CBSE Class 12 English Writing Skills Worksheet

Writing Skills

1. Short Compositions

1.1 Notices

A notice is written to announce or put across some information with the purpose to notify the reader about it. The variety of topics can range from a variety of formal issues to informal events. Most common topics for notices are :

• (a) Notices issued by the school : These notices are usually about events, activities and issues related to the school. Depending on the topic of notice, the language used can be either formal or semi-formal. Notices regarding trips, picnics, etc. can be written in semi-formal language. However, those informing the students and staff about official matters, such as admission, change in school timings, etc. are always written in formal language.
• (b) Notices issued by/for the residents of a housing society/colony or members of an association : Since such notices are usually about common matters, such as various issues concerning the residents or members, they are formal and direct.
• (c) Obituary Notices : They inform the general public about the demise of a loved one and contain information about the funeral, last rites and other related ceremonies.
• (d) Notices for Sale of Items : Since the main idea is to catch the general public’s/reader’s attention, these notices must be semi-formal yet attractive.
• (e) Lost and Found Notices : These are issued informing the readers about personal belongings lost or found and requesting the finder/owner to return or collect it from or give it to the one issuing the notice. Unlike other forms of notices, which are written in third person, lost and found notices are written in first person. They are crisp and more informative. In case of seeking lost items, the issuer of the notice often offers a reward to the one who returns it.

Make Sure :

• 1. You write the notice in a box.
• 2. It is easy to understand, brief and to-the point.
• 3. To stay within the word limit.
• 4. To use short but descriptive title, which gives the basic knowledge about the notice.
• 5. The body of the notice must answer the essential questions– what, when, where, who and how.

The notice must have (the format)

• 1. A box
• 2. Name of the organisation, institution or association issuing the notice.
• 3. Date on which the notice is being issued. It is advisable to use the date of examination, if a date is not already provided.
• 4. A short and strong title
• 5. Body of the notice
• 6. Name and designation of the one issuing the notice.

Question. Sample Notice : Draft a notice informing students of class VI-XII about a poster-making competition in 50 words. Invent all necessary details. You are Aarushi, President, Art Club, Navyug Public School.
Answer:
Navyug Public School
NOTICE
July 16, 20\( \times \times \)
Poster Making Competition
Art Club is organising a Poster Making Competition on July 21, 20\( \times \times \) for the students of class VI-XII.
Topic : Save the Girl Child
Venue : Amphitheatre
Time : 11:00 AM - 1:30 PM
Bring your own material. Sheets will be provided.
Aarushi Mittal (President, Art Club)

1.2 Advertisement

An advertisement is a notice or an announcement in a public medium, promoting a product, service or event or publicising a job vacancy. There are two means of communication through which the public can read or see the advertisements.

• Print Media
  • Newspapers and magazines
  • Tabloids and periodicals
  • Bulletins, etc.
• Electronic Media
  • Radio
  • T.V.
  • Movies, etc.

Why Advertisements are Important?

Depending on the type of an advertisement, it helps find or approach potential customers or consumers or a specific audience or reader, especially when it is regarding a job or for matrimonial purpose.

Type of Advertisements :

There are mainly two types of advertisements.
(a) Classified advertisements
(b) Display or commercial advertisements

Classified Advertisement

Classified ads are called so because depending on the subject, advertisements are arranged in groups, under different categories. They are placed by people or small companies who want to buy or sell something, find or offer a job, etc. They are written in short phrases or words in simple and concise language. These ads are more economical because they require less space.

Classified Advertisement Categories :

• (a) Situation Vacant/Wanted
• (b) Sale and purchase (of)
  • (i) Property
  • (ii) Vehicle
  • (iii) Household goods, etc.
• (c) To-Let
• (d) Missing person or pet
• (e) Lost and Found
• (f) Tours and Travels
• (g) Matrimonial Alliance
• (h) Obituary
• (i) Appeal
• (j) Educational
• (k) Change of name/Address/Other Information

A. SITUATION VACANT/WANTED

The purpose of these ads is to announce that an employment opportunity is either available or required at the earliest. The language used must be formal, crisp yet detailed so that the potential employer or employee is well informed about the situation before either party is approached. Begin with ‘Wanted’ or ‘Required’ when drafting an ad for Situation Vacant.

