How to Write Emails to Close Friends

Contact your friends quickly during the day through email.

Technological advances have made communication quick and convenient. Use email to stay in touch with close friends as often as you want, free of charge. What you write reaches your friend’s inbox almost instantly, whether she lives next door to you or halfway around the world. Emails to close friends are similar to friendly letters, but are usually shorter and less formal.

Instructions

1. Think about your purpose for the email. You might want to tell your friend about something that happened during the day, see if you can get together soon, or just find out how she’s doing.

2. Write a greeting that reflects your closeness. You could use the term “dear” or “my dearest friend,” for example, before putting the recipient’s name.

3. Write your message. You don’t necessarily need an introductory paragraph. One sentence is enough and sometimes, if you’ve recently spoken to your friend and are frequently in touch, you can go directly to your main point without an introduction. Show your closeness by confiding in your friend, sharing some of your thoughts or feelings. Use informal language because you know the recipient well. You should still, however, use correct grammar and spelling.

4. Write a closing sentence, possibly referring to the next time you will see or speak to your friend.

5. Type your name below your message. Reread your email, making sure you conveyed your message. Make any necessary revisions and then click “send.”

References

• The University of Hong Kong: Informal Letter

Resources

• Daily Writing Tips: Writing Clinic #1: The Informal Email