Apply it to Formal email:
Model clinic
Compare a draft with a stronger version.
Less effective: Hey, I need the meeting changed.
More effective: Could we move Thursday’s meeting to Friday afternoon? I’m available after 2 pm and can send the revised agenda beforehand.
A courteous request includes an option and next step.
How the text works
Purpose, shape and language.
Purpose: Communicate a clear request or update efficiently
Common forms: School, workplace, project communication
Typical structure: Subject → greeting → purpose → necessary details → action or deadline → sign-off
Language features: Polite openings; direct requests; concise paragraphs; modal verbs
Tone and register: Courteous, concise and appropriately formal; avoid chat abbreviations.
Teaching guidance
Put the purpose in the first lines. Make the requested action and any deadline easy to find.
Quick learner checklist
- □ The opening makes the purpose clear: Communicate a clear request or update efficiently.
- □ Each part has a clear place and moves the reader towards the purpose.
- □ The language features, tone and level of formality fit the reader and situation.
- □ I have checked the details, paragraphing and punctuation before sharing.