The ad must have :

• Name of the company (in case of situation vacant, if provided in the question)
• Specify the post and if information is available, the number of vacancies
• Qualification and experience of the candidate
• Age and gender of the candidate
• Pay scale and perks (optional/if provided)
• Qualities and skills of the candidate
• Other preferences
• Mode and last date of applying (in case of situation vacant)
• Contact details

Question. Sample : Situation Vacant
Answer:
Situation Vacant
Wanted a smart, confident PA/Stenographer for a leading export house. Qualification graduate, age 25-30 years, typing speed 40 w.p.m. Preference to those with the knowledge of computer. Salary negotiable. Apply with updated bio-data by 15-12-\( \times \times \times \times \) to Secretary, Orient Export House, M.H. Nagar, Chennai - 670001

B. SALE AND PURCHASE OF PROPERTY/ VEHICLE/HOUSEHOLD GOODS

If and when one wishes to sell or purchase property, vehicle or household goods, one can draft or find the ad under this category. The ad can be semi detailed with only important information provided to the reader. Begin with ‘For Sale’, ‘For Purchase’, ‘Available’ or ‘Wanted’.

The ad must have :

For property

• Type of building/property (plot/ residential/commercial/industrial)
• Brief physical description
• Fittings and fixtures
• Location and surroundings
• Facilities - power connection, parking, proximity to business/shopping areas
• Area in square metres/yards
• Price expected/negotiable
• Name of the development authority (optional)
• Whom and when to contact
• Contact details

For Vehicle

• Type/Make: Maruti/ Tata, etc.
• Model/Colour/Year of manufacturing
• Features/Accessories fitted
• Mileage and condition
• Ownership details
• Kilometres run/done
• Insurance details
• Price expected
• Contact details

For Household Goods

• Name/Type of item.
• Product brand, model, year of manufacture
• Product features and condition
• Duration used/when purchased
• Price expected
• Contact details

Question. Sample : Property
Answer:
For Sale
A 3BHK flat in Chittaranjan Park, 3rd floor, access to roof. Fully furnished, park facing, car park. Best location. Reasonable price. Contact : ABC XYZ, Mob. 981870\( \times \times \times \times \)

Question. Sample : Vehicle
Answer:
Sale/Purchase
For sale Maruti 800 DX 2000, white, sparingly used, scratchless, self-driven, stereo-fitted, beautiful upholstery, excellent condition, no expense, rate negotiable. Contact : Amit Sharma, 25677900

Question. Sample : Household Goods
Answer:
Sale/Purchase
For Sale, 1 year old Samsung 32” flat screen LED T.V. Excellent working condition. Reasonable price. Drop facility. Contact : Raghav Rana, Mob. 989141\( \times \times \times \times \)

C. TO-LET

These ads inform the potential tenant about a room or property, which is available for rent. To-let ads are quite similar to property sale/purchase ads, providing information about the property on rent. Begin with ‘Wanted’ or ‘Available’.

The ad must have :

• Type of accommodation – number of rooms, size of rooms, etc.
• Whether independent or an apartment, whether residential or office space
• Brief description about the accommodation
• Location and surroundings
• Fixtures, fittings, facilities – water/electricity supply, proximity to school/market, etc.
• Type of tenant required – family/individual/ company lease, etc.
• Rent expected, agreement required, etc.
• Contact details – Name/Address/Phone number

Question. Sample : To-Let
Answer:
To-Let
Available on rent Anand Vihar Colony, First Floor 2/3 bedroom, well furnished and ventilated, park facing, car parking, walking distance from main market. Reasonable rent. Contact : Ms. Meena Tomar 987701\( \times \times \times \times \)

D. MISSING PERSON OR PET

Putting up an ad in the newspaper is one of the best ways to find a missing person or pet because newspapers have a wide reach as well as readership. Begin with ‘Missing’.

The ad must have :

Missing Person

• Name, age, gender, complexion, height and build
• Brief physical description
• Health and mental condition
• Clothes and other identifying features
• Reward, if any
• Date and place (since when/missing from where)
• Photograph (optional)
• Contact information – name/address/phone number

Missing Pet

• Brief physical description
• Name, breed, age, colour of fur/skin, etc.
• Identifying features, answers to what name, etc.
• Date and place (since when/missing from where)
• Contact information – name/address/phone number

Question. Sample : Missing Person
Answer:
Missing Person
Missing boy, Santosh Kumar, 15 years, 5’5”, fair slim built, wearing black t-shirt and white pants, since 10-11-\( \times \times \times \times \) from Kota railway station. Finder will be duly rewarded. Inform Kota police station, phone no. 0744-220010 or A.K. Sharma HB road, Kota, Phone no. 0744-220007

E. LOST AND FOUND

Personal belonging lost or found can be retrieved or returned by placing a Lost and Found ad. Begin with ‘Lost’ or ‘Found’.

