Example Formal Letters
💡 Six Thinking Hats Structure:
⚪ White Hat: Facts, information, details, background
🔴 Red Hat: Your feelings, concerns, hopes, emotions
⚫️ Black Hat: Potential problems, risks, challenges
🟡 Yellow Hat: Benefits, positive outcomes, opportunities
🔵 Blue Hat: Practical steps, specific actions, concrete plans
🟢 Green Hat: Creative solutions, innovative ideas
📝 Different Hat Arrangements:
You can mix hats in paragraphs, change order, use some hats multiple times, or skip certain hats depending on the situation!
Example 1: Inquiry Letter - Standard Order - One hat per paragraph in sequence
123 Education Road
Hong Kong
15th March 2024
Principal
ABC Secondary School
456 School Street
Hong Kong
Subject: Inquiry about Summer English Course
Dear Principal,
⚪ WHITE HAT (Facts): I am writing to inquire about the summer English course that your school offers for secondary students. I am a Form 5 student at XYZ Secondary School and I am interested in improving my English language skills during the summer break. I would like to know the course schedule, duration, fees, and requirements for enrollment.
🔴 RED HAT (Feelings): I am very enthusiastic about the opportunity to enhance my English proficiency and I believe your school's program would be perfect for my needs. I am particularly excited about the prospect of learning in a structured environment with experienced teachers.
⚫️ BLACK HAT (Concerns): I am concerned about whether the course level would be appropriate for my current English standard, and I worry about the possibility of the course being too advanced or too basic for my needs. I also need to ensure that the schedule fits with my family's summer plans.
🟡 YELLOW HAT (Benefits): I believe that participating in this course would significantly improve my English skills and help me prepare for the DSE examination. It would also provide me with valuable learning experiences and help me build confidence in using English in academic and social contexts.
🔵 BLUE HAT (Practical steps): I would like to schedule a visit to your school to learn more about the course and meet with the English teachers. I am also willing to take a placement test to determine the appropriate course level for me. Please let me know the application deadline and required documents.
🟢 GREEN HAT (Creative ideas): I would be interested in any special activities or projects that the course offers, such as English drama, debate, or creative writing workshops. I am also open to participating in cultural exchange activities if available.
I look forward to your response and hope to hear from you soon.
Yours sincerely,
Chan Ming
Phone: 9876-5432
Email: chanming@email.com
Example 2: Recommendation Letter - Two Hats Mixed - Combining two hats in each paragraph
456 Teacher Avenue
Hong Kong
20th March 2024
Admissions Committee
Hong Kong University
789 University Road
Hong Kong
Subject: Letter of Recommendation for Student Chan Wai Kit
Dear Admissions Committee,
⚪🔴 WHITE + RED HAT (Facts + Feelings): I am writing to strongly recommend Chan Wai Kit for admission to your Computer Science program. I have been Chan's mathematics teacher for the past two years, and I can confidently say that he is one of the most dedicated and talented students I have ever taught. I am genuinely impressed by his academic excellence and his passion for learning, which makes me genuinely excited about his potential for success at your university.
⚫️🟡 BLACK + YELLOW HAT (Challenges + Benefits): Although Chan faced significant challenges balancing his studies with family responsibilities, he consistently demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination. His ability to overcome obstacles while maintaining excellent academic performance shows his strong character and potential for success. I believe that Chan's admission to your program would not only benefit him personally but would also contribute to the academic excellence of your institution.
🔵🟢 BLUE + GREEN HAT (Practical + Creative Solutions): Chan has consistently achieved top grades in mathematics and has shown exceptional problem-solving abilities. He has also demonstrated leadership skills as the president of our school's mathematics club, where he organized innovative learning activities and peer tutoring programs. I am confident that he will bring the same level of dedication and creativity to your university community.
I strongly recommend Chan Wai Kit for admission to your Computer Science program.
