In the CBSE Class 12 English Core examination, students write a letter based on verbal or visual input. The prescribed types include a letter to the editor, expressing an opinion or suggesting solutions to a public issue, and a job application with bio-data or a résumé.
The 2026–27 syllabus specifies approximately 120–150 words and awards 5 marks for this question. Check the current official syllabus and the instructions on your question paper.
Official source: CBSE English Core syllabus, 2026–27 (PDF).
1. CBSE marking scheme: 5 marks
| Assessment area | Marks | What is assessed |
|---|---|---|
| Format | 1 | Appropriate layout and required elements. |
| Organisation of ideas | 1 | Logical order, clear paragraphs and coherence. |
| Content | 2 | Relevant details and coverage of the prompt. |
| Accuracy | 1 | Grammar, spelling and punctuation. |
These components are listed in the official 2026–27 syllabus. Correct format alone is not enough: the letter must address the prompt and express ideas clearly.
2. Letter to the editor: format
- Sender’s address
- Date
- The Editor, newspaper name and city
- Subject line
- Salutation: Dear Sir/Madam
- Opening: identify the issue and purpose
- Middle: explain causes, effects and relevant details
- Conclusion: offer practical suggestions and request action
- Complimentary close and name
Use a formal, factual and constructive tone. A direct opening is fine; elaborate phrases such as “through the columns of your esteemed newspaper” are optional, not compulsory.
3. Job application: format
- Sender’s address and date
- Receiver’s designation, organisation and address
- Subject: Application for the post of …
- Salutation
- Opening: identify the advertised post and source of advertisement
- Middle: mention relevant qualifications, skills and experience from the prompt
- Closing: refer to the enclosed bio-data/résumé and express willingness to attend an interview
- Complimentary close, name and enclosure note
Keep the application letter concise. Do not repeat a full career history in the letter when it can be shown in the separate résumé.
4. Bio-data or résumé: what to include
Use the information provided in the question. Follow its wording—“bio-data” or “résumé”—and present the information clearly.
| Section | Possible details |
|---|---|
| Contact details | Name, address, phone and email, where supplied or required. |
| Education | Examination/degree, board or university, year and marks/grade. |
| Relevant experience | Employment, internship, training or volunteering relevant to the post. |
| Skills | Skills relevant to the advertised role. |
| References | Include only if the prompt asks for them or supplies them. |
5. Solved model letters
These are original practice examples. Names, addresses and situations are fictional. Word counts are approximate and exclude the address, date, subject, salutation and closing.
Model 1: Poorly maintained public parks
Question: Write to the editor of a national daily highlighting the poor condition of public parks and suggesting improvements.
22, Green Apartments
Pune
25 October 2026
The Editor
The Indian Express
Pune
Subject: Poor maintenance of public parks
Dear Sir/Madam,
I wish to draw the attention of the municipal authorities to the deteriorating condition of public parks in our locality. The walking paths are damaged, litter is scattered across the grounds, and several swings and slides are broken. Inadequate lighting also makes the parks unsafe after sunset.
These spaces are important for children, senior citizens and residents who need a safe place to exercise. Their neglect discourages public use and creates unhygienic conditions. Residents’ complaints have so far produced little improvement.
The authorities should arrange regular cleaning, repair playground equipment, install adequate lights and inspect the parks periodically. A public helpline could help residents report problems and track action taken. I hope your newspaper will draw attention to this issue and encourage prompt remedial measures.
Yours faithfully,
Renu Mathur
A concerned resident
Letter body: approximately 140 words.
Model 2: Reckless driving by delivery riders
Question: Write to the editor about reckless driving by delivery riders, explaining the risks and suggesting solutions.
B-101, Prestige Towers
Bengaluru
25 October 2026
The Editor
The Deccan Herald
Bengaluru
Subject: Unsafe driving by delivery riders
Dear Sir/Madam,
I wish to highlight the growing problem of unsafe driving by delivery riders in our locality. Some riders speed through residential streets, ride on footpaths and ignore traffic signals while trying to meet delivery deadlines. This behaviour puts pedestrians, particularly children and older people, at risk.
Delivery services are important, but speed should never take priority over public safety. Companies should train riders in road safety and avoid performance targets that encourage dangerous driving. Traffic police should enforce existing rules consistently, especially near schools, markets and crossings.
I request the authorities and delivery platforms to work together on this issue. Public awareness, safer delivery targets and fair enforcement can help prevent accidents without disrupting essential services. I hope your newspaper will bring this concern to the attention of the relevant authorities.
