cover letter examples mla

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MLA Format Cover Page

The Modern Language Association (MLA) does not require you to create a cover page when you complete your research paper, but some instructors may require it.

If your instructor requires your paper to have a cover page, here is how to make it (very easy). This cover page should include: your school name, your research paper title, your name, your class, your professor name and your paper due date.

How to Format Your MLA Cover Page:

This page is double spaced and the letters are centered.
Font: Times New Roman
Font size: 12
The first letter of each word should be capitalized with the exception of very short words such as: the, and, of, or, a, an, in, to, for. Note: the first letter of the first word should be capitalized, regardless of what kind of word it is.
Type the name of your university or college.
Skip to about one-third of the page and type your research paper title, include a subtitle if you have.
Skip several lines down and type your name, your course name and number, your instructor name and your paper’s due date.

Sample MLA Format Cover Page:

Sample MLA Format Cover Page

Alternate First Page:

If your instructor requires a cover page, you would omit the main heading on your first page. Here is an example of the first page if a cover page is used. You still need your last name and page number on the first page and every other page.

Sample MLA Format First Page with Cover Page

Sample MLA Paper:

Visit here for a sample paper with the cover page. The cover page can vary slightly. This paper also has the outline page for your sample.

If you find this website useful, please share with a friend:

How do I get the header on the second page on down? I tried editing it but then it takes the header away from all the pages.

In word select the header then go to: Header & Footer>Page Number>Format Page Numbers>Page Numbering>Start at page>Set to 0

How do I get the header on the second page on down? I tried editing it but then it takes the header away from all the pages. I am using windows. Also, the page numbers are not working for me either. Please help me.

How should I start the page after my cover page?

https://mlaformat.org/mla-format-heading/

Thank you so much Stephen !!! Helped a lot in my written assignments 🙂

Great site ! Thank you so much. Just returned to school to complete my bachelors and needed a little refreshing. Has all the information I needed !

Thanks so much for all of the great information! I have not used MLA before and was a little panic stricken. I have found all of my answers here. This is now saved to my favorites so I can use it regularly. Thanks again!

Should the lines on the cover page be double spaced?

Thanks so much for the picture of the cover page it has helped a lot. But, I was wondering do I still need to put my Title at the top of every page after the header?

Hello Lydia. You do not.

After your cover page, your next page’s heading should look like the “Alternate First Page” above.

After the “Alternate First Page” => your next pages should have “The Inner Pages” heading: https://mlaformat.org/mla-format-heading/

Sample paper: https://mlaformat.org/mla-format-sample-paper-with-cover-page-and-outline/

hey Lydia you don’t need to but if you want to you can

Thank you so so much. I love the simplicity of the website, very easy to understand. I finally have a cover page for my paper!!

I love this website!! It helped so many times with all my essays. I’m working on a college one and this was very useful. Thank you soo much. And thanks for the examples im a visual person I needed that 🙂

Hi Kaylin, I am glad you find this site useful. Take care!

By the way (sorry i forgot!) for the coverpage, would the text font be 12 times new roman???

You can set everything 12, Times New Roman. Or you can set the Title a little larger than 12, that should work too.

In the example above, I have the title larger than 12.

Here is an example with everything set at 12.

Thank you so much for your help on this useful website! I found it very organized and I’m very glad that I came across this particular article. Thanks!!!!!!!:)

I have a question regarding the cover page and the following pages. If I have a cover page as the example provided, do I still need the heading on the next page? And should the pages after that contain my last name on the top left as the header does on the on the previous pages? or do I not need the header at all if I have the cover page and just my name?

Excellence question, Stella! I have updated this article with information on the first page if a cover page is used. Please see “Alternate First Page” above.

You can omit the main heading but you still need your last name and page number on the first page and all subsequent pages. Take care!

How to Apply Composition Techniques to a Cover Letter

Lesson plan, grade level.

Undergraduate (Face-to-Face or Online)

Students will learn how to apply the techniques learned in a college-level composition class to business writing and other genres they will write in during their future careers.

Students will reinforce their understanding of various ideas in composition studies discussed throughout the semester, including Aristotle’s Triangle, Toulmin’s Model, and paragraph structure. 1

Students will demonstrate their understanding of expository writing and argumentative approaches.

Background and Context

I provide these exercises near the end of a semester-long composition class to show students the relevancy of what they have been learning to nonacademic contexts. I teach the cover letter lesson in both Composition 1 and 2. Students say they appreciate the lesson since it helps them see how they can apply writing techniques beyond our class. This session occurs after we discuss résumé-writing tips, job research, and job-description analysis.

