What should you do if an email requires more than two minutes to handle?

When faced with an email that requires more than two minutes to handle, placing it in the pending folder is the most practical approach. This method allows you to prioritize your tasks effectively without getting bogged down by complex responses in the moment. It ensures that you can return to the email later when you have the time and focus necessary to address it thoroughly, thus maintaining your productivity and workflow.

By placing such emails in a pending folder, you create a system for managing your inbox efficiently. This organization helps you keep track of tasks that need more attention while allowing you to respond to quicker emails promptly.

The other options do not align effectively with good email management practices. Archiving an email prematurely might lead to forgetting it altogether, and deleting it would eliminate the chance of addressing an important issue. Responding immediately might lead to rushed responses that could lack the necessary attention, potentially leading to misunderstandings or incomplete resolutions. Thus, placing it in the pending folder serves as a balanced strategy to manage emails that require additional time.