How to Write a Letter

A letter is a written message sent from one person to another. People have been writing letters for thousands of years. Letters can be friendly notes to family or formal messages to important people. Learning to write a good letter is a useful skill.

Parts of a Letter

A friendly letter has five parts. The date goes at the top. The greeting says hello, like Dear Mom. The body is the main message. The closing says goodbye, like Love or Sincerely. The signature is where you write your name.

Friendly vs. Formal Letters

A friendly letter is written to someone you know. You can use casual language and share personal news. A formal letter is written to someone you may not know, like a business or a leader. Formal letters use polite language and get straight to the point.

Fun Facts

• The oldest known letter was written on a clay tablet over 4,000 years ago.
• During wars, soldiers and their families kept in touch by writing letters.
• Some famous people's letters have been collected and published as books.

Did You Know?

Before envelopes were invented, people folded their letters and sealed them with melted wax.