Writing a letter

Not sure how to write a letter? This checklist will help!

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Every few years, I pull out the old box from my basement, shake off the dust, and settle in with a drink to re-read old letters. I revisit my penpals, my friends, my boyfriends, my family, and even acquaintances. The adventure takes me down memory lane and into the days of my past. I laugh. I cry. And I remember.

These days, I pull out my phone and review the texts sent, but those texts (and emails) don’t have the same sentiment as those old, hand-written letters.

Letters require more effort to send than a text or an email (even for those of us who over analyze everything we write). But they’re so much more personal. Think about when you receive something handwritten in the mail. You get excited to open it. It’s like you’re opening the card from your grandparents all over again. It’s so personal, that the recipient will often hold on to those letters throughout their lifetime. Think about movies and songs you’ve heard where someone writes someone else a letter that is referenced or found. It helps us know a little more about the person we loved.

Consider handwriting a personal letter for the holidays, to thank someone, or to spice up your long-distance conversations. Not sure how to format your letter and what to include? I’ve got you covered! Read below for all you need to write a letter.

Greeting

Your greeting in a letter can (and should) be personal. Consider how you’re addressing the person as the lasting impression you’ll leave with them. You can welcome the person by saying hello, or you can get creative. I had a friend who used to refer to me by my Spanish name. My BFF called me by a few different names. Whatever your greeting, it’s your first impression and your first chance to engage your reader. I also suggest adding the date on the opposite side of your greeting.

Introduction

Now, spend some time explaining why you’re writing a letter to this person. Be as direct as you want to be, but be sure you are clear in introducing the reason behind your letter.

Body

Fill in the details. Letters can be lengthy, so keep your audience and purpose in mind. Smaller chunks are usually better. And make sure your letter doesn’t resemble Rachel’s letter to Ross: “18 pages front AND back!”

Conclusion

Your conclusion is your last impression. Consider what you want to leave your reader with. Do you want them to do something? Do you want them to have clarity on an issue/topic? End your letter with a call to action. Also add whether or not you anticipate hearing back from them and how they can respond.

Sign-off

Finally, include a sign-off (Sincerely, Regards, Cheers) and share your name. Chances are you have shared that information with them somewhere, but be sure they know who you are by the end of your letter.

Warnings

Make sure your handwriting is legible, and that you have included everything you need in your letter. You’re likely going to send the letter to someone’s address, so be sure to fill in their name and address as well as include a return address.

Looking at all the components, writing a letter can seem like a lot of work. As a former letter-writing pro, I can tell you it gets easier. Leave your recipient impressed at your mastery of the lost art of letter writing.

Categories: writing