Poem First comes the Return Address (mine) and date, my name does NOT belong. Second is the Mailing Address (theirs): Name, Title, Company, and all. Next is Salutation, “Dear Mr./Mrs. “ then colon (:). The comma (,) is a No-No. It’s not enough to go on. In the Body of the letter there are paragraphs to write. More than one is preferable; two or three’s all right. First you do a Greeting, to tell them who you are.

Then why you are writing. You’re doing great so far. You can also include your opinion, or something you’d like to share. In your concluding paragraph, include anything else that’s there. Include all mentioned information given on the assignment sheet. Then add personal touches, to make your work unique.

The closing: “Sincerely,” or “Yours truly,”; whichever one you choose. Here, don’t forget, the comma, it’s something you must include. Then your signature and printed name to let them know it’s you. Everything at the LEFT margin, ALL THE WAY through. ~written for grade 9 English/Language Arts students by T. Sly ~

* * * * * * * * * * * * This poem outlines the steps of the business letter in the order they should appear for proper format. If you memorize this poem, going into your achievement test, you should have something handy to refer back to to remind you where everything goes, and what should be included to do well.