In block format, the date is left justified in modified block or semi-block format, it begins one tab (five spaces) right of centre. In the US, the date format is month-day-year: The UK, the date format is day-month-year: For informal letters, it may go at the top of the page.
Type it two lines below either your stationery's letterhead or the typed sender's address. The date indicates when you composed the letter. There is no need to include the sender's address in informal letters. In modified block or semi-block format, the sender's address begins one tab (five spaces) right of centre. In block format, the sender's address is left justified: in other words, flush with the left margin. If the address is not on the letterhead, include it at the top of the document. If you are using stationery, it may already be printed on the letterhead if so, do not type it out. The sender’s address includes the name and address of the letter’s author. Read more about block, modified block, and semi-block letter formatting. Omit the sender's address, date, and recipient's address. If you are writing your letter as an email, use block format, regardless of formality. Include a margin of one to one-and-a-half inches around each page.
If you are typing, use 10- to 12-point font and single line spacing for composing your letter. Most formal and semi-formal letters should be typed. Informal letters are reserved for personal correspondence.
#Proper paragraph spacing in word professional#
Social letters to less familiar recipients (e.g., a professional colleague) may also be semi-formal. Business letters addressed to recipients you know very well (e.g., a former boss) may be semi-formal. Most business letters, such as cover letters for job applications, insurance claims, and letters of complaint, are formal. For informal letters, use semi-block format. For semi-formal letters, you may wish to use modified block or semi-block format. Letters typically follow one of three formats: block, modified block, or semi-block:īlock format is generally perceived as the most formal format. This page includes guidelines for composing letters according to various formats and degrees of formality.