The ad must have :

• Description of the article
• When and where the article was lost or found
• Reward for finding it
• Contact details

Question. Sample : Lost and Found
Answer:
Lost and Found
Lost a black VIP suitcase, model no. 555, \( 38 \times 30 \), containing important documents related to marketing, left in bus no. DL-P 6778 on Delhi to Jaipur route on 10th November \( \times \times \times \times \). Kindly contact : Purmal Singh, Ph. No. 9419284539. One who returns shall be suitably rewarded.

F. TOURS AND TRAVELS

These ads announce new tour/travel schemes launched by travel agencies to attract new customers and retain the old ones. Begin with ‘Package Available’.

The ad must have :

• Name of the agency
• Destinations and durations
• Details of package – food/lodging/boarding/ sight-seeing, etc.
• Cost, discount (if any)
• Contact details

Question. Sample : Travels and Tours
Answer:
Travels and Tours
Attractive package available for Manali and Ooty, 4 nights/5 days, breakfast and dinner, stay at 5 star hotel, sight-seeing included. Rs. 10000/- per head. Special discount for booking before 10th November \( \times \times \times \times \). Contact : Blue Star Travel and Tours Chennai 044-288000555

Points to Remember

• 1. Put the ad in a box.
• 2. Mention the category name at the top.
• 3. Mention all the details provided in the question as well as contact information. Use commas to separate.

Display or Commercial Advertisement :

These ads promote the sale of products having public activity and comfort. These announce events, competitions/contests, discounts, inauguration, admission notices, etc. There are no restrictions on their shape, size and colour. Sketches, drawings, designs and photographs are also drawn in every type of advertisement. They are larger than classified ads and attractive. Such ads use catchy slogans, punch lines, witty expressions, etc.

The ad must have :

• Name of the company/institute/organisers, etc.
• Details regarding the Product/Event/ Educational Course, etc.
• Special discounts/offers, (if any)
• Additional features to set it apart
• Address of company/institute/organisers, etc.

1.3 Posters

When organisations, institutions or associations wish to attract the attention of the general public at a large scale, they do it with the help of posters. An ideal poster can make anybody aware of a particular issue and ask for the readers’ support or action. A poster is often made large so that it is visible from a distance. This is why they are put up either on the wall or on billboards.

Types of Posters :

Typically, there are three types of posters.

• Political or Propaganda : These posters reach out to the mass, asking them to rally, celebrate, raise demand and effect demonstration.
• Educational or Informative : Such posters inform the mass about prevailing health hazards and their prevention. Apart from that they also alert people about the dangers in the community.
• Commercial or Marketing : They announce or advertise arrival of new movies, shows, exhibitions, workshops, music concerts, etc. At times, companies and brands wish to catch consumers’ attention towards their new or existing products. They do so by putting up commercial posters and billboards.

The Poster must have :

• Main subject theme or topic on it.
• Date, time, place and other essential details about what is being publicised.
• Catchy slogans and attractive content to grab readers’ attention and highlight the message.
• Name of the organisation, party or individual issuing it.

Keep in mind :

• The target audience
• To give an impressive heading or a title at the top.
• Use different style and size of font to emphasise on the message.
• Use a box for the poster and stick to the word limit.
• The poster must have a mass appeal.

Question. Sample Poster : Road Safety
Answer:
By Taking a Little Care
...roads can be made safer
• Follow traffic signals
• Don’t cross speed limits
• Use seat belts
• Don’t talk on mobile while driving
• Don’t drink and drive
• Use zebra crossing to cross road
• Park your vehicles only in an authorised parking lot
Issued by:
Delhi Traffic Police
With You! For You! Always!

1.4 Invitations and Reply

The act of requesting someone’s presence on a fixed day, time and venue to celebrate a particular occasion is called inviting. A spoken or written request to somebody to do something is known as an invitation. The written request is sent either in the form of a card or as a piece of paper.

Types of Invitation :

• Formal invitation
• Informal invitation

Points to Remember :

• Formal invitations are written in third person. (For e.g. Mr and Mrs Kapoor requests the pleasure...)
• In case of informal information, they are written in first or second person.
• Avoid using abbreviations except for titles, such as Mrs, Mr, St, etc.
• Include all the information provided in the question.
• Include the name of the function, occasion, venue, date and time.
• Write the name of the chief guest invited to the event.
• Full sentences and punctuation marks at the end of the sentences are not necessary.
• For some forms of formal invitations, it is necessary that the invitee replies, either accepting or refusing the invitation. On such invitation cards, the abbreviation RSVP is written at the bottom left along with, host’s name, address and phone number or organisation co-ordinating the event.

