Parts of a Letter

A personal letter… Is casual. Is used to write to friends and family. Uses a friendly complimentary closing. Uses a comma in the salutation (,)

Salutation Complimentary Closing Body Hi, Harry, It’s almost time to go back to school at Hogwarts. It’s okay that you missed Voldemort with your magic wand and hit me in the eye. Things were very crazy and it was an accident. Of course, it means that I probably can’t join you on the Quiddich team this year, but I wasn’t a good player, anyway. I did enjoy fighting the evil wizards with you and am looking forward to seeing you (with my one good eye!) soon. Your friend, Teacher Brian Salutation Complimentary Closing Body

A business letter… Is formal. Is used to write to businesses and coworkers. Uses a polite complimentary closing. Uses a colon in the salutation (:)

Salutation Complimentary Closing Body Dear Mr. McDonald: Yesterday, I went to one of your restaurants for lunch. I ordered a 9 piece chicken McNuggets and medium Sprite. When I opened the box of nuggets and took my first bite, I was shocked to find a feather. Yes, there was a chicken feather in the middle of my McNugget! When I told the restaurant manager, he laughed and made chicken noises at me! I expect you to give me an apology and a refund of my money. Sincerely, Brian Q. Webb Salutation Complimentary Closing Body