Letter writing in the NIACL AO 2025 Descriptive Test is more than just arranging words on a page — it’s about clarity, correctness, and impact. Many aspirants underestimate it, but in a competitive exam where every mark matters, a well-crafted letter can be the difference between selection and disappointment.
In this guide, we will cover:
- Exam relevance of letter writing
- Types of letters asked in NIACL AO
- Marking criteria & common pitfalls
- Step-by-step approach
- Formats for formal & informal letters
- Scoring tips
- Sample topics & model structures
1. Importance of Letter Writing in NIACL AO 2025
The NIACL AO descriptive section tests your communication skills, tone appropriateness, and presentation — essential for an Administrative Officer role. As an AO, you will handle correspondence with customers, regulatory bodies, and internal departments. The examiners want to see if you can:
- Write formally and politely
- Maintain logical flow and structure
- Use error-free grammar
- Convey the purpose clearly and concisely
In NIACL AO 2025, letter writing typically carries 8–10 marks. Scoring above 7/10 is achievable with practice and adherence to format.
2. Types of Letters Asked in the Exam
NIACL AO mostly focuses on formal/business letters but you should also be ready for informal letters.
a) Formal Letters – Written to:
- Bank Managers
- Government authorities
- Editors of newspapers
- Company HR/Branch Managers
b) Informal Letters – Written to:
- Friends
- Relatives
- Mentors
Exam Tip:
Formal letters are far more common (70–80% of past papers). So, mastering the official tone is crucial.
3. Marking Criteria in NIACL AO
Your marks depend on:
| Criteria | Weightage (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Format adherence | 20% |
| Content relevance | 30% |
| Language & grammar | 25% |
| Clarity & conciseness | 15% |
| Presentation (neatness) | 10% |
Key insight: A perfect format with irrelevant content will still score poorly. Balance form and substance.
4. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Wrong format – Skipping date, subject line, or salutation in formal letters.
- Casual tone in formal letters – Avoid slang or abbreviations like “u” instead of “you.”
- Overly long introductions – Get to the point quickly.
- Ignoring word limit – NIACL AO letters are typically 150–200 words.
- Grammar errors – Subject-verb disagreement, wrong tenses, or missing articles.
- No closure – Forgetting “Yours faithfully/sincerely” in formal letters.
5. Step-by-Step Approach to Letter Writing in the Exam
Step 1: Understand the purpose
Read the prompt carefully. Identify:
- Type (formal/informal)
- Audience
- Main purpose (complaint, request, invitation, suggestion)
Step 2: Draft a quick outline
Spend 1–2 minutes jotting down key points you’ll cover in each paragraph.
Step 3: Follow the correct format
Stick to NIACL AO-friendly structure (explained in formats section below).
Step 4: Write clearly and concisely
One idea per paragraph. Avoid overloading sentences.
Step 5: Review & proofread
Last 2–3 minutes: Check for spelling, grammar, and missing components.
6. Format for a Formal Letter
Sender’s Address
Date (DD Month YYYY)
Receiver’s Name/Designation
Organization Name
Address
Subject: [One-line summary of purpose]
Salutation: Sir/Madam,
Body:
- Introduction – State purpose briefly.
- Main Content – Explain issue/details logically.
- Conclusion – Summarize and request action.
Complimentary Close: Yours faithfully/sincerely,
(Signature)
Name
Example Layout:
123, Park Street,
Kolkata – 700016
15 August 2025
The Branch Manager
Canara Bank
Kolkata Main Branch
Kolkata – 700001
Subject: Request for issuance of duplicate passbook
Sir/Madam,
I am writing to request the issuance of a duplicate passbook for my savings account (A/c No. XXXXX). My original passbook was misplaced during travel.
Kindly arrange to issue a new passbook at the earliest. I am ready to pay the applicable charges.
Thank you for your assistance.
Yours faithfully,
[Signature]
Rahul Sen
7. Format for an Informal Letter
Sender’s Address
Date
Salutation: Dear [Name],
Body:
- Opening – Warm greeting or reference to recent contact.
- Main Content – Discuss main subject.
- Closing – Friendly sign-off.
Complimentary Close: Yours lovingly/affectionately,
Name
Example Layout:
45, Green Avenue,
Delhi – 110092
15 August 2025
Dear Amit,
I hope this letter finds you well. It’s been a long time since we last met, and I wanted to share some exciting news with you.
I have been selected for the NIACL AO interview round! Your guidance during my preparation has been invaluable.
Looking forward to catching up soon.
Yours affectionately,
Priya
8. Scoring Tips for NIACL AO Letter Writing
- Memorize formats – Saves time under pressure.
- Keep it formal unless clearly told otherwise – Even in informal letters, maintain grammatical correctness.
- Use exam-friendly vocabulary – Words like “Kindly,” “I request,” “I regret to inform,” instead of casual phrases.
- Maintain word limit – 150–200 words ensures conciseness.
- Avoid spelling errors – They reduce marks disproportionately.
- Practice with timer – Train your brain to think & write within 15 minutes.
9. Sample Topics for NIACL AO 2025
Formal Letter Topics:
- Complaint to the insurance company regarding delayed claim settlement.
- Letter to the editor about increasing road accidents in your city.
- Request to HR for work-from-home option due to health reasons.
- Application to bank for educational loan details.
Informal Letter Topics:
- Letter to your friend congratulating them on a new job.
- Letter to a relative describing your recent vacation.
- Letter to a mentor thanking them for guidance.
10. Model Formal Letter (Exam Level)
Topic: Complaint to the insurance company about delay in claim settlement.
12, Lake View Road,
Ranchi – 834001
10 August 2025
The Manager – Claims Department
New India Assurance Co. Ltd.
Ranchi Regional Office
Ranchi – 834001
Subject: Complaint regarding delay in claim settlement (Policy No. XXXXX)
Sir/Madam,
I wish to bring to your attention the inordinate delay in the settlement of my motor insurance claim, Policy No. XXXXX, filed on 15 June 2025. Despite repeated follow-ups and submission of all required documents, the claim remains unsettled for nearly two months.
The delay has caused significant inconvenience as the vehicle is essential for my daily commute. I request you to expedite the process and confirm the expected date of settlement.
I look forward to your prompt response.
Yours faithfully,
[Signature]
Anuj Sharma
11. Revision Checklist Before Submitting
- Is the format correct for the letter type?
- Is the tone appropriate for the recipient?
- Is the content relevant to the topic?
- Is grammar/spelling error-free?
- Is the letter within the word limit?
- Is handwriting (in offline exam) neat and legible?
12. Final Words
Letter writing for NIACL AO 2025 is not just a test of language — it’s a test of professionalism. By mastering the correct format, maintaining relevance, and practicing under timed conditions, you can easily turn this section into a scoring advantage.
Pro tip: Practice 10–15 past paper topics before the exam. When you sit for the actual paper, your brain will already have a bank of structures and vocabulary to draw from — saving time and boosting confidence.