Dear Jacquelyn,

Nowadays, we don’t take the time to write handwritten letters very often and it’s become a dying art. Can you please share some tips on the best way to organize your thoughts before penning a letter?

Dear Reader,

In today’s fast-paced world, letter-writing can seem like an obsolete form of communication.

However, there are still times when writing a letter is appropriate, and it’s good to know when, and how to write one.

Our grandparents and great-grandparents wrote letters all the time to their friends and families, to express condolences, to invite someone to visit, to accept an invitation, and to thank people for hospitality or gifts.

I believe that taking the time to handwrite notes is still relevant and always well-received. Here are some tips and proper etiquette when putting pen to paper.

Letters are time capsules, so be sure to date when it was written. The recipient is bound to hold onto your letter as a keepsake.

The salutation is next. Dear “so and so” is the standard greeting for letters but there is nothing wrong with using something unique. For example, “To my best friend.”

Start your letter a line below the greeting and make sure to indent so that the first paragraph is distinguishable. It is standard to inquire about their health and wellness after the greeting, but you can really start your letter however you want.

When you are finished writing, take a moment to think about how to close your letter with a thoughtful sentiment. “Sincerely, is the standard closing for letters. “My best” would be perfect for some people, while “Love” is the only closing that would be appropriate for others.

It might be faster to talk by phone or text, but a handwritten letter requires real effort and drive to complete. The recipient is sure to be thrilled by the effort you put into your endeavor.

Respectfully Yours,

Jacquelyn

Have a question? Email: jacquelyn@ptd.net. Jacquelyn Youst is owner of the Pennsylvania Academy of Protocol, specializing in etiquette training. She is on the board of directors of the National Civility Foundation.

All Rights Reserved &Copy; 2022 Jacquelyn Youst