Total Estimated Class Time

A single class period (approx. 50 mins.)

Sequence of Activities

Reading and Analysis (10–15 mins.)

Students read the sample cover letter, then complete exercise 1, in which they find the cover letter’s thesis, transitions, and elements they think were mentioned in the job description.

Class Discussion (5 mins.)

As a class, we discuss and compare students’ answers. Usually, there is a little uncertainty as to what the thesis sentence is, so this discussion is crucial. It’s also helpful for students to see which transitions they spotted and which ones they missed. The last discussion point about the job-description elements further helps them comprehend how to refer to materials provided by an employer.

Small-Group Analysis (15–20 mins.)

I break the class up into three groups: one focusing on general paragraph structure, one focusing on Aristotle’s Triangle, and the last one focusing on Toulmin’s Model. Using exercise 2, the students analyze and dissect structural points and observe how business writing requires the same conventions that expository essays do.

Class Discussion (5–10 mins.)

Each group presents its responses and discusses how the overlapping concepts help to build this genre of writing.

Possible Follow-Up Activities

Using job descriptions that they find or that I provide, I ask the students to create their own cover letter for a particular job. Usually, I have them find job descriptions related to their majors. These descriptions are offered through job-posting sites. This approach helps them to see what types of jobs may be out there for their future careers. Since the cover letter can be sent when they are applying for actual jobs, the students are grateful to have a piece of writing that they can reuse.

After this stage, they post their cover letters to a peer-review forum, or, if time allows, they share them during small-group exercises in class.

Possible Alterations

I have used these exercises for online composition classes, making only minor adjustments. For online classes, I scaffold a bit more, so students turn in their responses for exercise 1 to a discussion board and respond to their peers’ answers. Afterward, I place students into the three types of groups used in exercise 2. Each group posts a response to a discussion board, and then other groups respond.

You can certainly use these assignments in secondary education courses as well. Even if you do not focus on Aristotle’s Triangle or Toulmin’s Model, you can still use the paragraph-structure exercise to reinforce how paragraphs are organized in any genre of writing.

1 Aristotle’s Triangle, also known as the rhetorical triangle, includes the foundational ways in which speakers or writers can appeal to their audiences. The three components include pathos (appeals to an audience’s emotion), logos (appeals to an audience’s sense of logic and reasoning), and ethos (appeals that establish an author’s credibility for an audience). Stephen Toulmin created his model to show the fundamental elements of argumentation in writing. The basic elements include claim, data, and warrant or synthesis. He argues that these three components are needed for any argument to be successful, and this structure is the basis for most paragraphs for expository writing. The traditional formula for structuring a paragraph involves starting with a topic sentence argument, followed by examples, and ending with synthesis sentences.

Lesson Materials

Like an Essay: Cover Letter Exercise 1 (Individual Exercise)

Like an Essay: Cover Letter Exercise 2 (Group Work)

Hassan Rezaei 21 January 2021 AT 04:01 AM

It is an interesting article. Can you provide or recommend books or other articles about Aristotle Triangle and Toulmin's Model in cover letter writing.

Your e-mail address will not be published

Michael J Berntsen 25 January 2021 AT 04:01 PM

Thank you for taking the time to review my lesson plan. I'm not familiar with any longer or specific investigations of how business writing relies on these concepts. These books contain a few general connections: "Arguing on the Toulmin Model: New Essays in Argument Analysis and Evaluation" (2006) by David Hitchcock and Bart Verheij (Editors) and "Technical and Business Communication in Two-Year Programs" (1985) by W. Keats Sparrow and Nell Ann Pickett (Editors). Also, this article features a direct connection between "ethos" and technical writing: C. P. Campbell, "Ethos: character and ethics in technical writing," in IEEE Transactions on Professional Communication, vol. 38, no. 3, pp. 132-138, Sept. 1995, doi: 10.1109/47.406725.

I'll keep passing you more if I find anything in my previous research or conference notes.

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The mla guide for writing cover letters.

The Modern Language Association, or MLA, style of writing is meant for academic papers. Submitting an MLA-style cover letter with your resume only makes sense if you are applying for an academic position, not a business position. With an MLA academic cover letter, the content will be different than a business cover letter both its quantity and its kind. Taking the time to follow specific information points when writing an MLA cover letter will draw an employer's attention to you and hopefully secure an interview.

