How to Email Your Instructors

Your instructors teach many classes and have lots of students. In order to make it easy for them to know who you are and what class you're in, your email should including the following information:

Subject Line 

• • • Write something in the subject line that summarizes why you are emailing. Typing something like “May I make an appointment?” or "Help understanding Ch. 4" gives the instructor an idea of what you need. Leaving the subject line blank or typing "Help" doesn't give the instructor much information.

Addressing the Email 

• • • Begin the email the same way you would if you were writing a letter "Hello Mr./Mrs./Dr. ___."
    • Include your full name, the name of the class and the class section information. It helps your instructor get back to you more quickly when they know what class you're in. See the screenshot below to help you figure out  your class and section number

Body of the Email 

• • •  At the beginning of the email tell your instructor what class and section number you are in - you can find this in your syllabus. This will help your instructor know what class you're in so they can efficiently answer your question.
    • When you're emailing an instructor treat it like you are writing a paper for class. Avoid sarcasm, criticism, or bad language. It's also a good idea to avoid abbreviations, slang, and emojis like smiley faces. Your email should not look like a text message. Proofread your email before you send it to make sure your email will be clearly understood. 

Be Courteous, Accommodating, and Respectful 

• • • Never send an email when you're upset. When you're upset your email may not be as clear and things may not come across the way you intended. With any important email it’s a good idea to take a minute and calm down so you can proofread it when you're thinking clearly. This can help make sure your questions or concerns are clear and help you avoid creating a poor relationship with your instructors.