Types of Reply :

• Formal reply
• Informal reply

Points to Remember :

• Formal Reply : Acknowledgment of invitation received.
  • – Use third person to express thanks.
  • – Write if you accept the invitation/give reasons if unable to accept invitations.
• Informal Reply : Acknowledgement of invitation received.
  • – Use first/second person to express thanks.
  • – Write if you accept the invitation/give reasons if unable to accept invitation.

Question. Formal Invitation-1
Answer:
The Principal, staff and students of Gayatri Devi Sr. Sec. School, Delhi
cordially invite you to their 40th Founder’s Day Celebrations on Saturday, 12 November, \( \times \times \times \times \) at 6.00 p.m. in the School Premises
Shri XYZ
(Chief Minister of Delhi)
has kindly consented to be the Chief Guest
RSVP
Admn. Officer (Guests are requested to be
Phone : 24423769 on their seats by 5.45 p.m.)
(Valid for two only)

Question. Formal Invitation-2
Answer:
Mr and Mrs Sandhu
request the pleasure of your company
on the auspicious occasion of the
Wedding of their son
Vikas
with
Vishakha
(D/o Mrs. and Mr. K.J. Malik)
On Monday, the 29th February, \( \times \times \times \times \) at 18.00 hrs.
At
Gopal Ashram Chowk, Jalandhar
With best compliments
RSVP from
M.S. Sandhu All Relatives
26, Race Course Road, &
Chandigarh Friends

Question. Formal Invitation-3
Answer:
M/s Goyal Brothers
request the pleasure of your company
on the auspicious occasion of the
Inauguration
of their showroom
BEAUTEX
of ready-made garments
at
The Mall, Shimla, H.P.
on
Sunday, the 12th October \( \times \times \times \times \)
at 11.00 a.m.
All are cordially invited.
RSVP
M/s R.S. Goyal & Sons
New Delhi 50% off on All Garments
(one week inaugural promotion)

Formal Invitation-4

A letter of invitation for a formal occasion is given. The format of such letter is the same as that of a standard formal letter.

Must be sent to :
• Dignitaries, when inviting as a Chief Guest/ Judge.
• Students/teachers/teams for seminar/ competition/celebration, etc.

Question. Sample Formal Invitation-4 : Invitation for Seminar
Answer:
The Environment Club
Summer Fields School,
Pratap Singh Marg
Bhopal - 42
April 10, 20\( \times \times \)
The Principal,
New Green Fields School
Arjun Marg
Bhopal-19
Madam,
Subject: Invitation for Seminar on Climatic Change and Its Consequences
The Environment Club of our school has arranged a one day seminar on ‘Climatic Change and Its Consequences’ for senior students of all schools with North West zone on April 15, 20\( \times \times \). Nandita Das, eminent actress and environmentalist has kindly consented to conduct the seminar. Please depute four senior students of your school to attend the seminar and send their names to us latest by April 12, 20\( \times \times \).
Looking forward to your confirmation.
Yours faithfully,
Nidhi Singh

Question. Formal Invitation-5
Answer:
Mrs. Sulabha Deshpande
requests the pleasure of your company at dinner on the occasion of her 50th Birthday
On Sunday, May 10, 20\( \times \times \)
at 7:00 P.M.
at her residence : B-121, Chittaranjan Park, New Delhi-19
RSVP
Mitali Deshpande
981819\( \times \times \times \times \)

Question. Letter of Acceptance Format and Sample
Answer:
Dr. B. Bhatnagar, Chairman,
ICSR, New Delhi, 19th April, 20\( \times \times \).

The Secretary Science Club,
Bharat National Public School, Bharatpur.

Subject: Consent to Inaugurate Seminar

Dear Jagriti,

Thank you for your invitation dated 17th April, 20\( \times \times \) asking the undersigned to inaugurate the seminar on the role of young scientists’ in the scientific progress of our country. I feel happy to convey my consent to inaugurate the seminar and to interact with the students.

Yours sincerely,
B. Bhatnagar (Dr)

Question. Formal Reply-1 (Acceptance)
Answer:
Mrs. and Mr. Rakesh Om Prakash Mehra have much pleasure in accepting the kind invitation of Mrs. and Mr. Anupam Kher to the marriage of their son Sikandar on 11th May, 20\( \times \times \) at 7:30 P.M.

