Unit 3

Writing:                                             How to write a letter to ask for advice

Letters asking for or giving advice can be formal, informal or semi-formal depending on the situation. A letter asking for advice can be sent to a friend, a consultant or an advice column in a magazine. Details of the problem should be mentioned. A letter giving advice should contain suggestions introduced with appropriate language.

Asking for Advice:

1.   
Introduction
Paragraph 1 - reason(s) for writing

2.   
Main Body
Paragraphs 2-3 - description of problem(s)

3.   
Conclusion
Final Paragraph - closing remarks
Full name
Useful Language for Letters Asking for Advice

Opening Remarks:

A.   Formal:

- I am writing to ask if you could help me with
- I would appreciate it if you could give me some advice about
- I am writing to ask for your advice
- I would be grateful if you could offer your advice
- Could you possibly offer your advice
- I wonder if you could help me with a problem

B.   Informal
- I'm writing to ask for your advice
- Can you give me your advice
- I've got a problem and I need your advice

Closing Remarks:

A.   Formal:
- I would appreciate it if you could give me your advice as soon as possible
- I look forward to receiving your advice
- It would be of great help if you could advise me

 

B.   Informal:
- What do you think I should do?
- Please let me know what you think I should do
- Please tell me what to do

Closing Remarks:

A.   Formal:
- I trust you will accept this advice
- I hope this will be of help
- I would very much like to know if this was helpful

B.   Informal:
- Hope this has helped
- Let me know what happens