How to write a thank-you note in under five minutes

A simple "thank you" can be hard to write when they are for someone you don't know very well. If a heart-felt letter is not in order, then you can follow these steps to getting your card out quickly.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• A thank-you card, or just regular paper
• Stamp
• Envelope

1. Prepare the envelope.
   
   Get it all ready to go. As usual, this requires the name, address, return address, and of course a stamp.
2. Write an opening.
   
   "Dear _____," usually works wonders. If they are not so dear, then just write their name followed by a comma.
3. Thank them for the specific gift.
   
   "Thank you so much for the _______." Be as specific as you'd like, and be sure to use adjectives. They need to know exactly what you're thanking them for.
4. Mention why you like it.
   
   "It will be great for _____." This might be what you will do with it, where you will put it, or (in the case of money or a gift card) what you will spend it on. They want to know (or at least think) that their gift will not be spending its life in the back of a closet somewhere.
5. Add something about the both of you.
   
   This could be something to the effect of "It was great seeing you," or "I'm sorry you won't be able to make it," or "I look forward to seeing you at ______." This is so it's not all about the gift - you are acknowledging them as well.
6. Write a closing.
   
   "Thanks again," will do just fine. Then sign your name like you mean it!
7. Send it!
   
   Stick the note in the envelope, seal the envelope, and put it in a mailbox. It is now on its way to serve your social obligation.

Tips & Warnings

• Try to make it sound personal. Even if it is a variation on a form letter, you don't want it to be blatantly obvious.
• Send it out as soon as possible after you receive the gift. Your speed will impress them.
• Late is better than never. Try not to wait too long, but if you already have, then briefly apologize the lateness of the thank-you note. Don't just skip it because it's been a while.