Question. Formal Reply-2 (Acceptance)
Answer:
Mrs. and Mr. R.P. Mehra are thankful to Mrs. and Mr. Kher for their kind invitation to their son Sikandar’s wedding on 11th May, 20\( \times \times \) at 7:30 P.M. and has great pleasure accepting it.

Question. Formal Reply-1 (Refusal/Decline)
Answer:
Mrs. and Mr. Rakesh Om Prakash Mehra sincerely thank Mrs. and Mr. Anupam Kher for their kind invitation to the wedding of their son Sikandar on 11th May, 20\( \times \times \) at 7:30 p.m., but regret their inability to attend because of a prior engagement. They wish Sikander a blissful conjugal life.

Question. Formal Reply-2 (Refusal/Decline)
Answer:
Mrs. and Mr. R.K. Mehra thank Mrs. and Mr. Kher for their kind invitation to the marriage of their son Sikandar on 11th May, 20\( \times \times \) at 7:30 p.m., but regret their inability to attend it due to a prior engagement. They wish Sikandar a blissful conjugal life.

Question. Formal Reply-3 (Refusal/Decline)
Answer:
K-2017, Chittaranjan Park, New Delhi-19
21 April, 20\( \times \times \)
Mrs. and Mr. Rakesh Om Prakash Mehra thank Mrs. and Mr. Anupam Kher for the invitation to the marriage of their son Sikandar on Friday, May 11, 20\( \times \times \) at 7:30 p.m. However, they express their inability to be present on the occasion due to a prior engagement. With best wishes, The Mehras

Informal Invitation Samples:

Question. Informal Invitation-1
Answer:
4357, Vasant Kunj
Raj Nagar
1 May 20\( \times \times \)
Dear Vinnie,
You will be pleased to know that the wedding of my elder sister Reena Sen is going to be held on the 15th May 200\( \times \) at Hotel Lake View, Udaipur. The whole family will be there since the morning. I invite you to join us for lunch in the hotel on the 15th. The wedding ceremony will take place at 8 in the evening. I do hope you will be with us on this auspicious occasion.
Yours sincerely
Leena

Question. Informal Invitation-2
Answer:
27-B, Panchsheel Park, New Delhi
7th February 20xx
Dear Kunal,
I invite you to the house warming ceremony of our newly constructed house at the address given above. The inauguration ceremony will begin with ‘Havan Ceremony’ at 10 a.m. followed by lunch at 1 p.m. on 25th February, 20\( \times \times \). Please do join us on this auspicious day.
Yours sincerely
Karan

Question. Informal Reply (Acceptance) 1
Answer:
217 MIG Flats, Surya Vihar, New Delhi
15 March 20\( \times \times \)
Dear Shuchi,
I have received your invitation for your birthday party on 25 March 20\( \times \times \) at 5 p.m. at Hotel Janpath. I am extremely happy to know that all our old friends are likely to be there. I would like to confirm my participation, Looking forward to the momentous occasion.
With love
Mini

Question. Informal Reply (Refusal/Decline) 2
Answer:
Aakash Gandhi, 4, Model Town, New Delhi
30 May, 20\( \times \times \)
Dear Abhinav,
It was extremely delightful to hear that the marriage of your sister has been fixed for 10th of July. I’m sure everyone must be busy preparing for the wedding. I’m sorry to say that I will have to miss this once-in-a-lifetime occasion because I have my IIT entrance exam on that very day. I deeply regret my inability to be there with you. I’m sure amidst all the celebrations you will not miss me. I also hope everything will go smoothly. Congratulate your sister and your family on my behalf. Also convey my sincerest apologies. I will try to come later.
Yours lovingly,
Aakash

2. Letter Writing

A letter is written in order to express or convey one’s thought, either to someone in particular or the mass. One can show his/her concern regarding a pressing public issue or something personal. Similarly, one can enquire about concerning matters, apply for jobs, spread awareness, etc. by writing a letter.

Generally, there are two forms of letters:

• Formal Letter
• Informal Letter

(i) Formal Letters : Also known as business or official letters, these are written for formal/ professional communication. The language used is also formal, e.g., it is sober and less flowery. The formal letter follows a strict format, which must be adhered to while writing. However, the pattern of writing may differ from department to department, either in government institutions or newspapers, NGOs, etc.

(ii) Informal Letters : These letters are written to friends and loved once. Therefore, the tone and language of the letter is quite casual.

Format of a Formal Letter

A formal letter must have the following parts:

(a) Sender’s Address : Only the full address of the one sending the letter, to be written at the top left. In case sender’s address is not mentioned in the question, create one.

