How to Write a Letter to Authority

BarthDarth

Editor

posted on 10 years ago — updated on 1 second ago

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A letter to Authority is similar to a "Letter of persuasion". However it should not be mixed with a "Letter of Complaint"; its main aim is to try to convince and persuade an authority figure into doing something, or changing his mind on a particular matter. For instance, your boss at work decided to cancel some employee benefits such as free transportation for all workers, due to budget cuts. You can write a letter to your boss to argue your position.

Steps

Preparation:

Analyze the situation or prompt. Highlight the KEY WORDS.

Think about the appropriate tone to use; remember you are talking to an authority figure, and you are persuading him, not forcing him. Therefore, do not be aggressive, and stay polite!

Think of valid and powerful arguments; talking about important things, and use strong arguments in order to convince him/her. Talking about irrelevant and weak arguments will ruin your letter.

Prepare hard evidence and facts, in order to justify your arguments.

Layout:

Like any other Letter, you should state your address, his/her address, and the date. YOUR ADDRESS: Building #, Street Name, City/ State, Zip Code, Country. (on the top right) DATE: The date is under your address. HIS/HER ADDRESS: Building #, Street Name, City/ State, Zip Code, Country. (below the date, and on the left)

Greetings: If the person you are addressing is known: "Dear Mr./ Mrs./ Miss Smith," (Title + Last name). If the person you are addressing is unknown: "Dear Sir/Madam,"

Introduction: Your position. Reason for writing. Example: " I am a student at Harlem High School writing on behalf of all students concerning the discontinuation of the art, drama, and music programs in our school"

Body: (consists of about 3 paragraphs) Paragraph 1: Argument 1, with justification. Paragraph 2: Argument 2, with justification. Paragraph 3: Counter Argument/ or suggestions and solutions.

Conclusion: conclude what you previously said, and write closing remarks. Example: "I hope you find this option suitable", "I hope you take this matter into consideration", "Thank you for your time and effort", etc.

Sign off: If the person you are addressing is Known: "Yours sincerely," If the person you are addressing is Unknown: "Yours faithfully," Under it, write your full name and signature.