Key facts

  • Identify the form first: letter, demi-official letter, memorandum or report; each has a different layout and tone.
  • Keep the subject precise and write the purpose in the opening sentence.
  • Use factual, neutral language; avoid emotional, vague or argumentative phrasing.
  • For reports, present findings and recommendations, not a personal complaint.
  • Stay near the word limit; format and clarity matter as much as content.

Key Points at a Glance

  1. 1

    Identify the form first: letter, demi-official letter, memorandum or report; each has a different layout and tone.

  2. 2

    Keep the subject precise and write the purpose in the opening sentence.

  3. 3

    Use factual, neutral language; avoid emotional, vague or argumentative phrasing.

  4. 4

    For reports, present findings and recommendations, not a personal complaint.

  5. 5

    Stay near the word limit; format and clarity matter as much as content.

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Concept & Rules

In RAS Mains Paper IV, this part tests whether a candidate can write brief, clear and formally arranged official communication. The answer must suit the authority addressed, state the purpose early, keep a courteous official tone, and end with a practical request, direction or finding. Marks are awarded for format, relevance, economy of expression, sequence of facts, grammar, and administrative tone.

  • Identify the form first: letter, demi-official letter, memorandum or report; each has a different layout and tone.
  • Keep the subject precise and write the purpose in the opening sentence.
  • Use factual, neutral language; avoid emotional, vague or argumentative phrasing.
  • For reports, present findings and recommendations, not a personal complaint.
  • Stay near the word limit; format and clarity matter as much as content.

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PredictedPredicted Questions

Use these prompts to test answer structure before moving to practice.

110MWrite a letter of resignation to your employer justifying your intent. (150 words)10 marks · 150 words

Model Answer

Use item t160-010 as the model: formal address, subject, resignation date after notice period, valid reason, gratitude, handover assurance and request for relieving.

~150 words · 10 marks