(b) Date :Write the full date on which the letter is being written. During exam, it is advisable that the students write the same date of the day of their exam.

(c) Recipient’s Address : It must contain the recipient’s designation, name of the company, full address with pin code.

(d) Subject : It is an indicator, which explains the purpose of the letter to its reader as precisely as possible. The subject line is not a long, full sentence but a short one without a full stop at the end.

(e) Salutation : Use Sir/Madam to address officials, higher authorities and editors. Recipient with whom the sender shares a cordial relationship, can be addressed with Dear Mr./Mrs./Ms.

(f) Body of the Letter : The body contains three paragraphs. The first paragraph introduces the purpose of writing the letter. The second paragraph explains the main issue in detail and the last paragraph expresses the sender’s expectations, requests, etc.

(g) Complimentary Close : A formal letter is closed with either ‘Yours sincerely’ or ‘Yours faithfully’.

(h) Sender’s Name and Signature : Write sender’s full name at the very end of the letter. Mention his/her designation if asked/required.

Usually Formal Letters are of three kinds:

• 1. Business or Official Letters
• 2. Letter to the Editor
• 3. Letter of Job Application

Business or Official Letters

These include the following types of letters:

A. Letter of Enquiry

To enquire about a course, procedure of admission/membership, availability of product(s) or service(s), tour/ travel packages or arrangements.

The letter must have :

• (a) Reference to the ad (if already given)
• (b) Clearly mention the information you need

Question. Write a letter to the Commissioner of Municipal Corporation of Delhi, requesting the setting up of a dispensary in your locality (Sector-6, Rohini) as a resident representative.
Answer:
25-A
Sector-6 Rohini
Delhi-110085

October 8, \( 20 \times \times \)

The Commissioner
Municipal Corporation of Delhi
New Delhi

Subject : Request for Setting up a Dispensary

Sir,
On behalf of the residents of sector-6, Rohini, I wish to draw your attention to the lack of medical facilities in our locality.
Getting medical aid at the appropriate time is a reason for concern in this area as the nearest dispensary is about four kilometres away. Though there are some private clinics, these are beyond the reach of common man as they are very expensive.
Considering the problems faced by us on a regular basis, I request you to make necessary arrangements for setting up a dispensary in our locality as soon as possible. Your efforts would be much appreciated.
Thanking you in anticipation.

Yours sincerely
Vishesh

Question. Sample Letter: Write an enquiry letter to a coaching institute regarding classes for the Pre Medical Test.
Answer:
Amardeep Colony
Greater Industrial Area, Kanpur-21

Subject : Enquiry regarding coaching classes

Sir/Madam,
This is in reference to your advertisement in ‘The Daily Times’ dated 18 January, \( 20 \times \times \). I am preparing for the Pre Medical Test. I am interested in joining your institute, but before I do so, I would like you to provide me the following information.
I would like to know the duration and the timing of the course. What is the fee structure and the mode of payment? What is the strength of each batch and the success rate of your institute. Also, kindly let me know whether you offer any discounts to students who have excelled in academics.
I would be grateful if you could give me a prompt response so that I can decide timely to join your institute.
Thank you

Yours faithfully
Meenal Puri

B. Letter of complaint

To complain to sellers or vendors/organisations for selling/delivering defective items, incomplete order, non-payment respectively. Letter of complaint can also be written to concerned authorities, regarding a social issue one faced recently or faces daily.

The letter must have :

• (a) Details about the product/services/social problem. In case of products and services, include details, such as bill number, model number, date of purchase, etc.
• (b) Mention what is causing the problem and how it is affecting you. In case, you are complaining about a social problem, write about how it is causing the general public to suffer.
• (c) For products/services, request for replace, return or refund. Request for a quick action to be taken to prevent a social problem.

Question. Sample Letter: Write a complaint letter regarding a defective washing machine you recently purchased.
Answer:
56, Pushpa Nivas
Greater Indrapuram,
Bangalore-91

5 January, \( 20 \times \times \)

M/s. Manorama Electronics,
32, Commercial Street,
Bangalore-42

Subject : Complaint regarding washing machine

Sir,
This is regarding the Samsung washing machine, which I bought from your shop on December 7, \( 20 \times \times \). My bill number is SSWM 595432 and the model number is WA 82S4B.
It is a fully automatic, front loading washing machine, which was working at the time of installation. However, it has suddenly stopped working and makes a horrible sound. It is causing me a lot of inconvenience.
The washing machine is well within the guarantee period, therefore, I request you to look into the matter and repair or replace it accordingly at the earliest.
Looking forward to an early response.

