Directive Letters

How to write an effective directive letter to effectively guide, govern, or influence:

• Clearly state your request or indicate what needs to be done and give as much detail as necessary for the task, project, or other assignment to be accomplished. If a problem needs to be resolved, clearly indicate what the problem is and, if desired, how you would like it to be solved.

• Give the reason for the directive, if desired.

• Specifically state how you expect the reader to proceed in order to accomplish the task.

• Give the deadline for which the task or project should be completed. Arrange for follow-up or evaluation if needed.

• Mention the benefits of the directive to the people involved, if applicable.

• You might include the names of individuals the reader could contact or identify available resources that can help him/her to complete the project or other assignment.

• If appropriate, offer to give assistance if needed or offer to answer any questions or address any concerns or problems that arise.

• Thank the reader and close by expressing your confidence that he/she can complete the task at hand.