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Writing Guidelines

Prewriting ■ Exploring Your Topic

• Think about your topic and purpose. In one sentence, write your reason for writing—what you want your reader to know or do.
• Gather your information. List the details you will need to include in your letter. Then think about the best way to present them.

Writing ■ Creating the First Draft

Always think in terms of the beginning, middle, and ending when you write your letter.

Beginning ■ Introduce your subject and reason for writing.

Middle ■ Present all of the important facts and details in short, clearly stated paragraphs.

Ending ■ Explain what action you would like your reader to take.