Keep in Mind vs. Please Note

Attribute	Keep in Mind	Please Note
Usage	Used to remind someone to consider something important	Used to draw attention to additional information or instructions
Tone	More casual and friendly	Can be more formal or directive
Placement	Usually placed at the beginning or end of a message	Can be placed within the content to highlight specific points

Introduction

When it comes to communication, especially in written form, using the right phrases can make a big difference in how your message is received. Two common phrases that are often used to draw attention to important information are "Keep in Mind" and "Please Note." While both serve a similar purpose, there are subtle differences in their usage and implications. In this article, we will explore the attributes of these two phrases and discuss when it is appropriate to use each one.

Keep in Mind

The phrase "Keep in Mind" is often used to remind someone to consider a particular piece of information while thinking about or making a decision. It is typically used to emphasize a point that may be easily overlooked or forgotten. For example, if you are discussing a project with a team member and you want to highlight a key deadline, you might say, "Keep in mind that the deadline for this project is next Friday." This phrase is a gentle reminder to ensure that the information is not disregarded.

One of the key attributes of "Keep in Mind" is its subtle and non-intrusive nature. It is a polite way to bring attention to important details without sounding too forceful or demanding. This makes it a useful phrase in professional settings where maintaining a respectful tone is important. Additionally, using "Keep in Mind" can help to guide the recipient's thought process and encourage them to consider the information in a meaningful way.

Another aspect of "Keep in Mind" is its ability to prompt reflection or contemplation. By using this phrase, you are inviting the listener to actively engage with the information and incorporate it into their decision-making process. This can be particularly effective when you want to ensure that a specific point is taken into consideration when making a choice or forming an opinion.

Please Note

On the other hand, the phrase "Please Note" is often used to draw attention to a specific piece of information that is important for the reader to be aware of. It is commonly used in written communication, such as emails, memos, or formal documents, to highlight key details or instructions. For example, if you are sending out a company-wide announcement about a policy change, you might begin the message with "Please note that there have been updates to our vacation policy."

One of the main attributes of "Please Note" is its direct and assertive tone. Unlike "Keep in Mind," which is more subtle and suggestive, "Please Note" leaves no room for ambiguity. It clearly signals to the reader that the information being presented is important and should be acknowledged. This makes it a useful phrase when you want to ensure that a specific detail is not overlooked or misunderstood.

Additionally, "Please Note" is often used to introduce new information or changes that may require immediate attention or action. By using this phrase, you are signaling to the reader that the following information is crucial and should be taken seriously. This can be particularly effective in situations where compliance or adherence to certain guidelines is necessary.

Comparison

While both "Keep in Mind" and "Please Note" serve the purpose of highlighting important information, they differ in their tone, context, and implications. "Keep in Mind" is more subtle and suggestive, encouraging the recipient to consider a particular point without being overly forceful. It is often used in verbal communication to gently remind someone of a key detail or deadline.

On the other hand, "Please Note" is more direct and assertive, signaling to the reader that the information being presented is crucial and should be acknowledged. It is commonly used in written communication to draw attention to important details or changes that require immediate action or compliance. While both phrases can be effective in conveying important information, the choice between them depends on the context and desired impact.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the phrases "Keep in Mind" and "Please Note" are both valuable tools for drawing attention to important information in communication. While "Keep in Mind" is subtle and suggestive, prompting reflection and consideration, "Please Note" is direct and assertive, signaling the importance of the information being presented. Understanding the nuances of these phrases can help you communicate effectively and ensure that your message is received and understood as intended.