You asked that I look at...."
If you want to explain your intentions, you might say,
"To determine the best method of promoting the new fall line, I will...."
Include only as much information as is needed by the decision-makers in the context, but be
convincing that a real problem exists. Do not ramble on with insignificant details. If you are
having trouble putting the task into words, consider whether you have clarified the situation. You
may need to do more planning before you're ready to write your memo. Make sure your purpose-
statement forecast divides your subject into the most important topics that the decision-maker
needs.
Summary Segment
If your memo is longer than a page, you may want to include a separate summary segment.
However, this section not necessary for short memos and should not take up a significant amount
of space. This segment provides a brief statement of the key recommendations you have reached.
These will help your reader understand the key points of the memo immediately. This segment
may also include references to methods and sources you have used in your research.
Discussion Segments
The discussion segments are the longest portions of the memo, and are the parts in which you
include all the details that support your ideas. Begin with the information that is most important.
This may mean that you will start with key findings or recommendations. Start with your most
general information and move to your specific or supporting facts. (Be sure to use the same
format when including details: strongest to weakest.) The discussion segments include the
supporting ideas, facts, and research that back up your argument in the memo. Include strong
points and evidence to persuade the reader to follow your recommended actions. If this section is
inadequate, the memo will not be as effective as it could be.
Closing Segment
After the reader has absorbed all of your information, you want to close with a courteous ending
that states what action you want your reader to take. Make sure you consider how the reader will
benefit from the desired actions and how you can make those actions easier. For example, you
might say,
"I will be glad to discuss this recommendation with you during our Tuesday trip to the spa and
follow through on any decisions you make."
Necessary Attachments
Make sure you document your findings or provide detailed information whenever necessary.
You can do this by attaching lists, graphs, tables, etc. at the end of your memo. Be sure to refer
to your attachments in your memo and add a notation about what is attached below your closing,
like this:
Attached: Focus Group Results, January- May 2007
Contributors: Courtnay Perkins, Allen Brizee.
Summary:
This handout will help you solve your memo-writing problems by discussing what a memo is,
describing the parts of memos, and providing examples and explanations that will make your
memos more effective.