For 2015, try this for resolution: “Always edit your email at least once.” And its corollary, “Never send out email right after writing it.”
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Have an informative signature text that includes your full contact data. Avoid Latin quotes, political or philosophical statements. If you are plugging for something, make sure it is short. Edit your mobile signature text. This is a place to be informative, not thoughtful. People generally don’t need to know your message came from whatever device.
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The first paragraph of the message should be less than 5 simple sentences, preferably 3, in active voice. Each of the “simple sentences” has 2 to 5 words.
This first paragraph is the “summary” of your message. If the recipient stops reading after this paragraph, not much would be lost.
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If you found the first paragraph empty of actions or decisions. Consider not sending this message. The exception is the “acknowledge” message as in “Got it. Thanks.”
Consider seriously to delete everything after the first paragraph.
If not, provide supporting facts, rationale, arguments, etc. in the following paragraphs. If there is an attachment, mention or list them as the sole purpose of the second paragraph.
These days, it is better not to reply “inline.” Instead, reply point-by-point and quote the original text verbatim at the end.
Remove unnecessary quotes or forwarding texts, particularly long signature blocks.
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No matter what, limit your entire email message to 5 paragraphs. If you absolutely cannot finish within 5 paragraphs, state this fact in the beginning of your second paragraph (“I apologize for the length of this message.” Or something like that.)
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After writing the body of the message, examine the subject and consider its appropriateness. The subject line serves two purposes: giving your message a “punch line” and helping the recipients to organize the message under the same thread.
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Take a very close look at the list of recipients. Why does each of them need to read this message? Consider revising the recipient list.
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If the message is humorous in nature. Be conservative. When in doubt, make sure you deprecated only yourself. Generally, don’t do it.
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If the message is to dole out accolade, gratitude, or appreciation, spend a bit more time to make it heart-felt by adding some details or personal connections.
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If you want to express anger, disapproval, or any negative emotion, save the message in the draft folder and wait minimally 24 hours before you send it. When you are about to send it, read it over again. If you have any doubt, wait another 24 hours.
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If you are replying to a thread that has gone back and forth several times, stop. Pick up the phone and call the person, or arrange a meeting.