Texting is a very common method of communication between friends nowadays, but writing a letter is an effective and traditional way to bring a smile to a person's face. Whether you write a letter using e-mail or send it with a postage stamp, the form is the same: a friendly letter should include a salutation, questions about your friend, news about his life, and an appropriate closure.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Begin the letter
Step 1. Put the date
If you are writing it by hand, it is customary to put the date on the top left. Many keep the letters over time and love to be able to see what day and year they were written, to remind us of times gone by. Write the date in full - for example "May 7, 2013" - or abbreviate it using just numbers to indicate day, month and year.
Step 2. Write the salutation
The opening of the letter, whether written by hand or electronically, is called a greeting. The person you are writing to is addressed by name, for example "Dear Emily" or "Hello, John". Think about the type of relationship you have with your correspondent, as well as your style and preferences, to choose the most appropriate greeting.
- Even the choice of a slightly more formal style, which uses the "dear" in the greetings is pleasant. It may sound classic, but think about it: calling someone "dear" is actually very sweet and indicates that you care about that person. However, it must not hide a double purpose; "dear" is just as perfect for a letter to a best friend as it is to someone you have just met.
- For a more relaxed letter, you can opt for "Hello, [name]" or "Hello, [name]". This way of greeting is suitable for a friend or relative, never for a business letter because it would be too informal.
- Formulate a more personal greeting for someone you are more intimate with or would like to be. For example, "Dearest [name]," "My [name]" or "Sweet [name]".
- Make sure you put the comma after the greeting. The correct formula also expects to start the body of the letter from the following line.
Method 2 of 3: Compose the Text
Step 1. Start with something nice
The first paragraph of a friendly letter is usually light and pleasant. It sets the tone of the letter, giving the recipient the idea that what follows will be friendlier than serious or professional. Use the first few lines to broaden your greeting, joke or talk about the weather.
- "How are you doing?" or "How are you?" are common ways to start a letter. Asking questions turns the letter into a kind of long conversation. If you want to get an answer, you can post questions from time to time.
- You can use the first paragraph to ask about your correspondent's life. For example, "I hope little Giulia likes kindergarten. I can't believe she's that big already!".
- Another common opening is the time of year. Think about what you would say before launching into a long conversation. For example: "I hope autumn is so beautiful for you too. The trees here have never been so colorful. But I think next winter will be cold."
Step 2. Share news and personal details
At this point you can get to the heart of the letter, the purpose for which you are writing it. Why did you initiate this correspondence? Do you want to recover the relationship with a friend you haven't heard in a long time, tell someone you miss them or thank them for helping you? Be direct, open and eloquent.
- Tell what is happening to you. No matter what you say, your letter will likely be appreciated and your correspondent will feel closer to you (so the letter will have more effect) if it contains personal details. Tell what emotions you felt and what plans you have for the future.
- Don't stereotype your family - it would distort the purpose of the letter. Avoid newsletter-style updates; your friend will immediately start skipping steps to get to the bottom of the list. You don't have to go into every issue, but try to make a realistic portrait of your life.
Step 3. Talk about topics that are relevant to this person
What was happening to him the last time you spoke? Was he about to leave his partner? Was he in the middle of a difficult football season? Add references and ask questions to show your interest.
- You can also discuss news that interests both of you. Art, politics and current affairs are examples of topics.
- Also mention movies you've recently seen that your friend might like, or books you've read and would recommend. Sharing good information is always good in letters.
Method 3 of 3: Close the Letter
Step 1. Recap
Write a final paragraph with your best wishes. Usually, it should be lighter in tone than the body of the letter but still not deviate from the general body. Try to end the letter with a note that will leave your friend feeling positive.
- Re-emphasize the purpose of the letter. For example, if you invited him to a party, write "I hope you get to come!". If you just want to wish him something, write "Have a merry Christmas!" etc.
- Encourage him to answer you. In this case, write "I hope to hear from you soon" or "Answer me, please!".
Step 2. Write the closure
You should choose one that respects the tone of the whole letter, whether it is traditional or more relaxed. Like the greeting, closing should also be determined by your relationship with the correspondent. Finish with your signature.
- For a formal closing, use the following formulas: "Sincerely", "Affectionately" or "Sincere Greetings".
- If your letter has a more relaxed tone, try "Yours", "Please" or "Greetings."
- For a more intimate ending, choose "Kisses", "Kisses" or "I always think of you".
Step 3. Consider putting a postscript
A PS is usually included at the end of a friendly letter to add information not so important that it deserves a paragraph in the body of the text. You could even write a joke or omit it altogether. Be that as it may, always respect the tone of the letter and think about the reaction you want to elicit from the recipient.
