Posted: March 17th, 2022

How to Write a Thank You Note (Samples Included)

People have always struggled to say Thank You to someone they admire and love. You feel gratitude when someone goes out of their way to help you, treat you well, and welcome you. The feeling is amplified if you express your appreciation in a Thank You note.

Today, you can thank people in multiple ways, such as emails, text messages, and phone calls. And one best way you can thank someone is by writing a handwritten thank you note or thank you card. You may not repay for what they did to you but can write a thoughtful, warm and heartfelt gratitude message.

We have got you covered if you want to know more about thank you messages, what to write in a thank you card, or how to write a thank-you note. This is the ultimate thank you note writing guide.

How to write a Thank You Note 

First of all, it is crucial to know the anatomy of Writing Thank You Notes. Irrespective of your writing purpose, this is applicable for every thank you note. You may change things for some specific places, but overall, the idea remains the same.

Have these five crucial steps in your mind when beginning to write a Thank You Note. 

Start the Thank You Note with a Salutation 

You need to start the Thank You Note by addressing the recipient with a proper salutation.

You should keep some things in mind when starting the Thank You Note with a formal or informal salutation.

If you know the recipient very well and the Thank You Card is not formal, like writing to a teacher, you may use their first name as a greeting.

For instance, if you have spent a summer semester with a friend and had great memories together. It is OK to address them with their first name. 

You don’t know someone very well but want to write a Thank You Note. Then be formal and use Mr. Or Mrs. before their name. Some salutation examples are as below.

• Dear Mr. Mark 
• Dear Ms. Michelle 
• Jimmy!
• Dear Uncle Erick
• Dear Mr. and Mrs. Michael,

Make it brief, and Thank Them.

As you probably know why you want to thank someone. So don’t make the note too long; make it brief, simple, and thank them.

The main aim of a thank you card is to express your thankfulness, and it is better to say that without delay.

Always remember the most crucial point: For what you are thanking them.

• Thank you so much for being with me in such challenging times.
• I love your birthday gift, thanks very much.
• Thanks very much for your excellent wedding gift. 
• I learned a lot from your class. Thanks very much, sir.
• Thanks very much for providing me with an internship opportunity at your company.
• The gift was fabulous. You made my day.
• I don’t have words to thank. I am grateful, and all I can say is wow.

Include an important detail or two

Suppose you have had a great time with someone and received a gift from someone. People love to be appreciated for that. But don’t try to exaggerate things if you received a gift from someone and want to thank them. For example, if that’s not the best gift you have received so far. Don’t overdo things.

However, find one essential and positive point that you are thankful for. Thank them for that, and they will more than appreciate it.

Tell them which of their contributions have positively impacted you. 

• Your teachings have been beneficial for me. Recently, I attempted a scholarship test and passed it. I appreciate the extra mile you went to help us understand the concept better and clearly.
• I wore the watch you gifted me and got some great compliments about it.
• It was a pleasure getting to know your company and learning about the role of an executive. 

Tell me about future meetings. 

You are, of course, excited about what they did for you. But don’t forget to appreciate them for being an essential person in your life.

Even though this may not be the same in every scenario: you can mention future meetings in the note, If you are likely to meet the person soon. 

• I  would love to see you as our teacher next semester.
• I am genuinely interested in working in your company and am looking forward to hearing from you. 
• I am very excited to have dinner and meet up with you guys.
• Next month I will come to your city for an interview. Very excited to see you there.

Sign off the Thank You Note 

You started with the word thank, and it’s time to reuse that word. So thanks again to the particular person and sign off the note.

It is not mandatory to use top-level language, to sound formal and professional. Some sign-off examples for ending a Thank You Note are as below.

• It means a lot that you remembered and wished me on my birthday, thanks!
• Thanks for thinking about me. It means a lot.
• Thanks again for being so generous.
• I have learned numerous things from you. Thanks again for being my best teacher.

