How to write a Memo

A memo (short for "interoffice memorandum") is a business form of communication. The top of the memo includes the date, the names of the writer and the receiver of the memo, and the subject of the memo. It will look like this:

May 2, 2005

TO: Dr. Blair Green, Principal
       Middlebury High School

FROM: (Your Name Here), Media Specialist

SUBJECT: Recommendation for online dictionary
------------------------------------------------------------

I recommend that Middlebury High School purchase a site license for YourDictionary, http://www.yourdictionary.com. It is the best choice for MHS students for the following reasons:

  • Reason 1
  • Reason 2
  • Reason 3
  • Reason 4





As you compose your memo, think about your audience. The principal of a school is interested in what will be best for students and most cost-effective. Your writing should be simple, clear, and complete. It should use a formal, businesslike tone. A memo should be two pages at most.

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