5 tips for efficient email writing for people with ADHD

person writing an email with ADHD

Email is a crucial form of communication in both personal and professional settings, but for people with ADHD, the act of writing and reading emails can be particularly challenging.

Quick recap, what is ADHD?

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects executive function skills such as organization, time management, and task initiation. These difficulties can make it difficult for individuals with ADHD to effectively communicate through written mediums like email.

With a few strategies and tools, people with ADHD can improve their email writing skills and communicate more efficiently.

Here are three tips for efficient email writing for people with ADHD:

Tip #1: Keep it short and to the point

One of the keys to effective email communication is brevity.

Emails that are too long or rambling can be overwhelming and confusing for both the sender and the recipient. To make emails shorter and more to the point, try using bullet points to organize information, and avoid using unnecessary words or filler phrases.

Keep the focus on the main points and try to eliminate any extraneous details.

Tip #2: Use clear subject lines and formatting

A clear and descriptive subject line is important for quickly and accurately conveying the purpose of an email. It helps the recipient know what to expect and decide whether to prioritize reading the email or not.

In addition, using formatting like bold and italicized text, as well as organizing information into lists or tables, can make emails easier to read and navigate.

These techniques can help people with ADHD better process the information and stay focused on the content of the email.

Tip #3: Send voice notes per email

For individuals with ADHD who may struggle with the cognitive demands of traditional text-based email communication, using email extensions like Vocal can be a powerful productivity enhancer.

Vocal allows users to record their voice and send voice messages via email, which can be more efficient and effective for communicating ideas and information.

With Vocal, users can avoid the mental effort of typing and editing text, and can express themselves more naturally and clearly through their voice.

Additionally, voice messages can be played back and replayed as needed, which can be helpful for those who may need to review information multiple times.

Tip #4: Use templates for repetitive emails

For people with ADHD, writing the same type of email over and over again can be a tedious and draining task. To save time and energy, consider using templates for emails that you send frequently.

This can include templates for emails such as status updates, meeting requests, or thank you notes. Creating templates can also help ensure that you are consistently using the same language and formatting, which can improve the clarity and professionalism of your emails.

Tip #5: Take breaks and practice self-care

Email writing can be mentally exhausting, especially for those with ADHD who may struggle with focus and attention. It is important to take breaks and practice self-care to prevent burnout and maintain productivity.

This can include taking short breaks to stretch or walk around, setting aside specific times of the day to check and respond to emails, and incorporating relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation into your daily routine. By prioritizing self-care, you can better manage the mental demands of email writing and communicate more effectively.

Conclusion

In conclusion, effective email writing is an important skill for anyone, but it can be particularly challenging for people with ADHD. By keeping emails short and to the point, using clear subject lines and formatting, and utilizing tools like Vocal (send voice notes per email), individuals with ADHD can improve their email communication skills and communicate more efficiently.