How to Write Letters (Formerly The Book of Letters) A Complete Guide to Correct Business and Personal Correspondence

This handy manual demystifies the art of written correspondence, offering a clear roadmap from the opening heading to the final signature. It treats the letter as a vehicle for thought, emphasizing brevity and purpose without sacrificing courtesy. Whether you’re drafting a formal business proposal or a friendly note, the guide sets a steady tone for every page.

Detailed chapters break down each component—inside address, salutation, body, closing—and flag common pitfalls such as stale stock phrases and inappropriate language. Specialized sections cover invitations, condolence notes, sales letters, credit requests, and even telegrams, complete with sample layouts and advice on stationery, monograms, and crests. Practical tips on format, form paragraphs, and legal considerations keep the advice grounded in real‑world usage.

Illustrated examples from a range of industries give readers a visual sense of proper layout, while the author’s succinct commentary makes the material approachable for both novices and seasoned scribes. The book’s timeless principles adapt easily to today’s electronic communications, reminding us that good etiquette transcends medium. Listeners will come away with the confidence to compose clear, courteous letters that get results.