12 Tips For Effective Letters

Here is a quick, easy way to analyze your own letters and determine if they are effective. Analyze your next letter with the following check list.

Can you answer YES to these questions?

1. Is your letter clear and easy to read, assuring the readers quick understanding with the minimum of effort on his/her part?
2. If your message is intended to induce action, does it stress the readers interests and point out the benefits to him/her?
3. Is the tone of your letter courteous and friendly, suggesting that you enjoyed writing it?
4. Is your message well organized, containing all the necessary facts or information without irrelevant details?
5. Does your letter show consideration for the reader by revealing a genuine desire to be helpful?
6. Is your letter neat and attractive as the result of proper layout on the sheet, clean-cut typing, and short paragraphs?

Can you answer NO to the following questions?

1. Does your letter contain trite, outmoded expressions, such as; contents duly noted, kindly be advised, pursuant to yours of recent date, etc?
2. Are the words, I, we, us, and our used too often, indicating too much emphasis on your own interests and point of view?
3. Does your letter contain any superfluous words that contribute nothing to the sentences in which they appear?
4. Are any of your statements vague or ambiguous, and therefore liable to confuse the reader?
.5. Does your letter contain any tactless words that carry connotations unpleasant to the reader?
6. Is there anything about your message that gives it the tone or appearance of a form letter?

About the Author

Writer/Speaker/Consultant, Kathy Thompson, provides various writing/administrative services. For a FREE report "How Your Face Reveals Your Health" send a blank email to; healthface@demandmail.com.

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