Formal Letter

Layout

Use this order. In an exam, invent plausible details for names and addresses, unless the instructions say otherwise. The right-aligned date is traditional.

Salutations

Don't add a surname, and keep Cher for people you know. The same title returns in the closing formula.

Opening: state your purpose

The first sentence should show why you are writing. Don't begin with I hope you're well.

Body phrases

Keep it factual. Paragraph one: the facts. Paragraph two: the consequences and arguments. Paragraph three: what you want.

Closing: two steps

End with a linking sentence, then a closing formula. Repeat the exact title from your salutation.

Model: complaint

An original model of a short complaint at about B2 level, in a real-life setup.

• Objet : réclamation concernant une panne de chauffageSubject: complaint about a heating breakdown
• Madame la Directrice,Dear Director,
• Je me permets de vous écrire au sujet du chauffage de mon appartement, en panne depuis le 3 janvier.I am writing about the heating in my flat, which has been out of order since 3 January.
• Malgré mes trois appels, aucun technicien n'est venu, alors que la température ne dépasse pas quinze degrés.Despite my three calls, no technician has come, while the temperature is no higher than fifteen degrees.
• Par conséquent, je vous saurais gré de bien vouloir faire réparer l'installation avant le 15 janvier.I would therefore be grateful if you would have the system repaired before 15 January.
• À défaut, je me verrai contraint de saisir l'association de locataires.Failing that, I will be forced to contact the tenants' association.
• Dans l'attente de votre réponse, je vous prie d'agréer, Madame la Directrice, l'expression de mes salutations distinguées.I look forward to hearing from you. Yours faithfully.

Formal emails

Shorter and less ceremonial, but the logic is the same: subject, greeting, purpose, request, polite close.

Mistakes that lose marks

Check these.