How Do You Write a Memorandum Using the APA Format?
To write a memorandum in APA format, write a header, opening, summary or discussion, and closing segment following the general guidelines for business writing. Each segment takes up a certain portion of the memo and includes short headings to clarify the segment.
- Write the header
The header of a memo includes five important pieces of information, one on each line and left-justified on the top of the page. These include to whom the memo is addressed, from whom the memo comes, additional recipients of the memo, the date and the topic of the memo. This header takes one-eighth of the total memo’s space.
- Format the memo
Organize the memo into paragraphs, but do not indent. Each paragraph should have a heading. Double space between paragraphs and headers, but single space within each paragraph, as each should flow from general to specific information. Use formal language and long forms of words instead of contractions.
- Organize and write the memo
The opening paragraph should be two to three lines long; this segment takes one-fourth of the memo. Use the middle paragraphs to expand on and discuss the memo’s topic. These paragraphs take up one-half of the memo. Write a closing paragraph in which you make recommendations or suggestions for a course of action. Like the header, use one-eighth of the total length of the memo for this final paragraph.