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1) When I was taking an English course, the teacher once corrected me saying:

You shouldn't write don't, write do not!

Since then, I only write don't in informal cases: email to a friend, here, etc.
Do you think is it all right to write don't in a cover letter (for instance)?
Shall we write Do not if we want to make a good impression as saying that we have an excellent level of English, or all of this doesn't matter?

2) Another question is about the usage of Would like and 'd like. In grammars and websites about English language on internet they always say:

I Would like = I'd like

Then, when is the time to give examples they use 'd like in most cases.
E.g I'd like a cup of tea
Today I was doing a grammar exercise and the key answers usually have alternatives to include short forms - has not (or hasn't) etc. - but for would like there were not alternatives, the answer should be 'd like.
Is it old-fashioned to write:
I would like a cup of tea (?)

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  • Yes, in formal writing, you should avoid using contractions. The 'd may be would or had. 'I would like a cup of tea' is not old-fashioned; it is subjunctive.
    – shin
    Sep 12, 2015 at 19:02

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1) This question has been asked before

2) It's not always correct to avoid contractions (yes even in formal writing). A cautious and sensible approach to use of contractions is recommended. Here are some links that can help

http://www.writersdigest.com/editor-blogs/questions-and-quandaries/grammar/can-i-use-contractions-in-my-writing

http://www.vappingo.com/word-blog/when-is-it-okay-to-use-contractions-in-formal-writing/

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