Digital Etiquette & Email Basics

Netiquette is the set of polite habits people use online. Because the reader cannot see your face or hear your voice, words on a screen can feel sharper than you mean them to. Choosing kind language, full sentences, and a clear subject line keeps your message friendly and easy to read.

The Three Etiquette Habits

1. Be clear — say what you mean in full words, not all caps.
2. Be kind — greet the person and thank them when they help.
3. Be careful — reread once before you click Send.

Parts of an Email

Every email has the same building blocks. Knowing what each one does helps you send a message to the right people in the right way.

• To — the main person you are writing to.
• CC (carbon copy) — extra people who should also see the message.
• BCC (blind carbon copy) — extra people, but their names are hidden from everyone else.
• Subject — a short line that tells the reader what the email is about.
• Greeting — a polite opening like "Dear Ms. Lopez," or "Hi Sam,".
• Body — your message, written in clear sentences.
• Sign-off — a closing like "Thank you," or "Kind regards," followed by your name.

Polite Email Habits

• Use a clear subject line so the reader knows the topic at a glance.
• Greet the recipient by name — never start with no greeting at all.
• Write full words — avoid texting shortcuts like "u r" or "ttyl".
• Stay calm — wait if you are upset before you reply.
• Reread your email once and check for typos before sending.