Now that you have revisited from where you started, that is Thank You. It is time to end the Thank You Note in a pleasant and respectful tone. 

Think of the relationship you have with the recipient and sign off accordingly. You can either be casual or professional. 

• Best Regards 
• With Love
• Warmly 
• Your buddy 
• Sincerely 
• Kind regards 

More About Writing a Thank You Note – Four W way 

We hope now you have a crystal clear idea about thank you messages, and how to write a Thank You Note. Let’s dive into some easy tips that can make the process easy.

Most of us find starting the Thank Note difficult. The Four W way will help clear most of your confusion. These are Who, Why, What, When.

• Of course, the first step is to know all those people who you want to thank. And know what your relationship with them looks like, whether casual and formal, or professional.

• Then it’s time to know why. For example, they have helped you in your exams and given you gifts, so you want to thank them for their time and efforts to bring some joy and happiness into your life. A teacher went the next mile to help you in a subject you were weak in; you may want to thank him. , know precisely why you want to thank someone.

• The third one is What to write in a thank-you note or write a Thank Note. We have explained it in detail above with five steps.

• The last one is when to write a Thank You note. It is always better to send it as soon as possible. If you want to thank someone for giving you a gift on your birthday, it is better to thank them within a week or so. If you send them a thank you note after a month, then you may apologize for being late and state a reason for it. But late is always better than not sending ever.  

Essential Dos and DON’Ts of writing a best Thank You Note 

Dos of a Thank You Note

• Send the Thank you note as soon as possible. 
• Select stationery keeping the recipient and situation in mind
• Surprise amplifies the feelings of a thank you note. You may thank someone who doesn’t expect it and make it a surprise.
• Perform a double check if everything is ok and in order _ such as spellings, words, and sentences 

DON’Ts of a Thank You Note 

• Firstly, if you are late, don’t excuse me for writing the Thank you note.
• Only text is not enough in a Thank You Note – the extra efforts you put in writing a gratitude message reflect how you respect the recipient. 
• Don’t write very long and confusing thank you notes.
• Don’t send a pre-printed thank you note

How to Write a Thank-You Note to a Teacher

Teachers are one of the most influential persons in one’s life. They educate us about specific subjects or topics and overall impact our lives and shape our personality. 

So there are times when both parents and students want to thank them for the extra mile they went through to leave an impact on you.

Writing a Thank You Note to a teacher is one of the best ways to express appreciation and gratitude. If they have helped you in your life, you can sincerely and thoughtfully show what you feel about that with the help of Thank You Note. And as I said before, a handwritten Thank you note is more important than a mobile typed one.

Now we will discuss Thank notes to Teacher From Parents and Thank messages to teacher from students, respectively. 

Thank you note to a teacher from a parent

Firstly, we have done a general breakdown on How to write a Thank You note. But here, we will discuss how you can thank your child’s teacher for helping them as a parent. 

1. Have a piece of paper to get started

Whenever we want to have some information about a specific topic, we brainstorm first. The same is the case here.

Jot down on the piece of paper all words and memories that appear in your mind when you think of this teacher. You will have a rough idea after brainstorming what you’re going to write in the thank you note for the teacher. 

Then it comes to organizing all your thoughts and knowing the main points you want to mention in the Thank You Note. Also, find out what and why you want to thank this individual teacher. For example, you can think of these things.

• Have you ever met the teacher? If you did, then what good or positive experience did you have? 
• The experience of your child’s with the teacher and if they have told you something good about the teacher.
• What Informations you have about the teacher: what kind of person he is like.
• If you were to describe the teacher with someone, how would you do that?
• If the same teacher wanted to write you a Thank You Note, how would he do it?

2. Handwritten Thank You Notes are best.

Adding a personal touch into a thank you note is critical. You can do that by writing a handwritten Thank You note, not typing it on a computer.

You may also use match envelopes and decorated cards included in packs that many office supply stores sell.

