Common writing errors on practice FCE May 2007

 

When writing a letter to someone you don’t know it should be dear Mr. or Mrs. last name.

 

“I wait/expect your response” is forward and almost rude.  “I look forward to hearing from you  is much better.

 

When in doubt, sign with:

Sincerely,

Christine

 

Make sure you refer back to the advertisement or letter when responding to something.  Do not assume that the person who posted this advertisement has only posted one ad.  Make sure you refer to the specific ad.

 

When you sign, you are not Mrs. unless you are married.

 

Another thing not other thing

 

“Is there payment for the job? How much is the pay for the job?  What would the pay be?”  rather than “How much are you going to pay me?” which sounds too direct.

 

writing not writting

 

I am interested in the position.

 

 

When you have a choice, go for the creative option rather than writing two letters.

 

Indent paragraphs.

Write in organized paragraphs.

 

If you are going to make something up (like pretend you are someone you are not) in the letter, make it quite believable.

 

Organize your thoughts before you write.

 

Make sure your sentences aren’t too long.  There were lots of run-ons and comma splices. Lots of sentences were compound despite having two independent clauses that were in no way related.

 

Prepared by Christine Scharf May 2007