Man is social by nature. Hence interaction and communication between human beings is quite natural. In
fact, it has become unavoidable. We may share views either orally or in writing.
We hold many social functions such as celebrations of birthday, engagement, wedding, marriage
anniversary; appointment, promotion. Invitations form an important part of social dealings. An invitation is
a request to an individual to come or go somewhere, or to do something.
Invitations can be both formal as well as informal. Formal invitations are formal letters. They can be
printed on cards or can be drafted in the form of social letters.
Formal invitations can be of two types:
1. Printed invitation cards inviting guests to be present on a particular occasion. Such invitations do
not include the name of the addressee.
2. Formal typed (handwritten) letter addressed to a VIP invited to preside over a social, cultural and
educational function. In these invitations to VIPs the name of the addressee appears prominently.
Formal invitations are formal and polite, pleasant and courteous.
Informal invitations generally take the shape and form of personal letters. We use these to invite our
friends, relatives and dear ones with whom we have intimate, personal and friendly relations.
In informal invitations the tone and treatment is relaxed, informal and friendly.
A. FORMAL INVITATIONS
Main Characteristics:
1. A formal invitation is normally a single sentence presentation in third person.
2. Formal invitations are generally printed invitation cards. We use them to invite guests on some
auspicious occasion like birthdays, weddings, inauguration of shops, houses, etc.
3. The invitation answers the questions who, whom, when, where, what time and for what, i.e.,
o the occasion
o name(s) of the invitee
o name(s) of the host
o date, time and venue
4. The other details include name, designation and address of the organiser, sponsor or host or the
name(s) of the chief guest or special invitees, in case of an official invitation.
5. Printed formal invitations don’t include the name of the addressee.
6. Invitations to VIP to preside over a function do carry the name of VIP prominently.
7. Length as per CBSE guidelines is limited to 50 words.
I. PRINTED FORMAL INVITATIONS
SOLVED QUESTIONS
