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From the OWL resource Cover Letters 1: Quick Tips
Quick Formatting Tips for Cover Letters
Remember that the basic format of a cover letter follows that of a business letter. As you design the page, think about the following:
Length
- Keep to one page.
- Write one paragraph of introduction, one-three paragraphs to highlight your skills, and one paragraph to conclude.
Spacing
- Single-space your cover letter.
- Leave a space between addresses and dates in the heading.
- Leave a space between your heading (contact info) and greeting ("Dear...:").
- Leave a space between each paragraph.
- Leave at least three spaces between your complimentary close ("Sincerely,") and typed name.
- Sign your name in ink between your complimentary close and typed name.
Margins and Alignment
- Use standard margins (one-inch margins, usually).
- Can use smaller margins (to about 0.7-inch) as long as you are consistent on all sides.
- Align all paragraphs to the left of the page. (You can also indent the first line of each paragraph, but that is not used as often.)