Letter Writing Format for Class 12 with Solved Samples
| Type of Letter | When to Use | Brief Example |
|---|---|---|
| Formal Letter | Exams, job applications, official requests | Application for leave, complaint to municipal office |
| Informal Letter | Personal communication | Letter to a friend about holidays |
| Letter to the Editor | Suggesting solutions, raising public issues | Letter on traffic problems in your locality |
| Business/Official Letter | Placing orders, making inquiries | Order of books for school library |
Why Letter Writing for Class 12 Matters
Letter writing is frequently tested in school board exams and also builds real-world skills like clear communication, formal requests, and complaint registration. Mastery of letter writing format, content, and tone directly affects scores and confidence in English exams.
Types of Letters in Class 12 English
For CBSE, ICSE and most State boards, the main letter writing categories are formal, informal, and letter to the editor. Each type has its own tone and structure. Business, job application, and order letters are treated as formal letters in Class 12.
- Formal Letter: For official communication, complaints, applications
- Informal Letter: To friends, relatives — use a casual tone
- Letter to Editor: For public awareness or community issues
- Business/Official Letter: For orders, inquiry, complaints to companies
Letter Writing Format for Class 12 (2024 CBSE & Boards)
Follow this structure for all formal and official letters to score full marks:
- Sender’s Address
- Date (e.g., 15 March 2024)
- Receiver’s Address
- Subject (Purpose of letter in one line)
- Salutation (e.g., Sir/Madam, Dear Editor)
- Body (3 paragraphs: introduction, main content, request/action/closing)
- Formal Closing (e.g., Yours sincerely, Yours truly)
- Sender’s Name and signature
| Part | Details/Example |
|---|---|
| Sender’s Address | 47 Green Avenue, Mumbai |
| Date | 12 April 2024 |
| Receiver’s Address | The Principal Oxford Public School Mumbai |
| Subject | Request for Bonafide Certificate |
| Salutation | Sir/Madam |
| Body | State reason, details, request |
| Closing | Yours sincerely, (Name) |
Key Guidelines: How to Write Letters in Class 12
- Follow the full block format — left alignment only, no indentation.
- Don’t use casual words or contractions in formal letters.
- KISS: Keep it short and simple; be to the point.
- Start directly with your intention in the first paragraph.
- Add details like account/order/reference numbers where needed.
- Always check the latest CBSE/Board guidelines.
Letter Writing Topics for Class 12 with Examples
Practising sample topics will help clarify the format further. Here are some common exam-style topics with sample openings:
- Complaint about poor bus service (Letter to Editor)
Opening: “Through the columns of your newspaper, I wish to highlight the issue of poor bus service in our area...” - Request for school fee concession (Application to Principal)
Opening: “I wish to request a full fee concession due to financial hardship in my family...” - Order for notebooks (Order Letter to Supplier)
Opening: “We wish to place an order for 100 A4 ruled notebooks for our school library...” - Job Application for English Teacher
Opening: “With reference to your advertisement, I hereby apply for the post of P.G. teacher in English...”
For detailed letter samples, see Vedantu’s Formal Letter and Job Application Letter Format pages.
Common Mistakes in Letter Writing for Class 12
- Mixing old and new formats — always use the latest old block format.
- Forgetting important parts (like Subject or Date).
- Using informal tone or contractions (“I’m”, “can’t”) in formal letters.
- Punctuation in the block format (avoid except for full stops in sentences).
- Addressing the editor for solution; only state problems or requests.
Marking Scheme for Letter Writing in CBSE/Class 12
| Criteria | Marks |
|---|---|
| Format (All parts present) | 1 mark |
| Content (Relevance, details, clarity) | 2 marks |
| Expression (Language, grammar, tone) | 2 marks |
| TOTAL | 5 marks |
Exam Tips: Practice Questions for Letter Writing
- Write a letter to the municipal office about garbage in your area.
- Apply for the post of a sports coach in a school.
- Complain to the supplier about damaged books received.
