How do I start writing letters?

If you’ve never written a letter before (or it’s been a while since you last did), the whole idea can feel intimidating. Do you write like you talk? Should it be formal or personal? And what on earth do you say if you’re not exactly a wordsmith?

At LetterLab, we help people write letters that matter, whether it’s reconnecting with a family member, writing to a judge, or sending a heartfelt thank-you. So if you’re starting from scratch, you’re in the right place. Here’s a simple, friendly guide to help you begin.

Why write letters at all?

In a world of WhatsApp messages and fleeting texts, letters stand out. They’re:

• Personal and tangible

• More thoughtful and sincere

• Often kept as keepsakes

  
  

Whether it’s a birthday, a legal situation, or a life-changing apology, putting pen to paper gives your words weight.

Need help writing your first letter? LetterLab can do it for you, beautifully and professionally.

Step 1: Get your purpose clear

Before you start writing, ask yourself:

• Why am I writing?

• What outcome do I hope for?

• Who exactly am I writing to?

Being clear on your intent will shape the tone, structure and language you use.

Step 2: Choose the right type of letter

There are different types of letters, and each has its own style. You might be writing:

• A personal letter (to a friend or family member)

• A formal letter (to a business, judge, or employer)

• A persuasive letter (to request something or make a case)

The Plain English Campaign has useful guides on clarity and tone.

Step 3: Structure your letter simply

Here’s a basic format to follow:

• Opening: Begin with a greeting (Dear [Name])

• First paragraph: Say why you’re writing

• Middle paragraphs: Give any background or detail

• Final paragraph: State what you want or hope for

• Sign off: Use a suitable closing (Sincerely, With love, Yours faithfully)

If in doubt, BBC Bitesize offers great examples for formal letters.

Step 4: Use your own voice, then tidy it up

The best letters sound like you. Don’t try to be someone else. Get your thoughts out as they come, then:

• Read it aloud (you’ll spot awkward bits)

• Cut repetition or waffle

• Check spelling and names

Remember, your first draft doesn’t need to be perfect. You can always tweak it.

Step 5: Make it personal

Even formal letters benefit from a human touch. A kind tone, a handwritten note, or a thoughtful phrase can go a long way.

We once helped a nervous grandfather write a letter to his new grandchild. He hadn’t written anything since school. His daughter said it was the most touching thing she’d ever read, and he told us it was the first time he’d felt truly heard in years.

Bonus tips

• Use plain A4 paper (unless it’s for a special occasion)

• If posting, double check the address

• If emailing, add a clear subject line

• For international letters, check Royal Mail’s guidelines

A note on history (and inspiration)

Letter writing isn’t new, it’s deeply rooted in culture. From love letters to war-time messages, letters have always connected people. The British Library offers a fascinating look at letters through the ages.

Still stuck? Let LetterLab write it for you

If you’re struggling to find the right words, or afraid of saying the wrong thing, we’ll write your letter for you. All we need is a bit of info from you (our form takes 2 minutes) and we’ll turn it into something powerful, respectful and ready to send.

And because our prices are currently lower than the industry standard, it’s a smart time to get your letter professionally written. (Prices may rise soon to reflect rising demand.)

Ready to get started?

We’ll take care of your words like they’re our own.

Visit LetterLab or get in touch, your letter could change everything.