How to End a Letter with Regards
Ending a letter with “regards” is a common and professional way to conclude your correspondence. It is a simple yet effective way to show respect and gratitude to the recipient. However, there are certain guidelines to follow to ensure that your letter is well-composed and leaves a positive impression. In this article, we will discuss how to end a letter with regards and provide some tips to help you craft the perfect closing.
1. Choose the Right Tone
Before you decide to end your letter with “regards,” consider the tone of your message. If the letter is formal, such as a business communication or a letter to a government official, “regards” is an appropriate choice. However, if the letter is more personal, such as a letter to a friend or family member, you might want to consider using a different closing, such as “best regards” or “sincerely.”
2. Follow the Standard Format
When ending a letter with “regards,” it is important to follow the standard format. Typically, you should place “regards” two lines below your signature. If you are sending a typed letter, you can use a slightly larger font size for the closing to make it stand out. Here is an example of how to format the closing:
“`
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Recipient’s Name]
[Recipient’s Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Dear [Recipient’s Name],
[Your message here]
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
“`
3. Personalize Your Closing
While “regards” is a universally acceptable closing, you can make your letter more personal by using variations such as “best regards,” “warm regards,” or “kind regards.” This can help convey your emotions and strengthen the connection with the recipient. However, be careful not to overdo it, as too many variations can make your letter sound unprofessional.
4. Proofread Your Letter
Before sending your letter, always proofread it to ensure that there are no grammatical errors or typos. Pay special attention to the closing, as it is the last thing the recipient will read. A well-crafted closing can leave a lasting impression, so take the time to make it perfect.
5. Consider the Context
In some cases, you may need to adapt the closing to the context of your letter. For example, if you are writing a letter of recommendation, you might want to use a more formal closing, such as “sincerely” or “best regards.” On the other hand, if you are writing a letter of complaint, you might want to use a more assertive closing, such as “yours truly” or “faithfully.”
In conclusion, ending a letter with “regards” is a simple yet effective way to convey respect and gratitude to the recipient. By following these guidelines and considering the context of your letter, you can craft a perfect closing that leaves a positive impression. Remember to choose the right tone, follow the standard format, personalize your closing, proofread your letter, and consider the context to ensure that your letter is well-composed and professional.
