Most professional (and even personal) communications should start with…
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BLUF (Bottom Line Up Front).
This means that you start with the ending–in mind, on paper, verbally, and in digital format.
You provide the conclusion and/or recommendations right up front.
Rather than first wadding through all the details–context, analysis, considerations, assumptions, risks, etc.
Let the reader know right away what it is you want.
Generally, this is different than an abstract or summary that provides a synopsis and leading evidence for the argument put forward.
Tell me what I need to know and get right to the point! 😉
(Source Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
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