Basic Information

Address your MLA cover letter as you normally would any other cover letter. Use personal stationery or print your address and other contact information on the sheet. Include the employer's address, the date and a greeting line. If you have address the letter specifically to one person, the greeting line should read "Dear Mr. Last Name." If your submission is to an academic review board, greet the board with "Dear Hiring Committee" or other appropriate title as it pertains to the situation.

First Paragraph

Make the first paragraph of the cover letter concise. State which job you are applying for and list any job code or departmental information, as needed. Include both the means through which you heard about the position and why you specifically are a good candidate to bring in for an interview. Your sales pitch begins in the first paragraph. Make sure that you offer strong reasons from the start.

Dissertation Emphasis

Emphasize how your thesis or dissertation during your graduate or doctorate work makes you qualified for the exact position. Perhaps no direct material qualification exists, but the amount of research it took and your general knowledge of the whole field in which you studied does qualify you. Note similarities that make you ideal for the job. Academic jobs also want to know you'll be comfortable in their specific institution. Address how your research background helps you fit in--religious study for a position at a Christian university, for example.

Incomplete Dissertation

Let the hiring committee or recruiter know in your cover letter if you have not yet finished your thesis or dissertation. In this case, outline the work you have completed, when you are scheduled to finish the work and your major findings. An incomplete dissertation is not necessarily a mark against you in the hiring process.

Close the MLA-style, academic cover letter with information about how you can be reached most easily. Refrain from retyping the information already listed on the page. Provide only your most-used form of communication, whether email or phone number. Include a thank you phrase and an expectant remark that shows confidence in your ability to obtain an interview. Close the letter with "Sincerely," followed by your full name and any credentials you have obtained.

How to write a curriculum vitae →.

How to Answer Essay Questions For A Job Interview →

How to make a resume for a 16-year-old →.

How to Write an Interview Paragraph →

Proper References for Enclosures on Letters →

How to Write a Cover Letter for an Illustration Job →

Purdue: Academic Cover letters
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MLA Guidelines on Letters of Recommendation

These recommendations were originally written by the Executive Council in 2014 and were revised in 2021 by the Committee on Academic Freedom and Professional Rights and Responsibilities (CAFPRR) and the Committee on the Status of Graduate Students in the Humanities. CAFPRR made additional revisions in 2023.

Suggestions for Graduate Students Applying for Assistant Professorships and Lectureships

Talk to your dissertation director(s) and committee members about your plans to go on the job market well before mid-September, when institutions start advertising open academic positions. Establish a timeline for the application process and convey the deadlines to your letter writers as soon as you know them. Learn what documents and how many completed dissertation chapters your advisers will need to see in order to write a thorough and accurate letter, and make sure to provide these materials a month to six weeks before the application deadline. If a deadline is approaching and a letter has not been submitted, remind your recommender of the deadline.
In both the Guidelines for Search Committees and Job Seekers on Entry-Level Faculty Recruitment and Hiring as well as Postdoctoral Applications and the section of these guidelines below, “Suggestions for Members of Hiring Committees, Department Chairs, and Deans Who Oversee Departmental Hiring Protocols,” the MLA suggests that these hiring groups delay requesting letters of recommendation and writing samples until after the first screening of job applicants. Not all schools follow these suggestions, though. You should therefore have your portfolio completed, including letters of recommendation, as soon as possible so that you can respond quickly to different schools' deadlines for letters of recommendation.
Talk to your letter writers about how you and they will handle the logistics of submitting the letters, especially if the positions you are applying for use different methods to receive documents. See “Suggestions for Directors of Graduate Study and Faculty Members Who Serve on Graduate Student Placement Committees” below for more on submitting materials through applicant tracking systems.
Talk to your dissertation adviser or graduate director about how many letters you are requesting, and from whom. The MLA recommends no more than three or four letters for most candidates applying for assistant professor or lecturer positions. (Two or three are required for most fellowship and postdoctoral competitions.) The general rule is that each member of your dissertation committee should be in a position to write a knowledgeable letter about your accomplishments. If, however, you are in a situation where letter writers who are commenting on your scholarly writing cannot observe you teach or if there is one person in your department who regularly observes and writes about graduate student teachers, then your dossier should include a separate teaching letter. If you are applying for positions that require competence in more than one language or area of scholarly inquiry, then you may also need an extra letter.
If you are going on the job market for a second or third time, be sure to contact all your recommenders the summer before you plan to update your dossier. Provide your recommenders with detailed information about what you have written, published, and taught since you were last on the market. If you have new publications, send copies of them. Your recommenders will then have time to think carefully about what kind of updating might be appropriate.

