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Email Writing Exercises: Formal vs. Informal

The document provides examples of formal and informal sentences and emails. It then gives corrections and improvements for three sample emails that need editing. The corrections demonstrate how to make the language and tone of the emails more formal and professional by avoiding contractions and informal phrasing, using proper greetings and closings, and emphasizing relevant qualifications and skills for the context. Overall, the document offers guidance on writing formal emails for school, work, and other professional settings.
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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
98 views6 pages

Email Writing Exercises: Formal vs. Informal

The document provides examples of formal and informal sentences and emails. It then gives corrections and improvements for three sample emails that need editing. The corrections demonstrate how to make the language and tone of the emails more formal and professional by avoiding contractions and informal phrasing, using proper greetings and closings, and emphasizing relevant qualifications and skills for the context. Overall, the document offers guidance on writing formal emails for school, work, and other professional settings.
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Exercises:

Formal vs. Informal


State whether the sentence would be classified as either formal or informal. If informal, change it to
formal.

Example:

Hi y’all!

_informal; To Whom it May Concern:__

1.) I am pleased to inform you that you have won our grand prize.
_____________

2.) I hope all is well with your new career choice.


_____________

3.) I shouldn’t have gone and missed with it!!


_____________

4.) I can’t help you with that cuz it’s too hard.
_____________

5.) Hi, how are you?


_____________

Putting It All Together


Find and correct the errors in the following emails:

1.)

Hello Professor Smith,

I’m sorry to tell you but im sick and will not be able to come to class. See ya Wednesday.

Jason

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

2.)

Dear Sally Blue,

I read online that you’re selling business cards. I was wondering how much if i only wanted 500? Is color
and a logo extra? Can I see an example before all are shipped or will that cost extra? You seem to have a
great business so I hope you can help.

Thanks,

Jess Higgins

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

3.)

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am a graduate from menlo college. I got a degree in business and would now like to use it. Your
company looks interesting. Can I come in for an interview? I have alot of experience from my schooling
and extra cirriculers. I think I can help the company alot. Please respond to my email to let me know.

Thanks,

Max Oates

______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________
Answers:

Formal vs. Informal

1.) Formal
2.) Formal
3.) Informal; I should not have changed it.
4.) Informal; I apologize but I am unable to help you with your problem because it is extremely difficult.
5.) Informal; Dear Mr. Smith, How are you?

Putting It All Together (answers may vary)

1.)

Dear Professor Smith,

I am sorry to inform you, but I will not be able to attend class today because I am ill. Would it be possible
for you to let me know what I have missed? Thank you for your help and I will see you in class on
Wednesday.

Sincerely,

Jason Jones

This is just one of the many ways to write about this particular topic. However, make sure to use formal
language, no “see ya.” Also, eliminate all contractions. If possible, try to ask a question. For this
particular topic it is good to show your professor that you are truly sorry for missing class and want to
know what you are missing.

2.)

Dear Ms. Blue,

I was searching online for a company that makes business cards. I came across your website and am
extremely impressed. However, I do have a few questions. If I were to order only 500 instead of the
advertised 1000 business cards, how much would that cost? Furthermore, I would like my business card
to be colored and also include the logo of my company. Are those requests possible, and if so, how much
extra will they be? Due to my request for color and a logo I would like to preview the card before
receiving all 500. Is that feasible? I appreciate your assistance and look forward to hearing back from
you.

Sincerely,

Jessica Higgins

Managing Partner of First Financial Assistance

(555) 555-5555

This example was not as poorly written as number 1. However, it can still be written better. For the
salutation you do not want to use the person’s first-name unless you are friends. Attempt to use more
formal language and sentence structure. For this specific topic, praise and understanding is important.
Since this topic revolved around a person working for a specific company, they needed to expand on their
signature.
3.)

Dear Hiring Manager,

My name is Max Oates. I recently graduated in May from Menlo College with a Bachelor of
Science in Business Management and a concentration in Marketing. I was recommended to contact you
concerning job opportunities from my advisor Dr. Nancy Drew. I believe that I would be an excellent
candidate for a job.