You can use a blank page. This allows you and your child to add some artwork. Making personal art is as great as using stationery items in your Thank You Note for Teacher. Because hand art and drawings give the Thank you card a personal touch.

3. Formally Address the teacher.

It would help if you addressed your child’s teacher formally. It shows professionalism. Write the exact name of the teacher similarly as used by students.

Start with “Dear Mr. James” instead of “Hey James.”

4. It’s time to formulate the Thank You Note. 

It is time to start writing the Thank You Note. You can do so by referring back to all notes you made at step 1.

After greeting, you can thank them for something they did that helped your child. You can use simple words whose meanings are clear to you and keep the sentences short.

For example, you may write the following things.

• My daughter/son has learned valuable knowledge from you. ( You may also give here any relevant information).
• Appreciate the teacher for something they did which helped your child grow. 
• Or Thanks very much for a fantastic year.
• You may also appreciate something the teacher did or a fun memory you shared with them.

5. Put all the notes together.

A customized thank you card is best, reflecting that it is only made for that individual teacher. Think of how you can customize that letter.

Be polite and always find a point to praise them for their struggle even if you have never met the teacher.

• If you and your child consider them great teachers, then jot down your positive experiences in some sentences. For example, “Michael has learned a lot of knowledge from the writing project. The project provided him with a love of writing. He writes daily and enjoys it.” 
• Even if the experience with this teacher was not vital, you could still think of something they did well and thank them for that in particular. For example, you may say, ” I am thankful that you gave extra attention to Jimmy. He was not good at science, and I see great improvements in him because of your tutoring.” 

6. Sign the Thank You Card

Before signing the card, thank the teacher again and include a formality with your signature. For example: 

• Sincerely 
• Best Regards 
• Your truly 
• Kind regards
• With warmest regards etc

7. Involve your child 

Involving your child in writing a thank you note for teacher aid in including something additional which can give a personal touch to the letter. For example, you and your child can draw beautiful artwork or drawings. Also, your child can write a separate Thank You Note for the teacher. 

You may also help your child arrange some cutouts from materials received in the respective class. Then decorate, color, sign, and include them in the Thank You Card. 

• Help your child write a best and short thank you note in elementary. If your child has artistic abilities, you can tell them to make their teacher’s picture or picture of something exciting and vital they remember for that class. Drawing doodles is a great thing too. 
• You can help students from the middle or high class write one page about all those great memories in the class.
• If your child’s needs are more than drawing pictures to the best of their abilities. Together decorate the card by using drawings, stickers, etc.

8. Send them a gift along with Thank You Note (optional)

Including a gift is not mandatory, but you may also include a gift in your Thank You Note. You can find lots of gifts that you can have in the Thank You Card that are inexpensive. 

• Flower:  With your child, you can collect a bouquet and send them to the teacher. 
• Plant: You may also give the teacher an indoor plant. It would be best if you included a vase with the plant.
• Gift them a book related to the subject they teach or a general book
• You may also give them a gift card worth not less than $10 to $20.

9. Deliver or Mail the Thank You Note to the teacher

After you’re done with all the other steps, it’s finally time to either deliver the Thank You Card yourself or mail it. 

Thank you note to a Teacher From a Student

Now let’s talk about writing a Thank You Note to your teacher. The following steps will help you write a unique Thank You Note to your teacher.

1. A handwritten Thank You Note

A handwritten note is the best way to Thank your teacher, and it is also very appreciated. Meanwhile, you have graduated or are unaware of the teacher’s address and just know their mail. In this case, go for writing the Thank You Letter in the email and then send it.

2. It’s time to do some brainstorming. 

Brainstorm helps you know about different ideas you have about the teacher. Think of how this teacher has improved and made a difference in your life. What is it specifically for which you want to Thank the teacher? 

Write some sentences that best show the experience you had with the teacher. 

• Be sincere and transparent and make the note a brief one.
• It is not crucial to mention why you are writing the letter. Without stating the apparent reason, you may thank them.
• For example, don’t start with ” I am writing to thank you for_____.” Just Thank Them. 

