Writing a Formal Letter: Template and Tips for 2021

Introduction

Writing a formal letter can seem like a daunting task, especially if you’ve never done it before. Whether you need to write a formal letter for a job application, to apply for a degree program, or to request information from an institution, a well-written letter can make all the difference. This article provides a template and tips to help you write a formal letter that is professional and effective.

Format of a Formal Letter

The format of a formal letter should be consistent throughout. This means that all the parts of the letter should be aligned to the left and all the text should be single-spaced. The font should also be consistent, with the same type, size, and color used throughout the letter.

Header

The header of a formal letter includes your address and the date. Your address should be at the top right of the letter and the date should be one line below the address. It is important to use the correct format for the date (e.g., January 1, 2021).

Recipient’s Address

On the left side of the letter, you should include the recipient’s address. This should include their name, title, company name, street address, city, state, and zip code. If you don’t know the recipient’s exact address, you can use the company name and city.

Salutation

The salutation of a formal letter should be formal and polite. The most common salutation is “Dear [Name].” If you don’t know the recipient’s name, you can use “Dear Sir/Madam” or “To Whom It May Concern.”

Body

The body of the letter is where you can explain why you are writing. This should include any relevant information or details that will help the reader understand your request. Make sure to keep the tone professional and polite, and avoid using slang or informal language.

Closing

The closing of a formal letter should be professional and polite. The most common closing is “Sincerely,” followed by a comma and your full name. You can also choose to include a closing statement such as “Thank you for your time and consideration.”

Enclosure

If you are including any documents or attachments with your letter, you should include an enclosure line. This should be placed one line below the closing and should include the words “Enclosure” followed by a colon and a list of the documents included.

Conclusion

Writing a formal letter can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. By following the template and tips provided in this article, you can create a professional and effective letter that will help you get the results you are looking for.