Guides / DELE & SIELE writing
How to write a formal letter for the DELE
The formal letter (carta formal) is one of the most common DELE writing tasks — and very trainable, because it follows a predictable structure and set phrases. Here's how to write one that scores.
Get the register right
A formal letter uses usted, not tú, and a polite, impersonal tone. Avoid slang and overly casual expressions. Register consistency is marked directly, so decide formal and stay formal throughout.
Structure and useful phrases
Greeting: Estimado/a señor/a or Estimados señores. Opening: Le escribo para… / Me dirijo a usted para… Body: develop each required point, one idea per paragraph. Request or conclusion: Le agradecería que… / Quedo a la espera de su respuesta. Sign-off: Atentamente, followed by your name.
Cover every bullet point
Formal-letter prompts list several things to include — explain, request, complain, propose. Underline each and make sure a sentence addresses it. Missing one is the most common way to lose task marks.
Polish before you finish
Re-read for usted agreement (verbs and possessives), the subjunctive after polite requests (Le agradecería que me enviara…), and accents. Practise a few letters with feedback and the structure becomes automatic. Try Escrito free.
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