Yours sincerely,
Dr. Lee Siu Ming
Mathematics Teacher
ABC Secondary School
Phone: 9123-4567
Example 3: Request Letter - Two Body Paragraphs - Each with 3 hats (White+Red+Black, then Yellow+Blue+Green)
789 Student Street
Hong Kong
25th March 2024
Librarian
Central Public Library
123 Library Road
Hong Kong
Subject: Request for Extended Library Access
Dear Librarian,
⚪🔴⚫️ WHITE + RED + BLACK HAT (Facts + Feelings + Concerns): I am writing to request extended access to the library's study facilities during the upcoming examination period. As a Form 6 student preparing for the DSE examination, I need a quiet and conducive environment for intensive study. I am deeply concerned about the limited study hours available, as the current closing time of 8:00 PM is insufficient for my preparation needs. This limitation is particularly problematic during the crucial final months before the examination, when I need to maximize my study time.
🟡🔵🟢 YELLOW + BLUE + GREEN HAT (Benefits + Practical + Creative Solutions): Extended library access would greatly benefit all students preparing for important examinations and would demonstrate the library's commitment to supporting education. I propose extending the closing time to 10:00 PM during examination periods, with proper security measures in place. I would also suggest implementing a student study group booking system and providing additional study resources such as past examination papers and reference materials to better serve the student community.
I would appreciate your consideration of this request and look forward to your response.
Yours sincerely,
Wong Mei Ling
Phone: 9876-1234
Example 4: Invitation Letter - Different Hat Combination - Red+White+Yellow (what could be), then Black+Blue+Green
456 Community Center
Hong Kong
28th March 2024
Principal
ABC Secondary School
789 Education Road
Hong Kong
Subject: Invitation to Career Guidance Workshop
Dear Principal,
🔴⚪🟡 RED + WHITE + YELLOW HAT (Feelings + Facts + Benefits): I am writing to invite your school to participate in our upcoming Career Guidance Workshop for secondary students. I am genuinely excited about the opportunity to help students make informed career choices, and I believe this workshop would be extremely valuable for your students. The workshop will be held on 15th April 2024 at our community center, featuring presentations from professionals in various fields including technology, healthcare, and business. This event would provide your students with valuable insights into different career paths and help them make informed decisions about their future education and career choices.
⚫️🔵🟢 BLACK + BLUE + GREEN HAT (Concerns + Practical + Creative Solutions): I understand that scheduling such events can be challenging for schools, but I am confident that we can work together to make this workshop accessible to your students. The workshop will run from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, and we can arrange transportation if needed. I also propose organizing follow-up sessions and creating a mentorship program where students can connect with professionals in their areas of interest. Additionally, we could establish a career guidance resource center at your school to provide ongoing support for students.
I look forward to your positive response and the opportunity to collaborate with your school.
Yours sincerely,
Lee Ka Man
Community Center Manager
Phone: 9123-7890
Example 5: Thank You Letter - Balanced Structure - White+Red+Black, then Yellow+Blue+Green with different intro/ending
321 Gratitude Avenue
Hong Kong
30th March 2024
Manager
Golden Dragon Restaurant
555 Food Street
Hong Kong
Subject: Thank You for Excellent Service
Dear Manager,
⚪🔴⚫️ WHITE + RED + BLACK HAT (Facts + Feelings + What could have gone wrong): I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for the exceptional service I received at your restaurant on 28th March 2024. The food was delicious, the atmosphere was welcoming, and your staff, particularly our waiter Tony, provided outstanding service throughout our meal. I was genuinely impressed by the attention to detail and the warm hospitality shown to my family. This experience could have been just another ordinary dinner, but your team made it truly memorable and special.
🟡🔵🟢 YELLOW + BLUE + GREEN HAT (Benefits + Practical + Creative Solutions): Your excellent service has not only satisfied our immediate needs but has also created a lasting positive impression that will bring us back to your restaurant. I plan to recommend your restaurant to friends and family, and I will definitely return for future celebrations. I would also like to suggest that you consider implementing a customer feedback system to capture more detailed responses from satisfied customers like myself, which could help you maintain and improve your already excellent service standards.
Thank you once again for making our dining experience so enjoyable.
Yours sincerely,
Chan Wai Kit
Phone: 9876-5432
Writing Tasks
Task 1: University Inquiry Letter
You want to apply to a university abroad and need to write an inquiry letter asking about admission requirements, application deadlines, and scholarship opportunities.