Yours faithfully,
Rohan Gupta
A resident
Letter body: approximately 143 words.
Model 3: Water conservation
Question: Write to the editor suggesting ways to conserve water and address water scarcity in your city.
12, Malabar Hill
Mumbai
25 October 2026
The Editor
The Times of India
Mumbai
Subject: Need for effective water conservation
Dear Sir/Madam,
I wish to draw public attention to the need for conserving water in our city. During periods of shortage, households and communities face inconvenience, yet water is often wasted through leaking taps, careless washing and inefficient use.
Residents can help by repairing leaks, using buckets instead of running hoses, reusing suitable household water for gardening and avoiding unnecessary wastage. Housing societies should check plumbing regularly and educate residents about responsible consumption.
The municipal authorities should repair leaking public pipelines promptly, promote rainwater harvesting where feasible and publish clear guidance on conservation. Schools and local organisations can also conduct awareness campaigns. Water security requires both reliable public infrastructure and responsible daily habits. I hope your newspaper will encourage residents and officials to take practical action before shortages become more severe.
Yours faithfully,
A. D’Souza
A concerned resident
Letter body: approximately 142 words.
Model 4: Application for a school library assistant
Question: You are Sana Khan of 18, Ashok Vihar, Jaipur. Apply for a Library Assistant vacancy. Use these details: Class XII (2026), good English and basic computer skills, and two years volunteering in your school library.
18, Ashok Vihar
Jaipur
25 October 2026
The Manager
City Learning Centre
Jaipur
Subject: Application for the post of Library Assistant
Dear Sir/Madam,
With reference to your advertisement for the post of Library Assistant, I wish to apply for the position. I completed Class XII in 2026 and have a strong interest in reading, organising books and helping students locate learning resources.
For the past two years, I have volunteered in my school library, where I assisted with shelving books, maintaining records and helping students. I also have basic computer skills and communicate clearly in English. These experiences have prepared me to support the daily work of your learning centre.
I am enclosing my résumé for your consideration and would welcome an opportunity to discuss my suitability for the post. Thank you for considering my application.
Yours faithfully,
Sana Khan
Encl.: Résumé
Letter body: approximately 132 words.
Enclosure: Résumé
| Name | Sana Khan |
|---|---|
| Address | 18, Ashok Vihar, Jaipur |
| Education | Class XII, 2026 |
| Experience | School Library Volunteer, two years |
| Skills | Basic computer skills, English communication, book shelving and record maintenance |
Illustrative résumé only. In an examination, use the qualifications and experience supplied in the question.
Model 5: Application for an office assistant trainee
Question: Apply for a trainee office assistant position. Use a fictional Class XII candidate profile with basic computer skills and school-level experience organising records.
31, Shastri Nagar
Lucknow
25 October 2026
The HR Officer
Northstar Services
Lucknow
Subject: Application for the post of Office Assistant Trainee
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing in response to your advertisement for an Office Assistant Trainee. I am a Class XII student with an interest in office administration and the basic computer skills required for routine clerical work.
During school activities, I have helped organise event lists, maintain simple records and prepare documents using word-processing software. These tasks have strengthened my attention to detail, teamwork and ability to complete assigned work on time. I am willing to learn your office procedures and follow instructions carefully.
I have enclosed a brief résumé for your consideration. I would be grateful for an opportunity to attend an interview and explain how I could contribute to your team. Thank you for your time.
Yours faithfully,
Arjun Mehta
Encl.: Résumé
Letter body: approximately 130 words.
6. Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing points from the prompt: identify the issue, causes, effects and requested suggestions before writing.
- Ignoring the word limit: practise a focused letter of approximately 120–150 words.
- Mixing the letter and résumé: present the résumé as a separate enclosure when required.
- Inventing details: do not add unsupported degrees, marks, experience or statistics.
- Using ornate phrases excessively: formal writing should be clear and courteous.
- Writing one long paragraph: separate purpose, supporting details and conclusion.
- Forgetting format elements: check address, date, receiver, subject, salutation and closing.
- Using the wrong tone: be constructive in a letter to the editor and professional in a job application.
7. Final exam checklist
- Have I identified the correct letter type?
- Have I included the required format elements?
- Have I addressed every important point in the question?
- Is the letter approximately 120–150 words?
- Are the ideas logically organised into paragraphs?
- Is the tone formal and appropriate?
- Have I checked grammar, spelling and punctuation?
- If a résumé is required, have I kept it separate and used only relevant details?
For the latest requirements, consult the official CBSE Academic website and the syllabus applicable to your examination session. This guide is a learning resource, not an official CBSE marking key.
