How to Write in Formal and Informal Voice

The style and voice in which anything is written matters a lot in every aspect of text analysis. The audience, content, and purpose of writing determine the style and voice of writing to be adopted by the writer. Based on these elements, a text can be written either in informal or formal voice.

The format of the text, choice of words, and the tone vary greatly between both the styles and writers need to have an understanding of both these voices. Formal and informal voice is discussed in detail below:

Formal Voice

The word 'formal' itself means something done under defined etiquettes, manners, and rules. Same is the case with writing in a formal voice. Formal voice is used in academic writing, business letters, cover letters, and other content written for professional purposes. All such content should be written according to a specific format and with an appropriate choice of words. While writing using formal voice, certain points must be acknowledged. In formal writing, it is important to use a sophisticated tone, formal vocabulary, proper spellings, and punctuation. It is better to write using second and third-person pronouns while writing formally to maintain a formal distance with the reader.

Informal Voice

Using Informal voice gives a relaxed, friendly, and unofficial style to the text. Any content written for friends, family or others you do not have professional relations with is written in an informal voice. Informal writing includes condolence letters, congratulatory letters, and other such texts. In informal voice, grammar, format, and rules are not given much importance to as that under formal voice. A text in informal voice is direct, clear, and uses fewer words as compared to a text written formally. In formal writing, one can use slangs, abbreviations, first-person pronouns, and other elements that are prohibited for use in formal style. To achieve an informal tone; one should use short sentences, contractions, and show empathy and emotions where necessary.

How to Write Formal Letters

Formal letters are written for professional purposes and with a specific idea in mind. Formal letters include business letters, cover letters, and some other letters written to someone you have professional relations with. Since the word ‘formal' means something done by etiquettes, manners, and rules; formal letters must also be written according to some set rules and in a specific format, the language used should also be understandable, and the length of the letter should be brief. Writing a formal letter is different and a little challenging than writing an informal letter.

Given below is the format according to which a formal letter can be written:

Address

Always begin a formal letter by writing the sender's address on the top left corner of the page followed by the receiver's address on the top right corner. In both cases, include the name of sender or receiver, valid address, and telephone number.

Date and Salutation

It is preferred to write date leaving a line gap below the sender's address. However, it can also be written below the receiver's address. Salutation is another important component of a formal letter. Make sure to choose an appropriate salutation. If the writer omits salutation, a letter will seem rude and improper.

Subject Line

In the case of formal letters, writing the subject is a must. The subject must be appropriate, brief, and reflective of the purpose of the letter. It should be interesting and should capture the reader's attention because the readers decide to read a letter based on its subject line. Remember to leave a one-line gap before and after the subject line.

Body

The most important part of any letter is its body, it should be brief and to the point. Professional writers divide the body into three paragraphs. First one introduces the reader with the purpose of writing, the second paragraph explains the purpose, and the last one indicates the action to be taken.

Signing Off

It is important to sign off the letter the way you start the letter. Choose appropriate signing off words followed by the writer's name and signature.