Suggestions and Tips:

As a rule…

1. Brevity is the soul of wit: keep it short!

2. Proof read before sending!

3. Use appropriate address!

4. Tone: keep it positive! Avoid negativity but don’t try to be cute.

5. When sending attachments, make not that there is an attachment and name the file as SPECIFICALLY as possible, including last name and course title along with assignment ID (BOYD-ENGL700-Pedagogy-Teaching Template)

For specific concerns…

Lodging a Complaint:
Complaint emails are about as fun to write as they are to read. Keep it brief but give a context. Explain attempts you’ve previously made to remedy the problem and offer suggestions on ways you think it can be resolved.

To Email or Not To Email:

Do email if:

1. you have an easy question to answer via email
2. you have permission to email an assignment
3. you are requesting a meeting to discuss something of a lengthier nature

Don’t email if: 

1. you’re turning in an assignment late without permission to submit via email
2. you are requesting to discuss a topic that will require a lengthy conversation or dialogue (this should be limited to a request to meet)
3. you just want your instructor to look over a paper that is due (unless you have permission from your instructor).
4. you are angry. Sleep on it and have a friend read over it. It’s much easier to win bees with honey.

Be careful emailing if:

1. you are requesting an extension (it may be best to make these requests in person)
2. you are requesting something that will involve a significant portion of your instructor’s time (writing a recommendation letter, requesting mentorship, research work, directed studies, etc.)