Submit a short discussion memo (three pages) that analyzes the topic as well connects history and contemporary issues. The discussion memo and feedback paper should be Standard 1-inch margins, 12-point font, double spaced writing, free of grammatical and spelling errors. Appropriate use of varied references is required; this includes interviews, newspaper, magazines and books (Chicago / MLA). Papers will be subject to checks for plagiarism.
How to Write an Effective Memo
Memo (short for memorandum) is a business-oriented style that is best suited for interoffice or intercolleague correspondence. More informal in tone and organization than a letter, memos are generally used to provide or ask for information, announce a new policy, update on personnel transfers, or for any other internal issues.
Elements of an Effective Memo
An effective memo:
- grabs the reader’s attention
- provides information, makes a recommendation, or asks for action
- supports your position or explains benefits to reader
- mentions next steps and deadlines
When composing a memo, always take the four-step approach to writing: plan what you want to say, write a draft, revise the draft, and edit.
Types of Memos
There are four types of memos you might have to write, each with its own organizational format: information, problem-solving, persuasion, and internal memo proposal.
Information Memo - used to deliver or request information or assistance
- first paragraph provides main idea
- second paragraph expands on the details
- third paragraph outlines the action required
Problem-solving Memo - suggests a specific action to improve a situation
- first paragraph states the problem
- second paragraph analyzes the problem
- third paragraph makes a recommendation
- when making a recommendation, include not only the positive details but also the drawbacks and diffuse them yourself
Persuasion Memo - used to encourage the reader to undertake an action he or she doesn’t have to take
- first paragraph begins with an agreeable point
- second paragraph introduces the idea
- third paragraph states benefits to the reader
