The shortest version that still works:

Hi [Manager],

Please accept this as my formal notice of resignation. My last day will be [Date].

I'm grateful for my time here and happy to support handoff.

Best, [Your Name]

Three variants

Standard short:

"Please accept this as my formal notice of resignation from [Company]. My last day will be [Date]. Happy to help with handoff."

Warm short:

"It's been a real privilege working at [Company]. Please accept this as my formal two weeks' notice; my last day will be [Date]."

Direct short:

"Formal notice of resignation. Last day [Date]. Happy to support handoff."

When to use a short letter

  • Default for most resignations
  • After a verbal conversation that already covered the substance
  • When the relationship is functional (not a deep mentor/mentee)

When to write longer

  • Very long tenure (10+ years)
  • A genuine mentor relationship worth acknowledging
  • Industry conventions that expect more (some traditional roles)

Even longer letters cap at 6-8 sentences.

What never goes in a resignation letter

  • Reason for leaving (verbal only)
  • Complaints
  • New job details
  • Negative feedback about colleagues
  • Personal life details

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For more: simple resignation letter, resignation letter example, how to write a resignation letter.