Yours faithfully
Meera Godebole

C. To Place an order

Write a letter to sellers or vendors to place bulk order for goods, such as books, sports/laboratory equipment, electronic gadgets, household items, etc.

The letter must have :

• (a) Details of goods being ordered, such as brand, item, author, colour, quantity, etc.
• (b) The mode of dispatch and payment. Ask for relevant discounts, such as students discount, corporate discount, etc.

Question. Sample Letter: Write a letter to place a bulk order for books for a school library.
Answer:
Army School
448A, Netaji Subhash Road
Aligarh-21

20 January \( 20 \times \times \)

The Sales Manager
Light House
Main Road
Noida-16

Subject : Order for books

Dear Sir,
I have reliably learnt that the books I require are currently available in your bookshop. I would like to place the following order for the school library.

1. Macbeth - William Shakespeare - Quantity: Four
2. A Suitable Boy - Vikram Seth - Quantity: Three
3. Pride and Prejudice - Jane Austen - Quantity: Four
4. Wings of Fire - A.P.J. Abdul Kalam - Quantity: Four

Please send the books before February 1, \( 20 \times \times \). Payment will be made after they are received and checked for damage/defects. Payment will not be made for damaged/defective books nor will they be accepted. You are requested to allow the discount permissible for schools.
Kindly ensure that the order reaches us on time.
Thank you

Yours faithfully
Priya Rawal
Librarian

D. Letter of Cancellation

This letter informs the seller/vendor that one wishes to cancel a subscription, a service or an order one placed, because either one is shifting base or there has been an undue delay in the delivery. Other reasons for cancellation may be, item sent is defective or one does not require them any more.

The letter must have :

• (a) Details about the product/service, such as bill or subscription number, date of placing the order, etc.
• (b) Mention the reason behind order cancellation-shifting base, delay in delivery, defective items delivered, etc.
• (c) Request for refund in case of advance payment.

Question. Sample Letter-1 (Cancellation): Write a letter to cancel a magazine subscription as you are moving out of the country.
Answer:
Flat no. 24,
Prince Apartment
Indirapuram
Sector-3
Ghaziabad-29

April 7, \( 20 \times \times \)

The Manager
India Today Magazine
A-61, Sector-57
Noida-01

Subject: Cancellation of Magazine Subscription

Sir,
As I am moving out of the country next month, I am writing to you to cancel the subscription of your monthly magazine at the address I have mentioned above. The subscription number is 123FB and it is under the name Milind Babu, I paid Rs. 5070 for 3 years subscription of which two years deposit is still left. I request you to kindly cancel the subscription and refund the remaining amount at the earliest.
Thank you

Yours sincerely
Milind Babu

Question. Sample Letter-2 (Cancellation): Write a letter of cancellation of an order for books due to a delay in execution.
Answer:
Angel Public School
14th Main Road
Nungambakkam
Chennai-34

April-23, \( 20 \times \times \)

The Sales Manager
Galgotia Book Store
Connaught Place
New Delhi-35

Subject: Letter of Cancellation of Order

Dear Sir,
This is with reference to the order no. 01/468 for the new books placed with you on 23 March \( 20 \times \times \). The order was to be executed by 10 April, \( 20 \times \times \), but unfortunately there has been no response from your side.
We therefore regret to inform you that the order placed earlier stands cancelled. We needed the books for an event on 15 April \( 20 \times \times \), but till date we have neither received the consignment nor any clarification from your side even after telephonic reminders.
The delay has caused us a great deal of inconvenience. The unprofessional handling of the order by you has forced us to take the action. We request you to kindly return the amount of Rs. 1000/- as advance payment sent to you earlier.
Thank you

Yours sincerely
Kavita Krishnan
Librarian

E. Letter to the Editor

As a bonafide citizen of one’s country, one might have many concerns of social, economic or political importance. Drawing the mass attention at once or expressing one’s opinion to a bigger audience is possible by writing to the editor of a national daily. The letter may be a medium to voice one’s reaction or complain against a social issue. It may also refer to a situation, which requires urgent attention from the concerned authorities. If highlighting a social problem, mention the causes and effects of the problem along with some logical solutions to it.

