Writing Tips
Guidelines for Writing Letters and Memos
- Two most important rules: know your subject and know your readers
- Focus on the main point - in the subject line and in the first line of the text
- Use simple, familiar words -- instead of long words: use "effective" instead of "efficacious; use "city" instead of "metropolis"
- For long memos and letter: do a first draft, then revise
- For long memos and letters: do not start at the beginning, start with what you know best
- While writing think: "If I were the reader would I know what the writer expects me to do after reading this memo or letter?"
- Logical order of main points: chronological; from most important points(s) to least important; from general to the specific; conflict and solution; pros and cons; or alphabetical
- Top concern -- that letters are too long, too numerous, routed to too many people and too self-serving
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