If you are paying someone by check, the first step is to write the name of the recipient in the payee line. Make sure you know their exact name, as any mistakes here could prevent the check from being cashed. If you are not sure of their name, it is best to ask them or look it up in your records before writing the check.
After you have written the payee's name, write in the amount in numeric form. The amount must be written in both words and numbers, so that a machine can read it. This is usually preprinted on the cheque. The currency must also be specified.
Finally, if you wish, you can write a note in the memo (or "for") line. This is not mandatory, and it won't change how businesses process your checks. However, it's a good place to put in information that you may need to remind yourself of later, such as an explanation for why you wrote the check or your account number if you are giving money to a charity.
Keep in mind that a check takes time to clear, even when it is an electronic one. Your funds won't enter or leave your bank account instantly, so you should be sure to budget carefully and have enough cash to cover expenses until the check is cleared. It is also a good idea to keep copies of your cheques, in case they are lost or stolen.