How to Perfectly Craft a Heartfelt Thanks

In this fast-paced world, where technology makes it so much easier to dash off an e-mail than take time to handwrite a note, it seems that the art of writing a charming thank you is all but lost. As old-fashioned, as it may seem, however, putting pen to paper, is still the ideal way to show your gratitude. A handwritten note is always appropriate, and it doesn’t have to be difficult to put one together. It’s a skill that’s worth mastering now because it will come in handy, not just for gifts but also for job interviews, professional connections and more. Try the following tips for penning the perfect thank you note, and you’ll be a pro by the time graduation rolls around! 

Thank You Note 101:  

• Always handwrite thank you notes— The extra effort will always go a long way with the recipient.

• Stock up on stylish stationery— Keep a box of note cards, stamps, and a pen in an easy-to-find location so you always have everything you need to send a thank-you note ASAP. (See our picks for fun stationery on the next page)

• Take your time—Don’t rush through writing your note—you want them to be able to read it! Think about what you want to say before you start writing and use a nice, fine-point pen to avoid ink smudges.

• Keep it short and sweet—You want to be conversational and not too stiff but don’t ramble on in your note.

• Add a personal touch—Thank the giver for the gift, but also mention how you plan to use it. For example, “Thank you for the headphones. They will be especially useful on my trip to Florida next month.” If you plan to see the giver soon, mention that, too. When thanking someone for a monetary gift, don’t mention the amount, but do mention how you intend to use it and thank them for their generosity.
• Better late than never—A late thank you is better than no thank you at all, so don’t be embarrassed to send one even if it has been a while since you received the gift.

Simple Formula: 

• Write the date at the top right corner of the note.
• Include a salutation (Depending on how close you are to the recipient, “Dear Aunt Martha” may be fine; otherwise, “Dear Mrs. Brown”).
• Indent the first paragraph.
• Thank them for the gift, invitation or kindness shown to you.
• Add a personal comment about the gift or occasion.
• Add a closing (such as “Sincerely” or “Love”) and then your signature.

Parent-to-Parent 

“I’ve made a point to teach my kids how to write thank-you notes. I feel like there are so many other things we as a society have given up on—but it’s still so important to show others gratitude.”  -Cheri L., mom of 4 teens, ages 12-18 

Savanna

As an editor, copywriter, and social media manager at exploreMedia, I work to develop content that is relevant and interesting to our readers and coordinate with contributing writers.