How to write emails and Slacks that get to the point. 👉🏼 Find more free work templates at workbaby.com

🚫 Most of us think chronologically

This happened, then this happened, then this. So when we email we tend to share all the detail and context and then build up to the point.

✅ For most emails, you want to flip it

Prioritise the key takeaway at the beginning, followed by supporting details and context needed to explain that main point.

This is often called Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF), or “starting with the bottom line”.

Example structure

Hi [name]

Main Message

What do you want this person to know or do? By When? This is usually 1) an ask, 2) a recommendation, 3) or a critical update. One or two sentences. Not the backstory.

Background / Context

What’s the minimum context you need to give to explain the point above?

• Essential details or supporting points
• Keep it short – assume they're skimming