The military structure their communications for maximum clarity and conciseness. These are the key points to write emails in an fffective manner:
Format: STATUS - Message Title
Status keywords:
- ACTION – Compulsory for the recipient to take some action
- SIGN – Requires the signature of the recipient
- INFO – For informational purposes only, and there is no response or action required
- DECISION – Requires a decision by the recipient
- REQUEST – Seeks permission or approval by the recipient
- COORD – Coordination by or with the recipient is needed
First line summary. Should quickly answer the five W’s: Who, What, Where, When, and Why.
Use Summary: or Bottom Line: as prefix.
Then follow with "Background:" section, otten with bullet points
- Use Active Voice, not Passive
- Use short bullet-point lists
- Attachment links rather than attaching files
Source Article:
https://hbr.org/2016/11/how-to-write-email-with-military-precision