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. |