Use Six Thinking Hats structure:
- ⚪ White Hat: Your academic background, intended program, specific questions
- 🔴 Red Hat: Your enthusiasm and passion for studying abroad
- ⚫️ Black Hat: Concerns about admission requirements and competition
- 🟡 Yellow Hat: How studying at this university will benefit your future
- 🔵 Blue Hat: Specific information you need and next steps
- 🟢 Green Hat: Creative ways to strengthen your application
Task 2: Job Reference Letter
You need to write a reference letter for a former colleague who is applying for a new job. You want to recommend them highly.
Use Six Thinking Hats structure:
- ⚪ White Hat: Specific examples of their work performance and achievements
- 🔴 Red Hat: Your genuine confidence in their abilities
- ⚫️ Black Hat: Any challenges they faced and how they overcame them
- 🟡 Yellow Hat: How they will benefit the new organization
- 🔵 Blue Hat: Specific skills and qualities that make them suitable
- 🟢 Green Hat: Unique contributions they can make to the new role
Task 3: Event Invitation Letter
You are organizing a charity fundraising event and need to write a formal invitation letter to local business owners asking them to participate.
Use Six Thinking Hats structure:
- ⚪ White Hat: Event details, date, time, location, purpose
- 🔴 Red Hat: Your passion for the cause and excitement about the event
- ⚫️ Black Hat: The serious need for community support
- 🟡 Yellow Hat: How their participation will benefit the community
- 🔵 Blue Hat: Specific ways they can contribute and participate
- 🟢 Green Hat: Creative partnership opportunities
Task 4: Library Resource Request
You want to request that your school library purchase new books and resources for your subject area. Write a formal request letter to the librarian.
Use Six Thinking Hats structure:
- ⚪ White Hat: Specific books and resources you need, current library collection
- 🔴 Red Hat: Your enthusiasm for learning and research
- ⚫️ Black Hat: Current limitations and gaps in the library collection
- 🟡 Yellow Hat: How new resources will benefit all students
- 🔵 Blue Hat: Specific titles, budget considerations, implementation plan
- 🟢 Green Hat: Creative ways to fund and organize the new resources
Task 5: Internship Application Letter
You want to apply for a summer internship at a company. Write a formal letter expressing your interest and qualifications.
Use Six Thinking Hats structure:
- ⚪ White Hat: Your academic background, relevant skills, availability
- 🔴 Red Hat: Your genuine interest in the company and industry
- ⚫️ Black Hat: Your limited experience but eagerness to learn
- 🟡 Yellow Hat: How the internship will benefit both you and the company
- 🔵 Blue Hat: Your specific goals and commitment to the internship
- 🟢 Green Hat: Creative ideas you can bring to the company
Task 6: Community Service Request
You want to organize a community service project and need to write a letter to the local government requesting permission and support.
Use Six Thinking Hats structure:
- ⚪ White Hat: Project details, timeline, resources needed, community impact
- 🔴 Red Hat: Your passion for community service and helping others
- ⚫️ Black Hat: Current community problems that need addressing
- 🟡 Yellow Hat: How the project will improve the community
- 🔵 Blue Hat: Specific permissions and support you need
- 🟢 Green Hat: Innovative approaches to community service
Task 7: Scholarship Application Letter
You want to apply for a scholarship to study abroad. Write a formal letter explaining why you deserve the scholarship.
Use Six Thinking Hats structure:
- ⚪ White Hat: Your academic achievements, financial need, intended program
- 🔴 Red Hat: Your passion for your field of study and career goals
- ⚫️ Black Hat: Financial challenges that prevent you from studying abroad
- 🟡 Yellow Hat: How the scholarship will help you achieve your dreams
- 🔵 Blue Hat: Your specific plans for using the scholarship
- 🟢 Green Hat: How you will give back to the community after graduation
Task 8: Meeting Request Letter
You want to request a meeting with your school principal to discuss improving student facilities. Write a formal request letter.
