Hey there! Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you need to share documents or information via email or report, but want to sound polite and professional? That’s where saying "Please see attached" comes into play. But did you know there are many other ways to convey the same message in a more polished, varied, and effective manner?
Today, I’ll walk you through professional alternatives to "Please see attached", why they matter, common pitfalls, and tips to master this communication skill effortlessly. Whether you're a student, professional, or anyone who deals with written correspondence, understanding these variations will boost your clarity and professionalism.
Why Bother Exploring Variations to "Please See Attached"?
Using just "Please see attached" can sometimes sound a little plain or even repetitive, especially in formal emails or reports. By expanding your vocabulary and phrasing, you enhance your communication’s tone, clarity, and effectiveness. Plus, varied language keeps your emails engaging—making it easier for the recipient to understand the importance of the attachment without sounding redundant or dismissive.
Let's get into the detailed, professional ways you can say "please see attached" and why they’re beneficial.
The Top Professional Alternatives to "Please See Attached"
1. Kindly Find the Attached Document
Why use it?
This phrase is polite and formal, ideal for professional emails where you want to show respect and courtesy.
Example:
Kindly find the attached report for your review.
2. Attached is the Document for Your Reference
Use it when:
You want to make clear the attachment is for their review, not necessarily requiring action.
Example:
Attached is the contract for your reference.
3. Please Review the Attached File
Best for:
Requests that need action or feedback.
Example:
Please review the attached file and share your feedback.
4. I am Sending You the Attached Files
Usage:
More conversational, suitable in less formal contexts but still professional.
Example:
I am sending you the attached files related to our project.
5. Please See the Enclosed Document
When to use:
Primarily in formal letters or emails when physical or digital enclosure is involved.
Example:
Please see the enclosed document for your consideration.
6. Find the Document Attached for Your Review
Why:
It emphasizes that the recipient should examine the attached document.
Example:
Find the attached document for your review and approval.
7. The Document is Attached Below/Here
Use in:
More casual or internal communications, especially when attachments are embedded within the email body.
Example:
The contract is attached below.
8. Please Refer to the Attachment
Purpose:
To direct attention to the attached file for specific information.
Example:
Please refer to the attachment for detailed data.
9. Find Attached the Report/Document for Your Perusal
When to choose:
Formal settings where a polite tone is desired.
Example:
Please find attached the report for your perusal.
10. I’ve Included the Document for Your Convenience
Use:
When ensuring the recipient knows the attachment is there to facilitate their work.
Example:
I’ve included the invoice for your convenience.
11. Attached You Will Find the Requested Document
Purpose:
To highlight that the document was requested or expected.
Example:
Attached you will find the requested document.
12. Please See the Attached for More Details
Ideal for:
When the attachment contains detailed or comprehensive information needing review.
Example:
Please see the attached for more details.
13. Enclosed is the Document You Asked For
In:
More common in formal or legal communication.
Example:
Enclosed is the legal agreement you asked for.
14. The Attached File Contains the Information You Need
When to:
Be specific about the contents to clarify purpose.
Example:
The attached file contains the information you need about the project timelines.
15. Please Take a Look at the Attached Document
Tone:
Relaxed yet professional, suitable for ongoing communications.
Example:
Please take a look at the attached invoice.
Deep Dive: Using Multiple Attachments and Proper Placement
Sometimes, you may need to send multiple attachments. Here’s how to handle it professionally:
| Step | Description | Example Sentence | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | List all attachments explicitly | Please find attached the following documents: the report, the invoice, and the presentation. | Helps avoid confusion. |
| 2 | Mention the number of files | Attached are three files for your review. | Clarifies quantity. |
| 3 | Use bullet points for multiple files | The attachments include: – Monthly Report – Financial Statement – Project Timeline |
Improves clarity. |
When and How to Use These Phrases Correctly
- Position in sentence: Usually at the end of a sentence or paragraph.
- Order when multiple phrases are used: Be consistent; generally, start with polite forms; follow with specific instructions.
Example:
Please review the attached report. Kindly find the enclosed invoice. Refer to the attached contract for details.
Tips for Success in Professional Correspondence
- Always match your language with the formality of your communication.
- Be clear about the action you expect from the recipient.
- Double-check attachments before sending to avoid missing files.
- Use bullet points or lists when multiple documents are involved.
- Include a brief description of each attachment if necessary.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
| Mistake | How to Avoid | Example of Correct Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Forgetting to attach files | Double-check attachments before sending | N/A |
| Using overly casual phrases in formal emails | Opt for formal options like “Find attached” | “Please find attached the report” |
| Not indicating the contents of attachments | Briefly describe the files | “The attached invoice covers March’s expenses” |
| Sending multiple files without listing | Create an attachment list | “Attached are three files: a report, invoice, and presentation” |
Variations and Contextual Use Cases
| Context | Best Phrase | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Formal business letter | Please find enclosed the document | Please find enclosed the signed NDA. |
| Email requesting review | Kindly review the attached | Kindly review the attached proposal. |
| Informal or internal message | The file is attached below | The file is attached below for your quick reference. |
| Multiple documents | Please see the attached files | Please see the attached files for detailed information. |
The Importance of Clear Attachment References
Using the right words to point out attachments ensures that your message isn’t misunderstood. Clear language reduces back-and-forth emails asking “Where is the document?” and helps the recipient act swiftly. When you articulate your message well, you reflect professionalism and respect for the recipient’s time.
Practice Exercises
Let’s add some interactive fun to cement what we’ve learned!
1. Fill-in-the-Blank
Complete the sentence with an appropriate phrase:
"Please ____ the attached invoice for your payment process."
2. Error Correction
Identify and correct the mistake in this sentence:
"I am sending you the attached files, please review them and let me know."
3. Identification
What is the best phrase to use here?
"You will find the report attached for your review."
4. Sentence Construction
Create a sentence using “Please review the attached document.”
5. Category Matching
Match the phrase to the context:
| Phrases | Formal | Informal |
|---|---|---|
| Attached is the report | ✓ | |
| The file is attached below | ✓ |
Final Word: Why Mastering This Matters
Whether you're sending an initial pitch or a detailed report, how you communicate about attachments can make or break your professionalism. Using varied, appropriate phrases can make your emails sound polished and thoughtful, leading to better business relationships.
Next time you need to nudge someone to look at a document, remember these professional ways to say "please see attached" — and do it with confidence!
In conclusion, mastering different ways to instruct someone to review attached documents isn't just about vocabulary; it's about clear, respectful, and effective communication. So go ahead—start mixing and matching these phrases in your emails and reports today!