendation.

Step 7. Addressing the Envelope

Make sure the envelope is correctly addressed so the letter reaches the intended recipient.

• Write the recipient’s full name and address on the front of the envelope, starting from the left-hand side.
• Include your return address in the top left corner in case the letter cannot be delivered.

Example:
John Smith
456 Elm Street
Hometown, TX 75000

Choosing the Right Tone for Your Letter

Choosing the right tone for your informal letter can make a world of difference in how the recipient feels when reading it. Informal letters, unlike formal ones, have a relaxed and conversational vibe. You should aim to write as if you are having a friendly chat with the recipient.

Striking the right tone in your correspondence is crucial. For example, maintaining professionalism and empathy is key when learning how to write an apology letter effectively.

Key Tips for Setting the Right Tone:

1. Know Your Audience: Consider who you are writing to—a close friend, a relative, or even your mother. This helps you decide whether to be playful, thoughtful, or warm.
2. Use a Friendly Voice: The voice (grammar) of your letter should be casual. You can use contractions like “I’m,” “can’t,” or “didn’t,” which are common in everyday conversations.
3. Include Colloquial Expressions: Don’t be afraid to use phrases you’d say out loud, like “Guess what?” or “You won’t believe this!” This makes your letter feel authentic.
4. Personalize the Letter: Mentioning shared memories or inside jokes is a great way to make your letter feel special. For example, “Remember when we got lost on that hike? Still can’t believe we found our way back!”
5. Maintain a Consistent Tone: If you start with a cheerful and upbeat tone, keep it that way throughout the letter.

Tips on Writing an Engaging Informal Letter

Writing an informal letter should be fun and engaging. Here are practical tips to keep your recipient interested from the first line to the last.

1. Start with an Interesting Opening- People usually appreciate letters that start with something intriguing or light-hearted.

Examples:

• “One afternoon, I felt stuck thinking about our last conversation, so I decided to write to you.”
• “I spent 10 minutes laughing today about that story you told me—had to write and share my thoughts!”

2. Use a Conversational Tone- Write as if you are talking directly to the recipient. Feel free to use informal writing techniques, such as contractions and first-person pronouns.

3. Organize Your Thoughts- Divide your letter into short paragraphs to make it easier to read. Each paragraph can focus on a different topic, like updates about your life, questions for the recipient, or plans for the future.

4. Include Personal Stories and Details- Sharing little anecdotes makes your letter memorable.

Example: “I told my friends about the time you convinced me to try sushi—their reactions were priceless!”

5. End with a Thoughtful Closing- Give your letter a nice wrap-up by expressing hopes for future communication.

Example: “I hope this letter finds you in great spirits. Write back when you have the time.”

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though informal letters are relaxed, there are still some common mistakes that can take away from their effectiveness.

1. Ignoring the Purpose of the Letter- Every letter is written for a reason. If you jump from topic to topic without focus, the letter may feel scattered. Decide to add a central reason for writing before you start.

2. Forgetting to Write the Date- Always write the date on the top left-hand side of the letter. It helps the recipient know when the letter was written.

3. Being Too Formal- Informal letters are characterized by the use of casual language. Avoid phrases like “To Whom It May Concern” or overly stiff expressions. Even though informal letters are relaxed, being too formal can undermine their charm. However, when drafting formal communications such as raising concerns professionally, it’s helpful to know how to write a complaint letter effectively.

4. Overusing Slang or Abbreviations- While informal letters allow for some colloquial expressions, don’t overdo it. Keep the language understandable.

5. Skipping a Proper Closing- End your letter with a friendly closing phrase and your name.

Examples:

• Yours,
• Take care,
• Cheers,

6. Forgetting the Recipient’s Address on the Envelope- Make sure you address the front of the envelope properly, with the recipient’s full name and address on the left of the front. This ensures your letter finds its way to the right person.

7. Writing Long, Confusing Sentences- Avoid long, complex sentence clause structures. Keep your sentences simple and clear.

8. Neglecting Personal Touches- An informal letter should feel personal. Use words that show genuine care and interest in the recipient’s life.

Sample Informal Letter to Get You Started

Sample 1: Letter to a Friend

12th January 2025
78 Willow Street
Lakeview Heights, CA 94560

Dear Emma,

Hey! I hope everything is going great on your end. It’s been way too long since we last caught up, and I just had to write and see how you’re doing.

Guess what? I finally adopted a dog—a golden retriever named Max! He’s such a ball of energy. You’d love him; he’s already chewed through my favorite pair of sneakers, but I can’t even be mad at him.

How are things in Seattle? Still raining all the time, or have you seen a bit of sunshine lately? How’s your new job going? I remember you told me that your office overlooks the waterfront—it must be a great view!

We should plan a weekend trip soon—maybe down here to Lakeview Heights. The weather’s been beautiful lately, and there are plenty of trails we could explore with Max.

Write back soon and let me know all your updates. I can’t wait to hear from you.

Take care and give my love to everyone,
Yours,
Sophie

Sample 2: Letter to a Sibling Studying Abroad

5th March 2025
45 Oakwood Avenue
Brighton, England BN2 3EH

Dear Liam,

Hey there, big bro! I hope this letter finds you well and thriving in your studies at the University of Amsterdam.

Things here at home are pretty much the same. Mum and Dad are busy with work, and Bella’s gotten into gardening—can you believe it? She’s turned the backyard into a mini jungle. I’ll send you pictures next time.

How’s life in Amsterdam? Have you gotten used to biking everywhere yet? I heard they have amazing cheese markets there. Make sure to try some, and let me know your favorite.

By the way, Brighton isn’t the same without you. Remember our Sunday walks by the pier? I went last weekend, and it felt strange without you around.

Mum asked me to remind you to write back when you have time—she misses hearing from you. So do I, to be honest. Don’t keep us waiting too long!

Take care of yourself and enjoy every moment of your studies. Looking forward to hearing all about your adventures.

Lots of love,
Your little sis,
Olivia

Final Thoughts on How to Write an Informal Letter

Writing informal letters allows you to connect on a personal level without the rigid rules of standard English or the formal structure seen in business letters. The key is to maintain a friendly tone and organize your thoughts in a way that feels natural. Whether you use pen and paper or a keyboard, remember that your voice (grammar) and syntax matter less than the sincerity behind your words. Like many people who rediscovered letter writing a decade ago, you might be surprised by the results when you decide to add this simple yet meaningful communication back into your life. So, write effective and heartfelt messages—your recipient will appreciate every word.

How To Write An Informal Letter FAQs