Workplace mistakes can be costly! It’s not just the lost productivity — it’s also the potential for embarrassment. One of the most common workplace mistakes is the erratum in email. An erratum is a correction or an apology for an error that has been made. It’s important to know how to write an erratum in email so that you can correct your mistakes and maintain your professional reputation.
The Best Structure for an Erratum in Email
Mistakes happen, and when they do, it’s important to acknowledge the error and correct it as quickly as possible. If you’ve made a mistake in an email, the best way to correct it is to send an erratum.
An erratum is a correction or clarification that is sent after the original message has been sent. Errata can be used to correct errors of fact, grammar, or spelling. They can also be used to clarify confusing or ambiguous language.
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When writing an erratum, it is important to use a clear and concise subject line. The subject line should indicate that the email is an erratum, and it should also briefly describe the error that is being corrected.
In the body of the erratum, be sure to:
1. Clearly identify the error that you are correcting.
2. Provide the correct information.
3. Apologize for the error.
You may also want to include a brief explanation of how the error occurred.
Once you have written the erratum, be sure to send it to all of the recipients of the original email.
Formatting Your Erratum
There is no one-size-fits-all format for errata, but there are some general guidelines that you can follow.
- Use a clear and concise subject line.
- Identify the error that you are correcting.
- Provide the correct information.
- Apologize for the error.
- Keep the erratum brief and to the point.
Example of an Erratum
Subject: Erratum: Sent wrong attachment
Body:
I am writing to apologize for the error in my previous email. I accidentally sent the wrong attachment. The correct attachment is attached to this email.
I apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
Table of Examples of Errata
| Error | Correction |
|—|—|
| Sent wrong attachment | Attached correct attachment |
| Incorrect date | Corrected date |
| Spelling error | Corrected spelling |
| Grammatical error | Corrected grammar |
| Ambiguous language | Clarified language |
Erratum: Informing Readers of Mistakes with Courtesy and Clarity
Example 1: Acknowledging a Typographical Error
We regret to inform you that the original email contained a typographical error. The correct information is as follows:
Original: Due to the recent storm, our office will be **close** on Monday, February 12th.
Corrected: Due to the recent storm, our office will be **closed** on Monday, February 12th.
Example 2: Amending Incomplete Information
In the previous email, we inadvertently omitted a crucial piece of information.
- The updated email now includes the missing data:
Previous email: Please RSVP by Friday, March 1st.
Updated email: Please RSVP by Friday, March 1st, to confirm your attendance.
Example 3: Correcting a Numerical Error
We apologize for the numerical error in the original email.
Original: The deadline for submitting proposals is April **15th**.
Corrected: The deadline for submitting proposals is April **10th**.
Example 4: Addressing a Miscommunication
Due to a miscommunication within our team, the previous email contained incorrect information.
- We have since corrected the error and provide the updated information below:
Original: The new employee orientation will be held virtually.
Corrected: The new employee orientation will be held in person at our office.
Example 5: Updating Outdated Information
Please note that the information in the previous email is now outdated.
We have made the following updates to ensure the most accurate and up-to-date information is provided:
- Updated event dates and times
- Added additional details regarding registration procedures
- Revised contact information for inquiries
Example 6: Providing Missing Attachments
We apologize for the inconvenience. We have attached the missing file for your reference.
Original: Please find the attached employee performance review template.
Updated: Please find the attached employee performance review template and grading rubric.
Example 7: Formal Apology and Comprehensive Correction
We sincerely apologize for the errors contained in the previous email. We understand the importance of accurate and timely communication.
We have reviewed the email thoroughly and have made the following corrections:
- Corrected the submission deadline
- Updated the meeting date and time
- Added the missing agenda items
- Revised the contact information for the event coordinator
We have attached a revised email for your reference. Again, we apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.
What is an Erratum in Email?
An erratum in email is a correction to an error in a previously sent email message. It is typically issued when an error is discovered after the email has been sent and delivered to the recipient. Errata can be used to correct factual errors, typos, or other mistakes that may have been made in the original email.
Subject: Email erratum Predicate: corrects errors in previously sent email Object: email
Attributes: discovered after sending, factual errors, typos
Value: error correction
How to Write an Erratum in Email
To write an erratum in email, follow these steps:
- Start the email with a concise subject line that indicates that the email is an erratum, such as "Erratum: Previous Email."
- In the body of the email, clearly state the error that is being corrected. Be specific about the location of the error, such as the line number or paragraph where it appears.
- Provide the correct information that should replace the incorrect information.
- Apologize for the error and any inconvenience it may have caused.
- Send the erratum to the same recipient as the original email.
Subject: Erratum: Previous Email Predicate: state error and provide correction Object: email
Attributes: concise subject line, error location, correct information
Value: clarity, apology for inconvenience
When to Send an Erratum in Email
An erratum in email should be sent as soon as possible after the error is discovered. This will help to minimize any confusion or inconvenience that the error may cause. Errata should be sent even for minor errors, such as typos or grammatical errors.
Subject: Erratum: Previous Email Predicate: send as soon as possible Object: email
Attributes: minor errors, typos, grammatical errors
Value: minimize confusion and inconvenience
Well, that’s all for now, folks! Thanks for sticking with us while we cleared up that little email snafu. Remember to check back later for more updates, musings, and all sorts of interesting stuff. In the meantime, stay curious and keep your inbox organized!