QUICK TIPS FOR E-MAILING
A PROFESSOR
SUBJECT LINE: MEANINGFUL & SPECIFIC | |||
“Wednesday Lighting Quiz” | |||
“Just Checking In” | |||
“Hi!” | |||
GREETING | |||
Start with “Dear Professor Last Name” | |||
Always spell your teacher’s name correctly | |||
“Yo, ‘Sup?” | |||
MESSAGE BODY | |||
Use complete sentences. | |||
Use “Please” and “Thank You.” | |||
Avoid text language, shortcuts, emojis, memes | |||
Avoid whimsical fonts or colors | |||
CONTENT | |||
Politely, concisely, and clearly state your reason for e-mailing. | |||
List a specific assignment title. | |||
Ask for clarification first before assuming an error or malice. | |||
If you are e-mailing with a problem, suggest a solution. | |||
SIGNATURE | |||
Closing with “Sincerely” or “Thank You” is usually appropriate. | |||
Include your full name – first and last | |||
Identify your course and section: (e.g., "ART3205.200") | |||
SEND | |||
Proofread – use spellcheck and Grammarly | |||
Allow 12 business hours for a reply (weekends, holidays, breaks, and the hours between 5pm-9am don’t count) |
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Check your email for a response. | |||
Never send when you're angry, drunk, high, or sleep-deprived. Save a draft to send later. | |||
Don't use e-mail if the issue can wait and be handled in person. |