Letters, emails and formal messages.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH BEFORE WRITING
Who reads it What you want them to do What they need to know to do it
WHAT TO PUT FIRST
The purpose.
Not context, not pleasantries beyond a line.
WHY
Recipients decide within seconds whether to continue.
WHAT A SUBJECT LINE SHOULD DO
State the matter specifically.
WHAT STRUCTURE WORKS
Purpose Necessary detail What you are asking for, and by when Close
WHAT TO MAKE UNMISTAKABLE
Any action required, by whom, and when.
WHAT TO KEEP
Short.
WHAT TO ADJUST
Formality, to the recipient and context.
WHAT TO CHECK BEFORE SENDING
The recipient Attachments Names and titles, spelled correctly That the tone reads as intended
THAT LAST POINT
Written messages read colder than intended, particularly when brief.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT SOMETHING SENSITIVE
Speak, then confirm in writing.
WHAT TO NEVER SEND
Anything written while angry.
