nerdy, you're right that it's not the most personal approach. However, that's kind-of the point; rejecting work can sometimes result in the rejected party init

nerdy, you're right that it's not the most personal approach. However, that's kind-of the point; rejecting work can sometimes result in the rejected party initiating a more heated exchange than is good for either party. By maintaining the arms-length that an e-mail provides, it helps the freelancer (especially one who is new, uncertain of herself, or who hasn't learned to hold boundaries yet) to avoid getting sucked in to anything. Plus, it provides a paper trail for later when the client comes begging back and the freelancer wonders "now, why did I turn this project down? Oooooh, right, they wanted to gnarfle the garthock, and that feels unethical." So, while you're right in that it could be handled more personally, my experience tells me that it's often better for all involved if it's just a weensy bit less personal.