I have taken many courses to prepare me for a job in marketing. These courses include

Principles of Marketing, Marketing Research, Strategic Marketing Management, Consumer

Behavior, and Internet Marketing. I have also recently interned at Google as an Internet Marketing
Researcher. Through my many marketing classes and internship, I have learned to be a strong team
member that values time management and communication.

I believe that I can be a valued asset to your company. My phone number and alternative email
are listed below. I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely, Max Oates


maxoates@[Link]

555-555-5555

When it comes to emailing a hiring manager for a job, there is a specific outline that you should follow.
Make sure to include your name and any experiences that relate to the job you are applying for. Also add
any special skills you may have. Remember that you are trying to promote yourself as a good candidate
for the job. You should be polite and use formal language and sentence structure. Do not forget to add
additional contact information.

References

“An Introduction to Formal Emails.” Oxford University Press. 2008. Web. 24 September 2013.

Beare, Kenneth. “How to Write a Business Email.” [Link]. Web. 24 September 2013.

“Email Writing.” Oxford University Press. 2009. Web. 24 September 2013.

Hale, Ali. “Email Etiquette.” Daily Writing Tips. Web. 24 September 2013.

“Writing Formal and Informal Emails.” BBC. 2011. Web. 24 September 2013.

Common questions

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An effective professional email should be concise, clear, and relevant. It should use formal language, structured into logical sections, and include a clear subject line. These qualities ensure the email is easy to read, understand, and prioritize, facilitating effective communication. Including contact information and a courteous closing also enhance professionalism and encourage positive responses .

Structure in formal emails aids in clarity, ensuring the message is organized logically. When making inquiries, structure helps to clearly present the question, background information, and any specific details needed for context. This enhances comprehension and the likelihood of receiving precise responses. A structured approach usually follows an introduction, main content, and a polite closing .

Common errors in formal email writing include using informal greetings such as 'Hi', using contractions or colloquial language, failing to use respectful titles such as 'Dear Professor', omitting a clear structure or asking pertinent questions, and neglecting to express a clear purpose or inquiry. It's vital to sign off formally and avoid phrases like 'See ya' which are overly casual .

To modify an informal statement such as 'Hi y’all!' into a formal statement, you can use 'To Whom it May Concern:'. This involves employing a formal greeting, removing slang or colloquial expressions, and using complete sentences without contractions. The key is to maintain a respectful and professional tone .

The salutation should say 'Dear Ms. Blue' to maintain formality, avoiding the use of first names unless it's a known and accepted practice. The body should use complete sentences, avoid contractions, and add clarification about specific requests, such as indicating a precise intention to review the business cards before the full order is finalized. It's also beneficial to expand on the signature with a full name and position title for better context and professionalism .

Formal emails require a courteous and professional tone, use of proper titles such as 'Dear Mr.' or 'Dear Ms.', avoidance of contractions, and clear, structured content that often starts with an introduction, main body, and conclusion. Informal emails, in contrast, may include casual greetings like 'Hi y’all!', use of contractions, and a conversational tone .

Formalizing tone and structure when emailing potential employers is crucial because it reflects professionalism, attention to detail, and respect for the recipient. It also demonstrates your ability to communicate effectively in a professional setting, which is essential in most job roles. A well-structured, formal email increases your chance of making a positive impression and being considered for the position .

A professional job application email should include an introduction introducing oneself, identification of the job role applied for, and an expression of interest. It should detail relevant qualifications and experiences, for instance mentioning completed courses or internships. The closing should express eagerness to discuss the application further, and include additional contact information. Using respectful language and maintaining a courteous tone is essential throughout .

To enhance clarity and professionalism, begin by clearly stating the purpose of your email, such as requesting a quote or service details. Use precise language to specify service requirements, like the quantity of business cards and preferences for design elements. Politely inquire about additional costs and preview options before finalization. Formal salutation and closing, along with a structured format, contribute to clarity and professionalism .

To ensure your requests are clear and understood, use specific, concise language to describe what you need. Clearly separate questions or points of inquiry, such as costs and specifications, and avoid ambiguity. Use a structured format to lay out your points logically, making it easier for the recipient to follow and respond accurately. Defining terms and conditions, like preview before final order, also adds clarity .

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