Direct or Deductive Letters

Good-news (acceptance, announcements, information, granting requests, reminders, thank-

yours, congratulations):
1. Best news/main idea
2. Explanation Give necessary details and/or background information.
3. Positive, friendly closureExpress your appreciation, or make a clear statement of the
desired action.

Direct-requests (simple claim letters, some collection letters, asking simple favors, seeking
information, placing orders, reserving rooms, etc.):

1. Main ideaState your request, main statement, or question; give reasons, if necessary.
2. Further explanationGive all necessary and desirable details along with optional, but
often helpful devices, such as charts, graphs, lists, headings.
3. Courteous closure/motivation to actionMake a clear statement of the action you desire
along with information to make the action easier; express appreciation for doing the
action.