This first line would look something like, “Jenna Martinez. ” If you’d like, you can include the recipient’s title (Mr. , Mrs. , Ms. , Dr. , etc. ) before their name. It’s best to avoid writing in cursive when addressing mail. Printed block letters are easier for postal workers to read.

For example, if you were sending your large envelope to the University of Oregon’s English Department, the second line would look like this, “Department of English,” and the third line would be, “University of Oregon. ”

For example, you might write, “125 East Main St. ” or “P. O. Box 8795. ” Don’t forget to add a direction if the street name includes one. You can use abbreviations (N, W, S, E, NW, etc. ).

You can abbreviate “apartment” to “apt” and “suite” to “ste. ” So this line might look like, “Apt. 4D” or “Ste. 45. ”

This line might look something like, “Easton, CT 06612. ” It’s very important that you use the correct zip code, so double check this information online before you write it down.

When in doubt, include both your first name and a middle or nickname. You might write, “Mr. John “Jimmy” Reynolds,” for example.

So, for example, you could write, “Human Relations Dept. ” on 1 line and “General Electric” on the next line.

Expect a typical house number and street address to look something like, “6100 Cortaderia St. NW. ” Be aware that the direction may come before or after the street name. Consult your local post office if you’re unsure where to place the direction. If you have a P. O. Box, write this down instead.

This last line should look something like, “Valdosta, GA 31602. ” If your envelope can’t make it to the recipient for some reason, it’ll be returned to you. To ensure this happens, it’s important for your address to be accurate. Don’t rush through writing your own address just because you know it so well!

So long as your large envelope weighs less than 13 ounces (370 g), you can send it by dropping it in a blue USPS mailbox or by leaving it in your home mailbox with the red flag raised.