Should asterisks and underscores be used to emphasize important information in an AM message?

In the context of AM messages, which often align with professional communication standards, using asterisks and underscores for emphasis is generally not recommended. Instead, clear and straightforward language is preferred to convey important information. This approach ensures that the message remains clean and easily readable, minimizing distractions that could arise from unnecessary formatting. Utilizing plain text helps maintain a consistent tone and allows the primary content of the message to take precedence.

Overusing formatting tools like asterisks and underscores can detract from the professionalism of the communication and may also confuse the recipient regarding what is being emphasized. Therefore, maintaining a straightforward approach without these stylistic embellishments is considered best practice in formal messages.