How to Write a Thank You Note

“No duty is more urgent than that of returning thanks,” said Saint Ambrose (337-397), Bishop of Milan. That said, writing a genuine thank you note isn’t always as easy as it seems, especially if you don’t want to sound trite. Here are some steps you can follow to write a better thank you note.

Start with a greeting: Begin your note with a greeting, such as “Dear [Name]” or “Hello [Name].”

Express your gratitude: In the first paragraph, clearly and specifically express your gratitude for the gift, favor, or kindness that you are thanking the person for.

Mention the specific gift or favor: In the second paragraph, mention the specific gift or favor that you are thanking the person for. This will help make your note more personal and show that you are paying attention to the details.

Add a personal touch: Consider adding a personal touch to your note by mentioning how the gift or favor has impacted you or how you plan to use it. This can help make your note more meaningful and heartfelt.

End with a closing: End your note with a closing, such as “Sincerely,” “Best regards,” or “Thank you again,” followed by your signature.

Edit and revise: Good writing takes time and effort, and it’s important to edit and revise your thank you note to ensure that it is clear and error-free. Make sure to proofread for spelling and grammar errors.

Make it personal: A thank you note is an opportunity to show your appreciation and gratitude in a personal way. Avoid using pre-printed cards or generic language, and instead take the time to write a note that is specific and heartfelt.

Be timely: It’s best to send your thank you note as soon as possible after the gift or favor was given. This will show that you are truly grateful and that you value the person’s thoughtfulness.

Use good stationery: Consider using high-quality stationery or a card to make your thank you note feel more special and thoughtful.

Keep it brief: While it’s important to express your gratitude, it’s also important to be mindful of the time and attention of the person reading your note. Keep your thank you note brief and to the point, and avoid rambling or going on too long.

Handwrite your note: While it’s convenient to send an email or text message, a handwritten thank you note can be more personal and heartfelt. Consider taking the time to handwrite your note to make it feel more special.