The Three-Step Memo

As you try to get your thoughts down, you are distracted by dozens of competing concerns and preoccupations, including the co-worker in the hallway who is describing in intimate detail his marvelous mid-winter vacation in the Cayman Islands. A hour later, after two people have walked into your office and five people have called you on the phone (each needing an immediate response) you have completed your memo, which is supposed to be an articulate, organized, cogent statement of your purpose in writing.

So what's new?

The next time you find yourself trying to write a memo in less-than-ideal conditions like these, try organizing your thoughts using this simple, three-step formula:
1. Purpose
2. Support
3. Proposed action.

It is more than a time-saver for you. It also ensures that you are stating your purpose clearly and getting to the point quickly for your reader. Here's how it works:

Organize your message into three paragraphs beginning with these phrases:

I am writing because (or to) . . .

The facts are . . .

I propose that you . . .

From Wilbers: The Three-Step Memo.

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