Writing Plan for Routine E- Mails and Memos Subject line. Summarize content. Opening. State the main idea. Body. Provide background information and explain the main idea. Closing. Request action, summarize message, or present closing though.
Writing the subject line Subject line should summarize the central idea and provide identification Written in abbreviated style without articles Doesn’t not need to be a complete sentence Doesn’t end with the period Good subject lines are specific, eye catching and talking (contain a verb form)
Reveal the main idea immediately Please review the following fours changes in our benefits package and let us know your preference by June 7.
Explaining clearly in the Body Arrange questions in logical order Group similar information together Use a separate paragraph for each topic Use bulleted lists, headings, and tables
Closing the message End the with action information, dates, or deadlines (Please submit your report by June 1) A summary of the message (This project sounds like a good idea) A closing though (Thanks for your help on this project)
Most memos and s can be divided into four groups T hose that inform T hose that request T hose that respond T hose that persuade The first three groups use the direct strategy. The fourth group uses the indirect strategy.