Which of the following best avoids a long lead-in?
A This is to advise you that we will send the information you requested.
B Yes, we will send the information you requested.
C I am writing this letter to inform you that we will send the information you requested.
D You may be interested to learn that we will send the information you requested.
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is: B. Yes, we will send the information you requested.
Explanation (about 300 words):
In professional writing, clarity and conciseness are highly valued. A “long lead-in” refers to the unnecessary introductory phrases that delay the main point of a message. Effective communication delivers the essential information quickly, without forcing the reader to wade through extra, redundant words.
Option B (“Yes, we will send the information you requested.”) is the best choice because it is direct, concise, and immediately informative. It answers the presumed inquiry straightforwardly without any padding or delay. The reader instantly understands the action being taken.
Now, let’s briefly review the other options:
- A (“This is to advise you that we will send the information you requested.”) introduces unnecessary words like “This is to advise you that,” which serve no real purpose. The key message is buried under this formal but redundant lead-in.
- C (“I am writing this letter to inform you that we will send the information you requested.”) is even longer. It includes a double introduction (“I am writing this letter to inform you”), making the sentence needlessly wordy and less reader-friendly.
- D (“You may be interested to learn that we will send the information you requested.”) also uses an indirect approach. The phrase “You may be interested to learn that” suggests uncertainty and creates distance between the reader and the message.
In business and professional communication, brevity signals respect for the reader’s time and emphasizes efficiency. Option B eliminates unnecessary phrases and quickly reassures the reader that their request is being fulfilled. Thus, it best avoids a long lead-in and represents good writing style, particularly in business letters, emails, and formal memos.