What is the difference between letter, memo, e-mail, texting and formal writing? (2024)

FAQs

What is the difference between memo and letter and e-mail? ›

Memos are used only for communication within an organization, especially when the subject is more formal, non-routine, and more serious than what you'd write in an email. Letters are typically sent to recipients outside an organization.

E-mail messages are not as elaborated or lengthy as comparable letters (e.g. “Cool, huh” instead of “It's so cool to be home on a school day!”). E-mail mechanics are not governed by the same traditional conventions as letter writing (e.g. “G2g” instead of “Got to go” and innovative use of punctuation).

Texting is an informal way of sending messages across the person whom we intend to send it to. But formal writing is the formal way of informing the reader about the information.

Letters are more formal than memos, since they are generally externally sent to people outside of a company or organization. They use a full block format which is the standard for most organizations.

One difference between a memo and an email is that email does not include a subject line. This part of a typical business letter is usually located at the very top of the letter and includes the company logo, name, address, and contact information.

A memo, short for memorandum, is a way to inform a group of people about a specific problem, solution, or event. A memo should be brief, straightforward, and easy to read. It informs recipients and provides an action plan with specific next steps. You may send a memo as a paper letter, fax, or PDF attached to an email.

The tone of a memo is dependent on the audience. A formal tone is appropriate for superiors or serious subjects. An informal tone is okay for messages to co-workers or for casual subjects. Try to be sensitive to how the audience will perceive the message.

A message is a short and sweet, generally one shot deal form of communication that is not long at all. It's specific. It can be to one person or to many. A letter is generally longer, less formal to one person, that talks about a few things not in so much detail.

The main difference between formal and informal letters is that formal letters professionally address someone, and informal letters address someone in a personal way. Other differences include: Formal letters follow a specific format, while informal letters can follow any format.

Unlike emails that can be easily deleted or lost in the digital void, letters hold a tangible presence. They become cherished keepsakes that recipients can hold onto and revisit in the future. The physicality of a letter allows it to evoke emotions and memories in a way that digital messages often cannot.

What is the difference between email and texting? ›

Texting works on cellular data whereas email works on an internet connection. Texts are a less reliable form of communication than emails. Texting is a more interactive and conversational communication channel in comparison to emails.

Texting is a form of casual speaking in written form where no rules are observed. The primary goal of texting is to get the message across. That's it. The effort of writing is a conscious one and it converts thoughts into written words.

Pros: Formal and professional – Emails are typically considered more formal than text messages, making them ideal for important business communications. Information density – Emails allow you to include a lot of information (attachments, links, etc.). This can be useful when conveying complex or detailed information.

Memos are brief business documents usually used internally to inform or persuade employees concerning business decisions on policy, procedure, or actions. Letters are brief, print messages often used externally to inform or persuade customers, vendors, or the public.

Memos are usually more formal than emails and are often used when you need to give your message a more official look. They can also be printed and distributed wherever this message would have the most impact.

Britannica Dictionary definition of MEMO. [count] : a usually brief written message from one person or department in an organization, company, etc., to another : memorandum. He sent a memo to the staff.

The main difference between an email and a memo is that an email is a digital message sent through the internet, while a memo is a physical document typically used for internal communication within a company.

Memos and emails can be used to help maintain ongoing communication among evaluation stakeholders through brief and specific messages about a particular issue.

Both are used to communicate information within an organization or to an external party. Both typically have a subject line or title that summarizes the main topic of the message. Both may include a greeting or salutation at the beginning, and a closing or farewell at the end.

Memos are usually more formal than emails and are often used when you need to give your message a more official look. They can also be printed and distributed wherever this message would have the most impact.

When would you use a memo instead of a letter? ›

Letters are usually one- to two-page documents sent to people or organizations outside of the organization from which they're sent, whereas memos are equivalent documents for formal communications within an organization.

Memos are distinguished by a header that includes DATE, TO, FROM, and SUBJECT lines. Other lines, such as CC or BCC, may be added as needed. An RE (“Reference”) line may be used instead of SUBJECT, but this use is becoming rarer as “RE” is often mistaken as “Reply” because of its use in email.