More Is Worse
- Use fewer words
- > Include fewer ideas
- Make fewer requests
Make It Readable
- > Use shorter, more familiar words
- › Use shorter sentences
- > Use straightforward sentences that a reader can understand after a single read
- Check readability (e.g., link) and aim for a Sth grade reading level or below when possible
- Consider translating into commonly spoken languages (e.g. link)
Make It Navigable
- Make the purpose immediately clear
- Integrate ideas so related content is together
- > Visually separate distinct topics
- Consider headings for distinct topics
- Present ideas in an effective format (e.g., tables or figures if useful) Consider grouping all asks together
Use Formatting
Judiciously
- Use formatting to draw attention to the most important items
Remove formatting from information that is not critical
Limit the number of formatting types in a single message
Emphasize Value
For Readers
> Make it clear why readers should care
Make Actions Easy
Make next steps and action items clear and precise
- If there are no next steps, state that explicitly
- > Make next steps and action items as easy as possible to follow through on
- Provide in one place all information needed to act
- Reduce the number of steps and effort required to act
- If requesting a meeting, consider proactively proposing a specific date,