How to Write Thoughtful Thank You Cards

Write the Perfect Thank-You Card

Whenever you receive a gift from someone, it is courteous to write them a thank-you card expressing your appreciation. However, not all of us are gifted sentimental writers. Here is how you can easily learn the craft of thoughtful thank-you card writing and win over the hearts of all who receive them.

Things You'll Need

• Blank thank-you cards
• pen or pencil

Instructions

1. Keep it short. Pick a thank-you card that isn't too big, or you will be tempted to fill the space with unnecessary script. A good thank-you note is kept sweet at 3 or 4 sentences.

2. 

   Properly address the person you are thanking. For example, if the card if for your mom, you would write, "Dear Mom" instead of "Dear Susan". Also consider how informal or formal your relationship with the person is. If you have a close relationship, it is not necessary to include the 'Dear' heading. Simply endorse the recipient by his or her name ("Billy,"). Remember to include titles such as 'Aunt' or 'Uncle' if you refer to the person that way. This makes the card much more personal.

3. Begin with a thank you. Start your first sentence off with the words, "Thank you so much for..." or "I just wanted to thank you..".

4. 

   Include why you appreciate the gift or gesture. The next sentence should contain your gratitude in a way that conveys your appreciation. For example, if you received a new journal as a gift, you could write "You know how much I love to write- this journal is perfect for me!". If someone gave you money, you might say, "Your gift has allowed us to start a college fund for our children". There are countless ways to express appreciation for a gift. Keep the sentences short and to the point. No more than 2 is needed.

5. 

   Close with well wishes. Taylor this part to fit the particular person you are thanking. For example, since my family is Christian, I close with "May God continue to bless you and your family" or "God Bless". If you are not religious, I would recommend inserting a wish to see that person again soon or commenting on how it was good to see them. This kind of an ending emphasizes the appreciation for the recipient and not just the gift or gesture.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice writing thank-you messages on a separate sheet of paper. Copy your final version on the actual card.

• A good thank-you card conveys thoughtfulness. Feel free to deviate from this formula in order to achieve it.

• Always keep a stock of blank thank-you cards available

• Send thank-you cards out no later than 2 weeks after the gift or gesture. It is tactless to wait more than a month.

• Refrain from writing "I really appreciate...", this does nothing to convey how your feel.

Resources

• Writing Thank-You Notes: Finding The Perfect Words