3. Address your teacher formally 

When starting your Thank You Letter or Thank You Note, say hello formally. Or the way you say hello in class. You can use their first name in the letter.

• Start with “Dear,” which is more formal and professional, instead of “Hello.” 
• Ensure that you write the letter on the best stationery.

4. Thank Them 

Write some sentences explaining why specifically you are thanking the teacher. Make it simple. Your Thank You Note to the teacher will be more potent if you use relevant examples. You may use the following phrases.

• Thank you for teaching me Math. Your teaching has strengthened my base.
• You have helped me be a better student.
• Thank you for being generous and answering all of my questions with the most straightforward words
• Thank you for being the best teacher.

5. Build a connection with your teacher

When teachers teach you, they expect that you learn something. With the help of some powerful words, you can express what positive impact their class had on you. Your teachers, like every individual, want to be appreciated for their struggle so tell them how they matter to you.

• Inform them if their teaching inspired you to learn additional knowledge on the subject outside the course.
• In short, let them know of anything you are grateful for because they have performed their duty.

6. Sign off the Thank You Note 

Once More, thank them and then write your name. Also, include your contact info if you want to maintain future relationships with them. Below are some best signatures to use in sign-off.

• Sincerely
• Best Regards
• With Kind regards
• Your truly 
• Warmest regards
• Our deepest thanks

7. Deliver or Mail the letter 

If you can, deliver the letter yourself to the teacher. Also, you may mail it or put the letter in the teacher’s mailbox. Emailing the Thank You Note should be your last option if you don’t know the teacher’s address. 

But when you thank your teacher in an email, ensure that you use the institution-provided email address. Also, beware that the email’s subject line is evident, for example, ” Thank You Note from Kevin.” 

How to add a personal touch to a Thank You Note

Adding a personal touch is also the best way to connect to someone. You can add a personal touch to your Thank You Note for the teacher if you tell a story, mention a quote, and there are several other ways to add a personal touch to your writing. 

• Tell a great story

Recall back how you felt on your first day of school and how you felt before and after a complicated exam. Express to them in inspiring writing how the first day of their class looked like from your point of view. Moreover, it is best to tell them how you saw them shaped in an upward manner.

• Mention a quote 

Mentioning a quote that you learned from the same teacher’s class is a great way to connect. You can also include a quote that you learned outside the class. It is in particular best to have a quote in the Thank You Note if your teacher teaches English.

• Write about class fun memories. 

We often have some fun memories in our classes. Add any fun memories you had from the course. Always try to stress your joke on the subject.

Samples of a Thank You Note to a teacher

Thank You Note To a Teacher From a Parent

“Dear Miss Maria,

Thanks very much for giving extra attention to my child in her science subject. I can see a lot of improvements in his science subject after your teaching. You have left a significant impact on him (her)! Thanks again very much for all this.

Best regards, 

Mrs. Julia, (Child)’s Mom”

Thank you note to a Teacher From a Student

Dear Mr. Kevin, 

I just got the news of my results, and I have scored excellent marks. I just wanted to thank you for helping me and giving me extra time when things were unclear. It would not have been possible without your efforts. You have helped me not only grow academically but also as an individual. I appreciate your dedication and efforts in teaching students the right way.

Thank you! 

“Dear Mr. White,

I want to let you know that teaching has often brought me a significant impact while I was in 10th grade. You gave extra attention and time to me so that no academic confusion was left. With your help, I became more interested in the subject I frankly didn’t like very much. Not only have you helped me with your subject math, but you also motivated me when I was about to give up on the subject or no longer interested in moving on.

Without you, I would not have conquered my fear and moved forward to learn mathematics. Currently, I am studying mathematics at university and love it. Thanks very much for everything you have done for me.