- Order 20 computers for the school’s computer lab.
- Letter to editor on the need to ban single-use plastic.
For more practice and grammar support, explore Vedantu’s Letter Writing Guide.
Page Summary
Letter Writing for Class 12 is a core English skill for board and competitive exams. Knowing letter types, following the CBSE format, and practising clear, formal English helps students score high marks and communicate confidently. Vedantu provides easy examples and updated formats for every Class 12 learner’s success.
FAQs on Letter Writing for Class 12 – Format, Examples, and Guide
1. How to write a formal letter in class 12?
Formal letter writing for Class 12 follows a specific format. Begin with your address and the date, followed by the recipient's address. Include a clear subject line, a formal salutation (e.g., 'Dear Sir/Madam'), a polite and concise body with three paragraphs (introduction, body, conclusion), a formal closing (e.g., 'Yours sincerely'), and your signature. Remember to use formal language and avoid contractions.
2. Which is the best topic for a letter?
The 'best' letter writing topic for Class 12 depends on the type of letter (formal or informal) and the exam's requirements. For formal letters, consider topics like applying for a job, making a complaint, or writing to the editor. For informal letters, choose topics related to personal experiences, events, or sharing news. Focus on clarity, conciseness, and adherence to the correct format for full marks. The latest CBSE guidelines will further help in selecting appropriate topics.
3. How many types of letters are there in class 10?
While this question pertains to Class 10, the types of letters are similar to Class 12. Common types include formal and informal letters. Formal letters often include letters to the editor, job applications, or complaint letters. Informal letters focus on personal correspondence. The number of 'types' isn't fixed; the focus is on mastering the format and tone for each.
4. What is letter to editor for CBSE Class 12?
A letter to the editor is a formal letter written to express opinions or concerns on a particular issue to a newspaper or magazine. For CBSE Class 12, it tests your ability to write persuasively and formally. The letter writing format should be strictly adhered to. Use polite language, provide valid arguments, and conclude with a clear call to action. Keywords such as 'formal letter format', 'letter to editor example', and 'CBSE guidelines' are important to consider.
5. What is the latest letter format for CBSE 2024?
The latest letter format for CBSE 2024 emphasizes clarity and conciseness. It typically includes the sender's address, date, recipient's address, subject line, salutation, body, complimentary close, and signature. The modern format generally avoids indentation and uses a block format for all parts. Consult CBSE guidelines for the most current specifications on letter formatting.
6. What is the correct format for letter writing in Class 12 CBSE exams?
The correct format for letter writing in Class 12 CBSE exams is crucial. Your letter should include: sender's address, date, recipient's address, subject, salutation, body paragraphs, complimentary close, and signature. Ensure you follow a consistent block format for optimal presentation. Refer to the latest CBSE guidelines for the most updated format. The format alone can be worth 1-2 marks.
7. What are the main types of letters asked in Class 12 English?
Common letter types in Class 12 English exams include formal and informal letters. Formal letters might involve writing to an editor, applying for a job, or making a complaint. Informal letters are for personal correspondence. Understanding the nuances of each type is crucial for success. Be prepared to adapt your writing style and language appropriately.
8. How many paragraphs should a formal letter have?
A formal letter typically has three paragraphs: an introduction stating the purpose, a body detailing the information, and a conclusion summarizing the request or main point. While there isn't a strict rule, sticking to this structure ensures clarity and conciseness, essential for achieving high marks in Class 12 exams.
9. How is letter writing marked in the board exam?
Letter writing in board exams is typically marked based on several criteria: format (adherence to correct structure), content (relevance, clarity, and development of ideas), and language (grammar, vocabulary, and tone). Marks are often allocated to each section, so paying attention to all three elements is vital. Check your CBSE marking scheme for specifics.
10. Can I use contractions or informal language in a formal letter for Class 12?
No, avoid contractions and informal language in a formal letter for Class 12. Maintain a formal tone using polite and respectful language to impress the examiner. Using appropriate language and tone is key to high scores in letter writing.
