English · Class 10
Formal Letter Writing
Learn Formal Letter Writing with notes, examples, and practice questions.
3 sections15–25 min read6 MCQs · 2 examples
Chapter Overview
Formal letters follow a fixed CBSE format for enquiries, complaints, orders, and requests. Layout includes sender's address, date, receiver's designation and address, subject, salutation, body paragraphs, complimentary close, and signature.
Format (Block Style)
- Sender's address (top left, no name before exam)
- Date below address
- Receiver's designation & full address
- Subject: one line, underlined or bold
- Salutation: Sir/Madam or Dear Sir
- Body: intro, details, polite request/complaint
- Yours faithfully (if Dear Sir) / Yours sincerely (if name used)
- Signature & printed name
Types
- Letter of enquiry: product, course, job information
- Letter of complaint: defective goods, poor service
- Letter of order: placing purchase order with specs
- Letter to editor: public issue (formal tone)
Solved Examples
Step-by-step solutions — read each step before checking the final answer.
Complaint letter opening
Write subject line for a letter about a defective mixer.
- 1Be specific and concise
Answer
Subject: Complaint regarding defective mixer grinder — Order No. 4521
Closing
You began 'Dear Sir'. Which closing is correct?
- 1Unknown name → Yours faithfully
Answer
Yours faithfully
Key Points to Remember
- ✓ Formal tone — no contractions (don't → do not)
- ✓ One subject only per letter
- ✓ Paragraphs: 3–4 for body
- ✓ Word limit typically 100–120 words in exams
Exam Tips
- • Draw margin box for format marks
- • Subject must match body content
- • Never use informal closings like 'Love'
- • Include relevant details: date of purchase, bill number
Practice MCQs — Formal Letter Writing
Test your understanding with topic-wise multiple choice questions. Explanations appear after each answer.
Question 1 of 6Score: 0/0
'Yours faithfully' is used when salutation is: