03. Email Correspondence

You must check e-mail on a regular basis to take this course. Assignments will be dispersed via email.

Checklist for your emails:

1.  Write from your school-assigned email address. That immediately lets your professor see that your e-mail is legitimate and not spam.

2.  All emails should have a descriptive subject line that includes your course number/section. (example: Art 100 MWF, Homework #1 question)

3.  Open with a greeting (example: Hello ____, Hi _____, Greetings _____, etc).

4.  Ask politely. “Could you clarify what our author was discussing on page 72? Thanks!” is a lot better than “I need the assignment.”

5.  Do not use txt speak.

6.  Before asking a question, first thoroughly read the syllabus, course documents, assignments, and announcements (these are all available online).  If your question is readily answered in the online documents or a previous email, it will not be a high priority for me to respond.

7.  DO NOT TYPE IN ALL CAPS.  IT READS AS IF YOU ARE SHOUTING AT THE RECIPIENT OF YOUR EMAIL.

8.  Proofread what you’ve written. You want your e-mail to show you in the best possible light.

9.  Sign with your full name, and list course/section. (example: Jane Anderson, English 370, MWF 10:00).

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EXAMPLE:
TO: mueller_e@wvwc.edu
FROM: simpson_m@wvwc.edu

SUBJECT: Art 100 MWF, Essay #1 question

Hi Professor Mueller,

I’m writing my essay on motifs in Citizen Kane and I’m not sure how much background information to include about the story and characters. Or is that necessary for this paper? Thanks!

Maggie Simpson
Art 100 MWF
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Why do we practice sending emails using these professional practices? Because it is important to develop these writing habits for after you graduate. 78% of people say email etiquette impacts their decision to engage with you.

Allow at least 24 hours for a response during the work week, and at least 48 hours for emails sent on the weekend.

Never delete an email related to this class. I will often refer back to previously sent emails, and it is your responsibility to keep track of these.