Article: Begin your thank you letter by addressing the person in the way that feels most natural. In almost every situation, starting with "Dear [person's name]," is appropriate. Whether the note is for your best friend, your teacher or your mom, this works. If you're looking for something a little more personal, try:  "Dearest __," "Hi, __," "My friend," "To my favorite _____," Thank you notes are usually short and to the point, so start by thanking the person right away. Be specific about what you're grateful for. Describing the gift a little will make it clear that you've thought about it and it's something you cherish.  "Thank you so much for the darling pair of leggings you gave to Leigh!" "You are such a dear for coming to my opening night." "I am very grateful for your assistance with my senior project this semester." "Without you, I wouldn't be the student, or person, that I am today." Even if you don't absolutely love the gift, think about the trouble and expense the person went to for your benefit. Show them that this effort, and the gift itself, is important to you. Try to be honest and sincere.  "She has been begging me for a pair of leggings lately! They fit her just right, and she has a red dress that matches them perfectly. They'll be put to good use this winter." "You are such a dear for coming to my opening night. It made me happy to see your bright smile in the audience. Knowing you were there helped calm my stage fright." "I am very grateful for your assistance with my senior project this semester. You have a lot of students depending on you, and I really appreciate your taking the time to give me so much individual attention." "You did not have to take the time to mentor and meet with me -- most people wouldn't -- but your passion and patience has left an impact on me that I will never wear out. Now that you've expressed your gratitude, it's nice to write another few lines that show you care about the person. Ask some questions, and share information about your life. This makes all the difference between a dashed-off note and an actual thank you letter, and the recipient will take even more pleasure in receiving your words. For example, you could write,  "It was fun to catch up with you at the party. How are things going with Bobby's soccer team? He has natural talent, that boy. Leigh has been asking about him every day. We can't wait to see you this Christmas." "Will you be returning to New York again soon? Next time, I want to take you to dinner at my favorite spot. It'll be nice to have a full-length conversation, rather than rushing to catch up backstage!" "I wish you the best with your research this summer, and look forward to seeing you at the NSTA conference in the fall." "Best of luck with your new responsibilities and projects. I'm eagerly awaiting the chance to see what you do next, and to keep learning from you from afar." To wrap things up nicely, let them know how much you appreciate their friendship and love. You don't even have to bring up the gift again. Just thank them for being them.  "Friends like you are the best part of this town, and I'm looking forward to the day we can sit down together and catch up." "Your support throughout my career shows just how incredible of a friend you are. Your warmth, generosity, and kindness mean the world to me." "You give the college a good name, and embody everything I love about my school. I hope I can one day pay it forward to students of my own." "Anytime you want to talk, collaborate, or share a cup of coffee, you know where to find me. A conversation with you is something I could never turn down." Think about the nature of your relationship and choose the closing that seems most appropriate. If you can't decide, it's fine to just sign your name. Here are a few examples of popular closings:   To a loved one: Love, Much love, Hugs and Kisses, All my love, Yours,  To a friend: Cheers, Thanks again, Warmly, See you soon, Many thanks,  To a colleague: Sincerely, Gratefully yours, Respectfully yours, Best wishes
What is a summary of what this article is about?
Open with a salutation. Express your gratitude sincerely. Let them know why their specific gift is cherished. Inquire after the other person or share a little news. Let them know you appreciate them one last time. Close the letter.