Hints from heloise

Dear Heloise: I work as a data-entry operator and have a few hints for people so that they can get the information or rebate they are requesting:

• Write legibly.

• When providing an e-mail address, please differentiate between a zero and the letter “o.” Also, be sure to complete the address. Not everyone knows that Heloise is .com.

• Do not assume that information is being entered locally, so write out your city name in full.

• Try to use a blue or black pen. Hot-pink or turquoise metallic pens are very difficult to read.

• Do not write in extra information not asked for on the form.

• Lastly, if you are providing your telephone number, be sure to provide the complete number, with the area code first in parentheses. — Susan, via e-mail