Mastering English Essay and Letter Writing: Structure, Phrases, and Tips

Discussion Essay: Exploring Pros and Cons

A discussion essay requires you to present both sides of an argument (advantages and disadvantages, or arguments for and against) before offering your own balanced opinion. This type of essay is crucial for developing critical thinking and persuasive writing skills.

Structure

• 1. Introduction: Introduce the topic objectively, outlining the points to be discussed, and subtly hint at your position to engage the reader.
• 2. Advantages: Dedicate a section to the positive aspects or arguments in favor of the topic. Provide clear explanations and supporting examples.
• 3. Disadvantages: Dedicate a section to the negative aspects or arguments against the topic. Again, provide clear explanations and supporting examples.
• 4. Conclusion: Summarize the main points from both sides and clearly state your final, well-reasoned opinion, ensuring it is consistent with the arguments presented.

Opinion Essay: Expressing Your Viewpoint Formally

An opinion essay focuses on presenting your personal viewpoint on a topic, supported by strong arguments and compelling examples. It aims to persuade the reader to agree with your perspective.

Structure

• 1. Introduction: Introduce the topic and your main ideas. You may include a rhetorical question that you will answer in your conclusion to pique the reader's interest.
• 2. Body Paragraphs: Provide justified reasons and examples to support your arguments. Each paragraph should focus on a single main idea, developed with evidence and elaboration.
• 3. Conclusion: Summarize your main ideas, reiterate your opinion based on the information already presented, and answer any rhetorical questions from the introduction. End with a strong concluding statement.

Useful Phrases for Opinion Essays

For Introduction:

• "Many people feel..." (muchos sienten)
• "It is said that..." (se afirma que)
• "According to..." (según)

For Body Paragraphs:

• "In my opinion..."
• "I believe that..." (creo que)
• "For instance..." (por ejemplo)
• "...such as..." (tal como)
• "On the one hand..." / "On the other hand..." (por una parte / por otra parte)
• "Because of this..." (debido a esto)
• "The main reason for this is..." (la razón principal de esto es)

For Conclusion:

• "In conclusion..."
• "To sum up..." (para resumir)

Formal and Informal Letters: Structure and Key Phrases

Understanding the conventions of both formal and informal letters is crucial for effective written communication in English, whether for professional or personal purposes.

Formal Letter

Used for official correspondence, such as job applications, complaints, inquiries, or communication with individuals you don't know well or need to show respect to.

Structure

• 1. Opening: Begin with a polite salutation and clearly state the objective or purpose of your letter.
• 2. Body: Develop the main topic, clearly defining concepts, actions, and timelines. Be precise, concise, and professional.
• 3. Closing: Conclude by expressing gratitude, mentioning your expectation of a response, and using a formal closing.

Useful Phrases for Formal Letters

For Opening:

• "Dear Sir/Madam..."
• "I am writing to enquire about..." (le escribo para saber)
• "We greatly appreciate..." (quisiéramos agradecerle)

For Body:

• "Could you tell me...?" (¿me podría decir...?)
• "In accordance with your request..." (de acuerdo con su petición)
• "I would be grateful if you could..." (agradecería que usted...)

For Closing:

• "Thank you for your help."
• "I look forward to hearing from you." (espero noticias suyas)
• "Yours faithfully..." (atentamente)

Informal Letter

Used for personal correspondence with friends, family, or people you know well. The tone is relaxed and conversational.

Structure

• 1. Opening: Start with a friendly greeting, state your reason for writing, and establish a personal connection.
• 2. Body: Develop the topic in a clear, friendly, and personal manner. You can share news, ask questions, or discuss personal matters.
• 3. Closing: End with a friendly closing, often with an excuse for ending the letter, followed by your first name.

Useful Phrases for Informal Letters

For Opening:

• "Dear Pepe, How are you?"
• "I'm writing because..."
• "I would like to..." (me gustaría)
• "It's been so long since I heard from you..." (hace tiempo que no sé nada de ti)

For Closing:

• "Take care!" (¡cuídate!)
• "Stay in touch!" (¡seguimos en contacto!)
• "Bye for now!" (¡hasta luego!)
• "See you soon!" (¡nos vemos pronto!)

General Useful Linking Words for English Writing

These words and phrases help connect ideas, ensure smooth transitions, and improve the coherence of your writing across all essay and letter types.

• "Also" / "Too" (también)
• "In addition" / "Additionally" / "Furthermore" / "Moreover" (además)
• "In the same way" (de la misma manera)
• "Equally" (igualmente)
• "However" / "Nevertheless" (sin embargo)
• "Although" (aunque)
• "Whereas" (mientras que)
• "In spite of" (a pesar de)