Writing Thank You - 6 Easy Foolproof Steps to the Perfect Thank You Note

Writing thank you to that special someone is easy. Just follow these six, foolproof steps and you will discover you are able to write thank you notes for any occasion.

Step One - Date and Salutation

Date the note at the top and write Dear Aunt Sally or Dear Elizabeth. Dear is the most common and traditional salutation. It is the most recommended.

Step Two - The First Thank You

Simply write the words, "Thank you for" and then insert the git or kindness that has warranted your gratitude. Writing "Thank you for ..." lets the reader know right away that he or she is the focus of your gratitude and why.

Examples: Thank you for the lovely silver platter you gave us for our anniversary. Thank you for having us over for dinner.

If you are writing thank you for money, it is considered most polite to write, "Thank you for your generous gift."

Step Three - Say Something Nice About the Gift, Favor or Act of Kindness

When writing thank you notes or cards, it is important to say something nice and make it as specific as possible to the situation. It does not have to be anything fancy, but it should let the recipient know something specific how his or her gift or favor was appreciated.

For example, if you received a gift such as a sweater, you might write, "The sweater fits perfectly." Or if someone planned a surprise party in your honor, you might say, "The party was amazing and truly a surprise."

A traditional line for gifts particularly wedding gifts is, "We will think of you every time we use it."

If the gift was cash or money, you would write what you spent the money on or what you are saving it for.

Step Four - Compliment the Person

Simply write the words, "You are a" and fill in the compliment. It is even better, if you can tie the compliment into the gift or favor. For instance in the case of the sweater, you might write, "You have amazing taste." Or if you are thanking someone for having you over to dinner, "You are a great cook," or "You are an excellent hostess."

If you are stuck you can always write, "You are a generous friend" or a variation in your own words.

Step Five - The Second Thank You

Keep it simple. Write the words, "Thanks again." If you want to get fancy you could write, "Thank you once again." Naturally, you can find other variations that suit your style, if you like, but you cannot go wrong with closing your note with, "Thanks again."

Step Six - Sign It

When writing thank you to close family and loved ones, sign the letter, "Love" for all others nothing beats "Sincerely."

Want to see the parts in action? Here is the letter for our sweater.

Dear Aunt Josie,

Thank you for the lovely sweater you sent for my birthday. It fits perfectly. You always pick out the best clothes. I love it. Thanks again.

Love,
Gretchen

You will notice that each step can be done in a sentence or two. Feel free to reverse the order of steps three and four.

Writing thank you is best when written on a card, notelet or personal stationery by hand. Writing thank you is best when written on a card, notelet or personal stationery by hand.

Now that you have the basic formula for writing thank you, you will discover you will find creative ways to give each thank you your own special touch.

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