Best Regards, 

Adam

A Simple Thank You Note For a Teacher

Dear Ms. Sophia,

Thank you very much for all the efforts you put into teaching students the best way. We, as parents, feel so blessed that you are the teacher of our child. He (she) admires you and shares all learning and class activities.

Sincerely, 

Mr. Daniel 

Thank note to teacher from parents during covid

Dear Will, 

No doubt, the previous two years were hard for everyone. But your contributions persisted for countless hours, whether ensuring that students have the curriculum, innovating new teaching methods, or taking parent-teacher calls to talk about student progress. Thanks very much for going above your call of duty, and we salute your perseverance, patience, and empathy.

Best regards, 

Mr. Micahel, Smith’s Father

Thank you note for teacher for online classes

Dear Mr. James 

The covid pandemic shifted all educational activities online, but you have completed all the syllabus and went beyond to help us cover the curriculum. Thanks for all the extra effort you put in to help me and other students grow. I salute your commitment to your duty. 

Thanks,

Bond 

10 Thank you quotes for teachers 

Some wise words of great personalities encourage us and motivate us to do better. These words make our thank you card to the teacher more unique. So here are some thank you quotes for teachers that you may use in a thank you note.

• “I am indebted to my father for living, but to my teacher for living well.” Alexander the Great

• “A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.”

Henry Brooks Adams

• “If you can read this, thank a teacher.”

American Proverb

• “The great teacher is not the man who supplies the most facts, but the one in whose presence we become different people.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson

• “Education breeds confidence. Confidence breeds hope. Hope breeds peace.”

Confucius

• “A good teacher is like a candle – it consumes itself to light the way for others.”

Mustafa Kemal Ataturk

• “It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge.”

Albert Einstein

• “Better than a thousand days of diligent study is one day with a great teacher.” 

Japanese Proverb

• “A teacher takes a hand, opens a mind, and touches a heart.”

Unknown

• “I think the teaching profession contributes more to the future of our society than any other single profession.” 

John Wooden

Conclusion

Sometimes we fear that the recipient misinterprets our thank you note, and he will be uncomfortable about it. Other times, we don’t know the right words to express our gratitude. But we know that it is important to thank people as it gives them a feeling that their efforts are never vain. They love hearing from you.

We hope that all of the information explained above on how to write a thank-you note will help you write a better gratitude note. But to give it a summary, you should care about some things in your thank you letter.

• Keep the Thank you note genuine. The aim of your writing should be how someone has positively impacted you. Be sincere, and you should not have any other plan.
• Express to them what you appreciate and why. So they should be the reason for the way you feel about them.
• The next part is sending the Thank you note. As we have said before, handwritten Thank you notes are best. Write your thank you message on the piece of paper; you may decorate or put some artwork on it. And you may also include a gift. Lastly, you can directly give the Thank you card to the person and mail it to their address.

FAQs

What to say in a thank-you note?

In a thank you note, you tell about your gratitude and thank the recipient with the help of some beautiful words. For example, 

“I’m humbled and grateful.”

“You’re the best.”

“Thanks for making my day.”

“Your words mean a lot to me. Thanks.” 

“The gift you sent was fabulous.”

What is the best gift to give to a teacher?

You need to be aware that some schools restrict their staff from accepting certain gifts. Therefore, be careful about what skills you give to your teacher.

Check with the school’s rules about gifts for teachers, If there are some. After that, think of something your teacher likes and then purchase that.

But the essential gift for a teacher is when you thank them for the positive impact on your life. A positive thank you note will be long-lasting compared to the material. 

What are some warm closings for a thank you Note?

On top of your thank-you message, a warm closing is like a bow. You may choose one of them or create your own.

Thank you,

Warmly,

Lots of love,

With gratitude,

God bless you, 

Beyond grateful,

Love,

Best regards,

Sincerely, 

Kind regards,

How to write a Thank You Note?

Follow all the steps and guidelines explained above. We hope they help you write an excellent Thank You Note for a teacher or someone else.

Read more:

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• Frequently Asked Question