Tips from the Writing Center: Email etiquette

Clarity in emails to faculty is crucial for conveying professionalism and respect for their time. Begin with a subject line that briefly states the purpose of your message, such as “Question on Pathophysiology Lecture” or “Request for Feedback on Research Topic.” A specific subject helps the recipient quickly understand the email’s focus and respond effectively.

In the body, introduce yourself briefly, especially if it’s your first communication or if the class is large. Use clear, concise sentences, and get to your main point right away. If you’re asking multiple questions, consider using a numbered list for easy readability. Avoid overly technical jargon or abbreviations, even in a medical or pharmacy context, as these can be misinterpreted without clarity.

Finally, be direct about any requests or deadlines. Specify dates, such as “Please let me know by Friday, Nov. 10, if possible.” A polite closing, such as “Thank you for your time,” reinforces clarity and respect.

- submitted by Brian Harrell, writing specialist in the Writing Center