How to Write a Professional Email: "I missed class" example

Email is the most common way to communicate and conduct business. It is the first impression you may have on some so you want to make sure you do it correctly. Here are a few tips on how to write a professional email.

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• "I missed class" example
• "Help on lecture information" example

Do's

• Greet the instructor in a profession way
• Be honest
• Look at the syllabus, This is the go to guide for what you missed in the lecture
• Give a BRIEF description as to why you missed class
• Ask can you come to office hours for help
• If that is not acceptable
• Ask for the Grad assistants information or a reliable student for the notes
• Apologize for missing class

Don'ts

• Greet the instructor as your friend
• Lie
• Ignore the syllabus
• Tell the instructor to give you anything, this includes course work and excused absences. Instead, try asking
• Emailing the instructor constantly

Example

Dear Professor Williams,

I was unable to attend Biology class yesterday (Wednesday, August 30) due to being under the weather. I understand from a classmate that a handout regarding the next lab assignment was distributed. The syllabus indicates that your office hours are between 1:00-3:00pm on Friday. Would you be available in your office this Friday so I can receive the lab assignment and ask for clarification on the material presented in class? I appreciate your time and look forward to speaking with you soon.

Biology 242 Section 003

Sorry I missed some of your Biology classes but I was sick with a stomach ache for the last two weeks. Yeah, sucked to be me L. I hope this doesn’t mess with my grade too much cause it wasn’t my fault that I was sick. They should give us better food at school. I don’t have a doctor’s note because I was just taking over the counter stuff and didn’t need a prescription for them. I feel a lot better and should be back real soon. Just dropping a line to let you know. Hope I didn’t miss too much.