You’re moving on, and you need to write a resignation letter. It’s entirely appropriate to write a short business letter simply stating that you are resigning and giving a date that it will become effective. There are a few rules of good conduct to follow (below) that will help you make a smooth exit. Even if your job is a nightmare and your boss has been difficult at best, it is always in your best interest to leave on good terms. You never know if you might be running into your co-workers or boss in the future! Don’t ruin your reputation by burning the bridge as you leave.

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Start off by writing a sentence stating that you are resigning. Be positive and complimentary about your past experiences with the organization, and give a date on which your resignation will be effective. This is the most relevant part of the letter, and if you want to, you can stop here. It’s entirely professional and appropriate to just write two or three sentences in your resignation letter. If you want to write more, read on.

If you want to, give a brief explanation about why you are leaving, especially if you are leaving on good terms in order to pursue other career options, are moving, or have another non-inflammatory reason for leaving. If you’re leaving because your boss is a big jerk, you should probably leave that out. Even if you feel you must say it (try not to), don’t write it. You don’t want to open yourself up for any kind of lawsuit. You have to realize that your letter will be kept on file in some kind of permanent record.

Stay professional and be courteous. Even if you absolutely hate your job and can’t wait to leave, it’s best to leave on good terms if at all possible. You may need a reference one day. Just take the high road.

Focus on where your life is going rather than what you are leaving. Be excited about your new opportunities and how the change will be a good thing for the company you are leaving. Offer to find and/or train your replacement and assist in the transition.

Write it as a formal business letter on company letterhead. End the letter with thanks for your experience, and sign it. Proofread your letter to make it error-free.

When should you turn your letter in? That’s tricky. You want to give enough notice so that a replacement can be found, but not too much in case they decide they’d like you to leave immediately. Usually two to four weeks is appropriate. Finish whatever projects you are currently working on during the transition time, clean out your desk, and say hello to your new job.