To create a memo in Word, the quickest route is a template: click File > New, search for memo, pick a design, and click Create. Then fill in the To, From, Date and Subject lines and write your message. You can also build one from a blank document with a bold “MEMORANDUM” title, a heading block, a line, and the body text.
Quick Answer
File > New > search memo > choose a template > Create > fill in the fields.
Method 1: Use a Memo Template
- Open Word and click File > New.
- Type memo in the search box and press Enter.
- Choose a template and click Create.
- Click each placeholder and replace it with your text.
- Save with File > Save As.
Method 2: Make a Memo From Scratch
- Open a blank document and type MEMORANDUM at the top. Make it bold and larger.
- Add the heading lines: TO:, FROM:, DATE:, SUBJECT:. Press Tab after each label so the entries line up.
- Add a line under the heading block: type three hyphens (—) and press Enter, or use a bottom border.
- Write the body in short paragraphs. Start with the main point.
- Add any attachments or “cc” line at the end.
Memo Parts
| Part | What to include |
|---|---|
| TO | Recipients’ names and titles, or a group (“All Staff”) |
| FROM | Your name and title |
| DATE | Full date (Insert > Date & Time) |
| SUBJECT | A short, specific topic |
| Body | Purpose first, then details, then any action needed and deadlines |
| CC / Attachments | Optional, at the bottom |
Formatting Tips
- Use 1-inch margins and a readable 11 or 12 pt font.
- Use bullets for lists of actions or dates.
- Save your finished layout as a template: File > Save As > Word Template (.dotx).
- For a reusable heading block, save it as a Quick Part.
For name order and initials, see formatting names on official documents.
Troubleshooting
- Template search shows nothing: Online templates need an internet connection and may be turned off by your organization.
- A line appeared that won’t delete: It’s a paragraph border. See paragraph borders in Word.
- Heading lines don’t align: Use a tab stop or a two-column table without borders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a memo need a signature?
Not usually. Some writers add their initials next to their name in the FROM line.
How long should a memo be?
Ideally one page. Put details in attachments if needed.
Summary
- Use File > New and search for a memo template.
- Or type MEMORANDUM and the To, From, Date, Subject lines.
- Keep the body short and action-focused.
- Save your layout as a template for next time.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.