Introduction
The letter writing section of the SBI PO 2025 Descriptive English paper plays a crucial role in your final score. Although it carries only 20 marks, this section is not to be underestimated. A well-structured and grammatically correct letter can significantly improve your chances of clearing the SBI PO Mains exam.
In this post, we will cover the best format for both formal and informal letters, the types of letters usually asked, and pro tips to help you write effectively under time pressure.
SBI PO 2025 Descriptive English: Letter Writing at a Glance
- Total Marks: 20
- Word Limit: 150–200 words
- Time Allotted (for entire Descriptive Test): 30 minutes (Essay + Letter)
- Mode: Online typing
- Types of Letters: Formal and Informal
Why Letter Writing is Important
- Real-life Skill: Bank officers regularly communicate with customers, authorities, and staff through letters and emails.
- Scoring Opportunity: With a fixed format and limited word count, letter writing is easier to master than essays.
- Reflects Communication Ability: Your ability to express thoughts clearly and politely is tested here.
Types of Letters Asked in SBI PO Exam
1. Formal Letters
Used for official communication. Tone: Professional and to the point.
Examples:
- Letter to the Bank Manager
- Letter to the Editor
- Letter to a Senior Officer or HR
- Letter to Government/Municipal Authority
2. Informal Letters
Used for personal communication. Tone: Friendly, conversational, yet respectful.
Examples:
- Letter to a friend or sibling
- Letter to parents
- Letter to a cousin or relative
Formal Letter Format (Highly Recommended for SBI PO 2025)
[Your Address]
[Date]
[Receiver’s Name/Designation]
[Organization Name]
[Address]
Subject: [One-line summary of the purpose]
Dear Sir/Madam,
[Paragraph 1: Introduce the reason for writing]
[Paragraph 2: Explain the issue/request with supporting details]
[Paragraph 3: Conclude politely, requesting appropriate action]
Thanking you,
Yours sincerely,
[Your Name]
Informal Letter Format
[Your Address]
[Date]
Dear [Name],
[Paragraph 1: Start with greetings and purpose of writing]
[Paragraph 2: Share updates, feelings, or important matters]
[Paragraph 3: End with warm regards and closing note]
With love,
[Your Name]
Sample Topics for SBI PO 2025 Letter Writing
Formal Letter Topics
- Write a letter to the bank manager requesting EMI restructuring.
- Write a letter to the municipal authority complaining about waterlogging in your area.
- Write a letter to the HR manager requesting a job transfer on medical grounds.
- Write a letter to the editor about rising cybercrime in banking.
- Write a letter to the electricity department about frequent power cuts.
Informal Letter Topics
- Write a letter to your friend suggesting career opportunities in banking.
- Write a letter to your younger sibling advising him/her on financial planning.
- Write a letter to your parents explaining your experience in a new city.
- Write a letter to your cousin about the importance of digital literacy.
- Write a letter to a friend who just cleared a competitive exam.
10 Pro Tips to Score High in SBI PO 2025 Letter Writing
1. Understand the Tone
- Formal: Respectful, neutral, and straight to the point.
- Informal: Friendly, warm, and conversational.
2. Use the Correct Format
Incorrect format = loss of marks. Stick to the modern structure and avoid outdated salutation like “Respected Sir.”
3. Stick to the Word Limit
Target 150–200 words. Too short = incomplete. Too long = time wastage.
4. Avoid Spelling and Grammar Mistakes
Proofread before submission. Typos or poor grammar may lead to heavy deductions.
5. Be Polite Yet Assertive
Don’t sound rude—even if you’re writing a complaint. Instead of blaming, highlight your concern tactfully.
6. Be Precise
Get to the point quickly. Examiners don’t want long-winded stories. Use short sentences and simple words.
7. Use Connectors
Words like “Therefore,” “Moreover,” “However,” and “In addition” improve flow and coherence.
8. Practice Typing
The exam is computer-based. Even if your content is good, slow typing can hold you back.
9. Revise Your Letter
Keep the last 1–2 minutes for proofreading. Small fixes can make a big difference.
10. Use Bank Whizz Evaluated Mocks
Practicing on your own is good, but feedback helps you improve. Try Bank Whizz’s Descriptive Package for letter evaluation and improvement.
Do’s and Don’ts
Do’s
- Follow a clean and consistent format
- Use proper punctuation and grammar
- Maintain paragraph separation
- Keep the tone consistent with letter type
Don’ts
- Don’t use SMS language or abbreviations like “u” or “bcz”
- Don’t use informal language in formal letters
- Don’t exceed the word limit
- Don’t copy memorized content—examiners can tell
Time Management Strategy
- Total Time for Descriptive Paper: 30 Minutes
- Suggested Time Split:
- Essay: 18–20 minutes
- Letter: 8–10 minutes
- Revision: 2 minutes
Tip: Start with whichever you’re more confident in. If you’re better at letters, begin with that—it sets a confident tone.
Practice Plan: 15 Days to Master Letter Writing
- Days 1–3: Learn format thoroughly and write one formal letter per day
- Days 4–6: Practice informal letters and get them reviewed
- Days 7–10: Mix topics and write 1 formal + 1 informal letter daily
- Days 11–13: Take timed mocks on Bank Whizz
- Days 14–15: Revise best answers, note common mistakes, fine-tune typing speed
How Bank Whizz Can Help You
- Expert-evaluated letters with personalized feedback
- Latest SBI PO letter topics with model answers
- Timed mock tests for Descriptive English
- Grammar & structure improvement tools
- Affordable plans for SBI PO 2025 aspirants
Check out the SBI PO 2025 Descriptive English Course at www.bankwhizz.in and boost your final score!
Conclusion
Letter writing is not just about grammar—it’s about clarity, tone, format, and relevance. With practice and a little guidance, scoring 18+ out of 20 is absolutely achievable.
Master the structure, write with purpose, and review before submitting. And remember, practice + feedback = success in SBI PO 2025 Descriptive English.