📖 Notes
LESSON 13 OF 16
Email & Professional Writing
Formal Doesn't Mean Complicated
Professional emails follow a predictable structure and a small set of formal vocabulary swaps — the same handful of phrases cover most situations you'll ever need to write.
Formal Email Structure
Subject → Greeting → Opening → Body → Closing → Sign-off
A Formal Email Skeleton
WritingSubject: clear and specific Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. [Surname], I am writing to... [Body — clear paragraphs] I look forward to hearing from you. Yours sincerely, (known name) Yours faithfully, (unknown name)
Formal Vocabulary Swaps
❓
Ask → Enquire / Request
Use "enquire about" or "request" instead of "ask."
📌
Need → Require
"I require further information."
🙏
Sorry → Apologise
"I apologise for the delay."
🤝
Help → Assist
"Please let me know if I can assist."
Ready-Made Purpose Phrases
- "I am writing to enquire about..."
- "I would be grateful if you could..."
- "Please do not hesitate to contact me."