Guidelines for Writing Effective Memos

• Write the name of the recipient, your name, the subject, and the date on separate lines at the top.
• Begin with the most important information: depending on the memo’s purpose, you may have to provide background information, define the task or problem, or clarify the memo’s goal.
• Use your opening paragraph to focus on how the information you convey affects your readers.
• Focus each subsequent paragraph on one idea pertaining to the subject.
• Present information concisely and from the readers’ perspective.
• Emphasize exactly what you want readers to do and when.
• Use attachments for detailed supporting information.
• For print memos, initial your memo next to your name.
• Adjust your style and tone to fit your audience.
• Attempt to build goodwill in your conclusion.