Question. Sample Letter: Write a letter to the Editor of a national daily suggesting solutions to end the menace of begging on city streets.
Answer:
15-Vishwakarma Colony
Civil Lines
Kanpur-78

January 20, \( 20 \times \times \)

The Editor
The Hindustan Times
New Delhi-30

Subject: Suggestion to End Begging

Sir,
Through the columns of your esteemed newspaper, I wish to draw the attention of the general public towards the menace caused by beggars on the city streets and suggest some solutions to the problem.
Some beggars, no doubt, deserve our sympathy. They are handicapped. They are unable to earn their living. But the pity is that most of the beggars are able-bodied. Begging has become a profession for them. They find it the easiest way to earn their living. Some of them are criminals. They beg only to hide their crimes. This large-scale begging is a slur on the fair name of our country.
Begging should be abolished by law. It should be made a punishable offence. The government should open asylums for those beggars who are really helpless. Able-bodied beggars should be provided employment opportunities with fair wages. This will prevent them from begging or getting involved in any form of social evil.
We, with the help of NGOs, should encourage them to find a vocation, which would help them earn a respectable livelihood. This can be made possible only if we stop giving alms to beggars. People can thus play a big role in ending this evil. However, the need of the hour is to create awareness amongst the deprived sections of society about the ill effects of begging on our country’s image. It is also necessary to educate their young ones so that they don’t follow their same foot steps.
Thank you.

Yours faithfully
Sumit

F. Letter of Job Application

The purpose of writing this letter is to respond to a ‘situation vacant’ ad. It is always accompanied by a detailed bio-data as a separate attachment.

A bio-data must have the following:

• Name
• Father’s Name
• Date of Birth
• Age
• Gender
• Marital Status
• Current Address
• Contact Number
• Educational Qualification
• Work Experience
• Expected Salary
• Language Known
• References (at least two)

Question. Sample Letter: Respond to an advertisement for the post of Marketing Manager. Apply with a complete bio-data.
Answer:
H.No. 573
M.G. Marg
New Delhi

22 January \( 20 \times \times \)

The General Manager
G.P. Pvt Limited,
Mumbai

Subject: Application for The Post of Marketing Manager

Sir,
In response to your advertisement in the ‘The Hindustan Times’ dated 16 January \( 20 \times \times \). I wish to be considered for the post of Marketing Manager. I feel my qualification and experience make me a suitable candidate for the job.
I am enclosing my bio-data, testimonials and attested copies of my certificates.
I can join immediately.
I hope to receive a positive response from your company.
Thank you

Yours faithfully
Amit Sharma
Encl: Bio-data, testimonials, attested copies of certificates.

BIO-DATA
Name: Anil Sharma
Father’s Name: Sh. Naresh Sharma
Date of Birth: 10 December 1991
Age: 26 Years
Sex: Male
Marital Status: Single
Nationality: Indian
Educational Qualifications: (i) B.Sc from DCP, College, New Delhi (ii) MBA (Marketing), College of Business Management, Lucknow
Experience: One year at Wipro Limited as Marketing Manager
Languages Known: English and Hindi
Expected salary: Negotiable
Strengths: Good time management, positive, team spirit and leadership
Hobbies: Reading, travelling and playing
Permanent Address: H.No. 678, Civil Lines, Patiala
Correspondence Address: H.No. 573, MG Marg, New Delhi
Contact No.: 98256\( \times \times \times \times \times \)
Email ID: anil.sh_green@gmail.com
References: (1) Prof. AK Ranjan Adarsh College, Ambala (2) Dr. B.M. Gupta (Civil Hospital Agra)

Q1 You are Roshan, Secretary of Cultural Club, Hyderabad Public School. Write a report in 100-125 words for your school magazine about the activities organized by your club for greening of environment.

Q2 You have attended a seminar on how to decrease the burden of studies on school going children. Write a report for your school magazine. You are Raveena of Guru Nanak Public School, New Delhi.

Q3 You are a reporter. You witnessed a ghastly accident of Punjab Mail at Amritsar. Write a report for your newspaper.

Q4 You witnessed a road accident. Write a report to be published in your newspaper. You are a reporter working with HT.

Q5 You are Cultural Secretary of your school. Your school celebrated its golden jubilee. Write a report for your school magazine about the celebration.

Q6 As a representative of your school, you attended a workshop on creative writing. Write a report for your school magazine. Invent all details.

Q7 Write a report on the fire accident in the market place. You are Pramod, the reporter of HT. Invent all details.

Q8 Your school celebrated Library Week. As the Head Boy of the school, write a report for your school magazine inventing all details.

Q9 You have received training in First Aid. You are a member of Red Cross Society of your school. Prepare a report for your school magazine. Invent all details.

Q10 You are a representative of your residents’ welfare association. You have attended a workshop on Art and Handwork. Write a report to be published in your association’s news letter, Invent all details.