CRICOS Provider No. 00103D | RTO Code 4909 MEMO To: From: CC: Date: Re: HOW TO STRUCTURE A MEMO (adapted from Purdue Online Writing Lab - https://moodle.federation.edu.au/mod/book/view.php?id=5340362&chapterid=1287549) Make sure you address the reader by his or her correct name and job title. Be specific and concise in your subject line. Opening Segment/Introduction Give the reader a brief overview of what the memo will be about. The purpose of a memo is usually found in the opening paragraph and includes: the purpose of the memo, the context and problem, and the specific assignment or task. Including the purpose of the memo will help clarify the reason the audience should read this document. The introduction should be brief: approximately the length of a short paragraph. Context The context is the event, circumstance, or background of the problem you are solving. You may use a paragraph or a few sentences to establish the background and state the problem. Include only what your reader needs, but be sure it is clear. Oftentimes it is sufficient to use the opening of a sentence to completely explain the context, such as, "Through market research and analysis..." Task Segment One essential portion of a memo is the task statement where you should describe what you are doing to help solve the problem. If the action was requested, your task may be indicated by a sentence opening like, "You asked that I look at...." If you want to explain your intentions, you might say, "To determine the best method of promoting the new fall line, I will...." Include only as much information as is needed by the decision-makers in the context, but be convincing that a real problem exists. If you are having trouble putting the task into words, consider whether you have clarified the situation. You may need to do more planning before you're ready to write your memo. Discussion Segments The discussion segments are the longest portions of the memo, and are the parts in which you include all the details that support your ideas. Begin with the information that is most important. This may mean that you will start with key findings or recommendations. Start with your most general information and move to your specific or supporting facts. (Be sure to use the same format when including details: strongest to weakest.) The discussion segments include the supporting ideas, facts, and research that back up your argument in the memo. Include strong points and evidence to persuade the reader to follow your recommended actions. If this section is inadequate, the memo will not be as effective as it could be. Closing Segment/Conclusion After the reader has absorbed all of your information, you want to close with a courteous ending that states what action you want your reader to take. Make sure you consider how the reader will benefit from the desired actions and how you can make those actions easier. For example, you might say, "I will be glad to discuss this recommendation with you during our Tuesday trip to the spa and follow through on any decisions you make." Reference List Include a reference list that contains only those items cited in the memo, following APA 6th or 7th formatting guidelines. The reference list is not included in the two page memo limit (ie; can be placed on the third page).

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Memo-template....docx

BUHRM5913-A1-....pdf