How to Write CC on a Letter
Writing a letter is an art that requires attention to detail, especially when it comes to addressing the recipient and any additional recipients. One of the key elements in this process is correctly writing the “cc” on a letter. The “cc” stands for “carbon copy” and is used to indicate that a copy of the letter is being sent to someone other than the primary recipient. In this article, we will guide you through the proper way to write “cc” on a letter, ensuring that your correspondence is both professional and effective.
Understanding the Purpose of CC
Before we delve into the formatting, it’s essential to understand the purpose of the “cc” field. When you include someone in the “cc” section, you are essentially informing them that they will receive a copy of the letter. This is often done for various reasons, such as keeping a record of the communication, involving another party in the discussion, or simply providing a courtesy copy to someone who may need to be informed about the letter’s content.
Proper Placement of CC
The “cc” field should be placed in the upper left corner of the letter, just below the date line. It is important to keep it aligned with the left margin and ensure that it is written in a clear, legible font. Typically, the “cc” is followed by a colon and then the name of the person or organization receiving the copy.
Here is an example of how to format the “cc” field:
“`
cc: John Doe
“`
Alternatively, if you are addressing multiple recipients, you can list their names on separate lines:
“`
cc:
John Doe
Jane Smith
“`
Formatting the Recipient’s Name
When writing the name of the recipient in the “cc” field, it is important to use their full name, including any titles or suffixes they may have. For example, if you are addressing a doctor, you would write “cc: Dr. John Doe.” This practice ensures that the recipient is easily identified and the letter is directed to the correct person.
Capitalization and Punctuation
In the “cc” field, capitalization is typically used for the first letter of each word, just as it is in the salutation. Additionally, there should be no punctuation marks after the recipient’s name, as the “cc” field is not considered a formal salutation.
Here is an example of proper capitalization and punctuation:
“`
cc: Dr. John Doe
“`
Conclusion
Writing “cc” on a letter may seem like a simple task, but it is an important aspect of professional correspondence. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure that your letters are well-formatted and effectively communicate your message to all intended recipients. Remember to keep the “cc” field aligned with the left margin, use proper capitalization and punctuation, and list the recipient’s full name for clarity. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to writing a polished and professional letter.
