The format of a memo follows the general guidelines of business writing. A memo is usually a
page or two long, should be single spaced and left justified. Instead of using indentations to show
new paragraphs, skip a line between sentences. Business materials should be concise and easy to
read. Therefore it is beneficial to use headings and lists to help the reader pinpoint certain
information.
You can help your reader understand your memo better by using headings for the summary and
the discussion segments that follow it. Write headings that are short but that clarify the content of
the segment. For example, instead of using "Summary" for your heading, try "New Advertising
Recommendations," which is much more specific. The major headings you choose are the ones
that should be incorporated in your purpose-statement in the opening paragraph.
For easy reading, put important points or details into lists rather than paragraphs when possible.
This will draw the readers' attention to the section and help the audience remember the
information better. Using lists will help you be concise when writing a memo.