Writing an Informal Email or Letter for B2 First

Writing an Informal Email or Letter for B2 First (FCE)

In the B2 First (FCE) Writing exam, you may be asked to write an informal email or letter to a friend, a relative, or someone you know. This task tests your ability to communicate clearly and naturally, use an appropriate pleasant tone, organise your ideas well, and show good control of everyday English. Writing  an informal email or letter for B2 First

The good news? If you imagine you are writing to a real friend, you are already halfway there.

Let’s look at how to structure an informal email/letter and then study three high-quality model answers.

Structure of an informal email/letter (FCE)

Greeting (salutation)

Use a friendly, informal opening:

• Hi John,
• Dear Sarah,
• Hello Jamie,

Avoid too formal openings like “Dear Sir” or “Dear Madam.”

Opening paragraph

Ask how your friend is. Refer to the reason you are writing.

Examples:

• How are things? I hope you’re doing well.
• I just wanted to tell you about…
• Thanks for your message — it was great to hear from you!

Main Body (1–2 paragraphs)

Here you answer all parts of the task, describe experiences, plans, or news, use natural language, contractions (I’m, don’t, we’ve), use linkers: also, by the way, anyway, in the end, actually, to be honest. Make it understandable, friendly, and well organised.

Closing paragraph

Say what happens next, or invite a reply, or make a friendly suggestion.

Examples:

• Write back soon and tell me what you think.
• Hope to catch up with you soon!
• Tell me if you can come.

Sign-off

Use an informal ending:

• Best wishes,
• Take care,
• See you soon,
• Cheers,

Then write your first name.

How to write an informal email or letter for B2 First

Model 1 – informal email about a music festival

Exam task (shortened):

You went to a music festival. Describe it, say what you did, and invite your friend to come next time.

Subject: You won’t believe this festival!

Hi John,

How are you? I’ve just got back from the most amazing music festival and I have to tell you about it.

The place was vibrant and lively from the moment we arrived. There were live bands everywhere, food stalls from all over the world, and even a quiet picnic area where people could relax. My friends and I spent most of the day dancing, trying different foods, and later we found a nice spot to sit down, chat, and enjoy the atmosphere.

The absolute highlight was when my favourite band came on stage — honestly, it felt unreal! I’m still smiling when I think about it.

You should definitely come with us next time. I’m sure you’d love it just as much as we did. Let me know what you think!

Take care,

Alex

Model 2 – informal email inviting a friend on a trip

Exam task (shortened):

Invite your friend on a camping trip. Give details and explain why it will be fun.

Subject: Fancy a weekend in nature?

Hi Jamie,

Hope you’re doing well! I’m planning a camping trip to Maplewood National Park next month and I’d love you to come with me.

We’re leaving early on Saturday morning and coming back on Sunday evening. I’ve already booked a campsite near a lake, and we can go hiking, try canoeing, and maybe even have a small barbecue in the evening. Honestly, I can’t wait to escape the city for a bit and just relax in nature.

Knowing how much you enjoy outdoor adventures, I’m sure you’d love it. Do you have any ideas for activities or food? Tell me if you’re in!

Cheers,

Sam

Model 3 – informal letter about a charity run

Exam task (shortened):

Describe a charity run, say how you felt, and invite your friend next time.

Dear Sarah,

How are you? I wanted to tell you about the charity run I took part in last weekend.

It was held in a lovely park, and the aim was to raise money for the nearby animal rescue centre. The whole day was full of funny short moments — at one point I even tripped over my sneakers’ laces (don’t worry, my pride suffered more than my knees!).

Even though I was exhausted by the end, I felt really proud and happy to have done something useful. The atmosphere was so positive and everyone was incredibly supportive.

There’s another run planned next month, and I think you’d really enjoy it. It would be great to do it together. Do let me know what you think!

Best wishes,

Emily

Exam tips

• Always answer all parts of the task
• Sustain the tone friendly and natural
• Use paragraphs
• Employ contractions and everyday language
• Don’t sound very formal — this is a message to a friend!

If you really want to learn English but don’t know how to do it and where to start, don’t hesitate to contact us. Book an online English lesson with one of our certified and experienced English teachers and take a test and consultation! Tap the banner to learn more!