Letter Writing Tips for Bank Mains Exams

Letter writing is a form of communication that has retained its charm and unique appeal even in today’s digital era. Formal letters continue to play a crucial role in areas like job applications, official correspondence, and institutional communication such as bank notices or college acceptance letters.

The letter writing task is an integral component of the Descriptive Writing section of IBPS and SBI PO Mains exams. The expected word limit is about 150 words. Candidates may be required to write a formal or informal letter on a given topic. Since the total time allotted for both the tasks (Letter Writing and Essay Writing) is 30 minutes, you should aim to complete the letter in about 15 minutes.

Letter-writing Basics

The two broad types of letters are formal and informal letters. While formal letters have a prescribed format that you need to adhere to, informal letters, as the name suggests, can be written in a more casual style and tone.

Formal Letters

Formal letters are used for official purposes and are addressed to authorities, dignitaries, colleagues, seniors, or other professional contacts. The generally accepted format for formal letters is as follows:

• Start with the sender’s address at the top left-hand corner. Frame the address based on the sender's profile, as mentioned in the topic.

• Write the date below the sender’s address. In an actual letter, the date is essential for official records. So, do not skip this step.

• Leave a blank space after the date, and then write the receiver’s position or full name (as applicable).

• Address the recipient with an appropriate salutation such as “Sir/Madam”, “Dear Ms. XYZ” etc.

• Include a crisp and clear subject line, which will help the recipient understand why you are writing the letter.

• Write the body of the letter in two or three paragraphs. The first paragraph should clearly state the issue, problem or purpose of the letter. The next paragraph may include more details. If required, write a concluding paragraph that conveys your suggestion, call for action, or request. You may include a final line such as ‘I look forward to hearing from you” or “I request you to look into this matter at the earliest” .

• End with a formal sign-off followed by your signature and full name.

Informal Letters

Informal letters are written to close acquaintances such as friends, family, and relatives. These letters have a casual tone and allow for greater emotional expression. Unlike formal letters, informal letters are not bound by strict formats, but they generally follow some conventions:

• Start with the sender’s address at the top left-hand corner.

• Write the date below the sender’s address.

• Use informal salutations such as “Dear Dad” or “ My dear Rita”.

• You may skip the recipient’s address and the subject line. Begin the body of the letter with casual and warm inquiries or expressions of hope about the recipient's health and well-being. In the next paragraph, convey the purpose of the letter. Use a conversational throughout the letter. Conclude on an affectionate note, and use a personal sign-off such as “Yours” or “Lots of love”.

Some Common Letter-writing Topics

1. Write a letter to the Bank Manager requesting him to reissue your ATM Card.

2. Write a letter to the Branch Manager requesting him to add your son’s name as a second nominee for your savings account.

3. Write a letter to the Client of your bank who got a car loan sanctioned from the bank 2 years ago, and has sold the car now without redeeming the loan amount.

4. Write a letter to the Branch Manager for availing of the Overdraft Facility, which you had stopped earlier.

5. Write a complaint letter to the bank manager about the negligence and irresponsibility of the employees.

6. You try to withdraw money from the ATM but the ATM turns out to be malfunctioning. You could not withdraw the money but the amount was deducted from the account. Write a letter to the bank manager seeking a refund of the wrongly deducted amount.

7. Write a letter to a Bank Manager requesting him to open a branch in your neighbourhood.

8. Write a letter to the Editor about your views on the ever-increasing crime against women.

9. Write a letter to a friend explaining the importance of opening a Public Provident Fund account.

10. Write a letter to your mother, narrating your experiences in your first job.

Remember:

• Use professional language in formal letters. In informal letters, the style can be more casual. However, avoid using ‘text message abbreviations’ and slangs.

• Ensure proper structure and flow of ideas.

• Include all the relevant points. Use examples or data wherever required.

• Practise your grammar and vocabulary, and try to avoid spelling errors.

• Avoid using complex words and sentence structures, and adopt a lucid style.

• Ensure that you organize your thoughts before writing, so that you can complete the letter within the allotted time.