About
HopeThisEmail is a free library of practical email guides, templates and plain-English explanations for the emails you have to write.
Why this site exists
Most of us write dozens of emails a week, and a surprising number of them are hard: the thank-you note after an interview, the resignation email, the polite reminder to someone who hasn’t replied. HopeThisEmail exists to make those emails easier.
Every guide here aims to answer one question quickly, give you an example you can actually use, and then explain the details for anyone who wants them.
What you’ll find here
- Email writing guides: how to start an email, end it, and sign off.
- Email templates: copy-and-paste examples for job interviews, work, school and outreach.
- Email terms: plain-English meanings of CC, BCC, Re:, aliases and more.
- Gmail and Outlook help: step-by-step instructions for common tasks.
How we write our guides
- Answer first. The short answer is at the top of every page.
- Real examples. Templates are written to be sent with minimal editing.
- Plain English. No jargon, no filler, no 2,000-word introductions.
- Kept up to date. Gmail and Outlook change their menus regularly. Each guide shows when it was last updated, and we revise them when things change.
Spotted a mistake?
If something is out of date or could be clearer, please let us know. We read every message.
Browse the guides
Email Writing Guides
How to start an email, how to end it, which greeting and sign-off to use, and the phrases that make everyday emails clear and polite.
Email Templates and Examples
Ready-to-use email templates for job interviews, follow-ups, resignations, out-of-office replies, school and everyday work. Copy, edit, send.
Email Terms and Abbreviations
Plain-English meanings of common email terms and abbreviations, from CC, BCC and Re: to FYI, EOD, OOO and PFA.
Gmail and Outlook Help
Simple step-by-step guides for everyday Gmail and Outlook tasks, from unsending and recalling emails to changing your signature.