Below are the basic rules of writing a good business letter or memorandum. They are followed by specific recommendations. Title each group of recommendations with the proper rule.

Date: 2015-10-07; view: 452.

RULES:

1.Spell the names right. 6.Be aware of how you finish your

letter.

2.Get the address right. 7.Highlight important words/points.

3.Include only one topic per letter. 8.Use standard English.

4.Be courteous and considerateof the reader. 9.Edit and rewrite.

5.Make the first sentence great. 10.Follow the seven c's.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Keep the reading time under 1.5 minutes. Rule ______

Know the purpose and write to that purpose.

***

Avoid "call if you have questions" types of endings. Rule ______

Can include a personal note if you are close friends.

***

Use underlining. Rule ______

Use boldface type

Use italics.

Use larger font sizes

Use ALL CAPS.

***

Avoid having all paragraphs the same length. Rule ______

Use short and varied sentences. Keep the average sentence length between 7 and 17 words.

Avoid jargon (terms that are highly technical and understood by only a few people).

Avoid flowery terms (e.g., magnificent, exceptional).

Use active voice.

***

Avoid telescoping sentences. Rule ______

Avoid incomplete sentences.

Use correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation.

***

If you can't find out any other way, call the office of the person to whom you are writing.

When in doubt, use Ms. -- don't guess a woman's marital status.

***

Let the reader know if the letter is a reply to their correspondence.

Get to the point. Rule _______

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Follow the guidelines for addressing envelopes from the U.S./ U.K. Postal Service.

Rule _______

***

Respect readers as people and professionals. Rule ______

Use praise but not flattery.

Don't exaggerate - maintain trust.

***

Each letter/memorandum should be: Rule ______

clear, concise, conversational, complete, constructive, correct.