英文便笺(Short Note) 是一种简短信函。它的形式比一般书信简单，多使用非正式语体。写便笺时要写清楚以下几项：
(1)时间：即某月某日，如Feb.11, 2005
(2)人名
(3)事由
注意月份的全拼及缩略形式，月份的缩略形式为：Jan., Feb., Mar., Apr., May , June, July, Aug., Sept., Oct., Nov., Dec.
【例一】
Wednesday, 21st March
Dear Prof. Rainman,
Im sorry I couldnt make our 11 oclock appointment. Prof. Wolfs lecture lasted a lot longer than I expected. I could meet you in the library Reading Room 4 tomorrow at 10, if that is convenient for you. If not, please leave a note in my mailbox ＃334, this afternoon.
Thank you,
Elizabeth
【例二】
2nd August
Ms. Zhao,
A friend of yours, Li Ping, made a long distance call from Xian this morning while you went out. She asked you to book an air ticket for Shanghai at 9 oclock, August 5, and make a reservation for hotel room tonight. I am sorry that I cant pass on the message to you in your presence, because I was ordered to do something urgent. See you then.
Mary
【例三】
7:30 a.m.
Dear Mr.David，
I very much regret I was unable to attend school this morning owing to a severe attack of illness. I am enclosing herewith a certificate from the doctor who is attending me, as he fears it will be several days before I shall be able to resume my study. I trust my enforced absence will not give you any serious inconvenience.
Sincerely yours,
Peter
【例四】
8:30 A.M.
Dear Peter:
I have done all my things here. I sincerely thank you for the trouble you have taken for my sake. I am leaving for home by train at two this afternoon. This is to say goodbye to you. Please kindly remember me to your wife.
Yours ever,
Jack
【例五】
May 2, 2001
Dear Lucy,
Can you think of a single good reason why you shouldnt spend next weekend with us? Ive just been out looking at the garden,and its beautiful,youll like it.
Also,Im going to have a young man here, a friend of Alvas. His name is Peter Groesbeck.Other information you can find out for yourself. Bring your bathing suit, we will meet your usual Saturday morning train.
Affectionately,
Alan Liu