Use Six Thinking Hats structure:
- ⚪ White Hat: Current facility conditions, specific improvements needed
- 🔴 Red Hat: Your concern for student welfare and learning environment
- ⚫️ Black Hat: Problems with current facilities affecting students
- 🟡 Yellow Hat: How improvements will benefit all students
- 🔵 Blue Hat: Specific meeting agenda and proposed solutions
- 🟢 Green Hat: Creative funding and implementation ideas
Task 9: Research Collaboration Letter
You want to collaborate with a university professor on a research project. Write a formal letter proposing the collaboration.
Use Six Thinking Hats structure:
- ⚪ White Hat: Your research background, project proposal, timeline
- 🔴 Red Hat: Your enthusiasm for research and academic collaboration
- ⚫️ Black Hat: Challenges in conducting research independently
- 🟡 Yellow Hat: How collaboration will benefit both parties
- 🔵 Blue Hat: Specific collaboration terms and expectations
- 🟢 Green Hat: Innovative research methodologies and approaches
Task 10: Thank You Letter
You want to write a formal thank you letter to someone who has helped you significantly, such as a teacher, mentor, or community leader.
Use Six Thinking Hats structure:
- ⚪ White Hat: Specific ways they helped you, dates, examples
- 🔴 Red Hat: Your genuine gratitude and appreciation
- ⚫️ Black Hat: How difficult things would have been without their help
- 🟡 Yellow Hat: How their help has positively impacted your life
- 🔵 Blue Hat: How you plan to pay it forward
- 🟢 Green Hat: Creative ways to show your appreciation
Task 11: Permission Request Letter
You want to request permission to use a public space for a student event. Write a formal letter to the relevant authority.
Use Six Thinking Hats structure:
- ⚪ White Hat: Event details, location, date, expected attendance
- 🔴 Red Hat: Your excitement about organizing this event
- ⚫️ Black Hat: Potential concerns about noise, safety, cleanup
- 🟡 Yellow Hat: How the event will benefit the community
- 🔵 Blue Hat: Specific permissions needed and safety measures
- 🟢 Green Hat: Creative ways to minimize impact and maximize benefits
Task 12: Information Request Letter
You want to request information about a government program or service. Write a formal letter asking for detailed information.
Use Six Thinking Hats structure:
- ⚪ White Hat: Specific information you need, your situation, eligibility
- 🔴 Red Hat: Your interest in the program and its benefits
- ⚫️ Black Hat: Concerns about eligibility and application process
- 🟡 Yellow Hat: How the program will help you achieve your goals
- 🔵 Blue Hat: Specific questions you need answered
- 🟢 Green Hat: Additional services or support you might need
Task 13: Recommendation Request Letter
You want to ask a teacher or supervisor to write a recommendation letter for you. Write a formal request letter.
Use Six Thinking Hats structure:
- ⚪ White Hat: What you're applying for, deadline, your qualifications
- 🔴 Red Hat: Your respect for their opinion and expertise
- ⚫️ Black Hat: Your concern about imposing on their time
- 🟡 Yellow Hat: How their recommendation will strengthen your application
- 🔵 Blue Hat: Specific information you can provide to help them
- 🟢 Green Hat: Ways to make the process easier for them
Task 14: Proposal Letter
You want to propose a new student club or organization to your school administration. Write a formal proposal letter.
Use Six Thinking Hats structure:
- ⚪ White Hat: Club purpose, activities, membership, resources needed
- 🔴 Red Hat: Your passion for the club's mission and activities
- ⚫️ Black Hat: Current gaps in student activities and opportunities
- 🟡 Yellow Hat: How the club will benefit the school community
- 🔵 Blue Hat: Specific implementation plan and requirements
- 🟢 Green Hat: Creative club activities and community outreach
Task 15: Follow-up Letter
You want to write a follow-up letter after a job interview or meeting to thank them and reiterate your interest.
Use Six Thinking Hats structure:
- ⚪ White Hat: Interview details, key points discussed, your qualifications
- 🔴 Red Hat: Your continued enthusiasm and interest
- ⚫️ Black Hat: Any concerns or questions that arose during the interview
- 🟡 Yellow Hat: How you can contribute to their organization
- 🔵 Blue Hat: Next steps and timeline for decision
- 🟢 Green Hat: Additional ideas or solutions you can offer