Structure matters. Avoid sending a wall of words. Instead, start every message with a greeting of no more than 8 words. (For example: “That was an interesting meeting yesterday.”)

Then use the ABC method to divide your e-mail into 3 distinct sections: Action (stating your purpose), Background (presenting your key points), and Close (clarifying the next steps).

Save purposefully. Searching for an old e-mail can eat up untold amounts of time, so be picky about what you save. Ask yourself: What are the odds I’ll need this information later?

10 ways to get a grip on your e-mail

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  5. David Allen on Getting Email Under Control – Free PDF