Suggestions for Faculty Members Writing Letters of Recommendation

Writing letters of recommendation is an increasingly demanding faculty responsibility in which faculty members must represent graduate students accurately and enthusiastically for competitive academic careers as well as for a range of careers outside academia.

Consider providing print or electronic guidelines about what you typically need from graduate students to write them well-informed letters of recommendation for whatever careers they envision. Be clear about when you need to see their materials to send (or upload) your letter to meet their first application deadline. (See “Suggestions for Directors of Graduate Study and Faculty Members Who Serve on Graduate Student Placement Committees” below for issues raised by applicant tracking systems, which are used by many postsecondary educational institutions.)
Ask to see all materials your student plans to submit as part of a standard application for an academic position: cover letter, CV, personal statement, statement on diversity, teaching portfolio, writing sample, and any other supporting materials the student wishes to share. For positions outside academia, ask to see their résumé and cover letter and, if you are not familiar with the extent of their career preparation, invite a conversation about relevant professional experience or coursework, internships, professional certificates, credentials, qualifications, etc. Even if you are not specifically asked to provide feedback, students often benefit from your editorial eye on all these documents.
If you are directing multiple students who will be applying for the same positions, try to avoid repeating formulations that might minimize their specific achievements (e.g., “The best student I’ve had in ten years”).
If you are directing a student’s dissertation, make every effort to observe them teach an undergraduate class and ask if they are willing to share course evaluations or teaching portfolios, if applicable. If a student is on a nonteaching fellowship or if your schedule doesn’t permit you to visit a student’s classes, consider having it recorded (many Centers for Teaching and Learning offer this service) or inviting them to guest teach one of your undergraduate classes, or a part of one. Consider also setting aside time to talk with graduate students who have not had much teaching experience in their major academic field about how they would design a syllabus for an advanced course in that field as well as a general introductory course. In the current job market, graduate students benefit from having at least one recommendation from a faculty member who knows enough about the student’s teaching and scholarly work to be able to draw connections between the two areas of competence. Students applying for nonacademic jobs can also benefit from a classroom observation, which aids recommenders in describing their group management, public speaking, and interpersonal skills.
Whether your department has an individual or committee that supports students through the job search, be sure that your students are aware of resources such as the MLA’s Career Resources page and check those resources yourself to ensure that you are providing your students with up-to-date advice on preparing for careers both inside and outside academia. Of special use to students will be the following web pages: Guidelines for Interviews for Academic Positions , Guidelines for Search Committees and Job Seekers , Advice to Graduate Students: From Application to Career , and the varied resources housed in Connected Academics .
Questions often arise regarding the desirability of referring to dimensions of students’ identity such as race, gender, age, parental status, nationality, or disability status. In addition, it is important to recognize the potential significance of pronouns, shortened (nick)names, name changes (both first and last), and the hyphenation of names. We strongly suggest that in all such cases, recommenders discuss the issue with the candidate and honor the candidate’s decisions. Recommenders should also let students know that they are under no obligation to disclose any of the aforementioned identity information in their job applications, particularly with international students, as this may differ from the application norms in other countries.
The MLA recommends that letters of recommendation for academic jobs be two to three pages long. Whatever their length, such letters should offer a detailed and engaging statement about the candidate’s qualities and accomplishments as a scholar, a teacher, and an engaged member of the community. Recommenders may craft different letters for academic jobs depending on whether they emphasize teaching or research. Even for research-oriented positions, lengthy descriptions of the student’s intellectual project(s) should not form the bulk of the letter. Such descriptions are often perceived as competing with those in the student’s own application letter; that document, by convention, is approximately two pages long and covers the student’s research. Faculty letters longer than three pages put a burden on those who read large numbers of dossiers.
Letters for careers outside academia are typically no more than two pages and should focus specifically on the skills valued by the employer. Talk with your student about how they have developed their interests in nonacademic positions and the steps they have taken to gain relevant training. To support your students as strongly as possible, consult a source on how to discuss transferrable skills in your letter and confirm that your student is familiar with such sources. One such resource is “ Transferable Skills for Humanities PhDs .”
Job searches often take several years, and consequently you may be writing letters for your students after they graduate and take on visiting positions or other full- or part-time short-term appointments. Respond to students’ requests for revised letters by asking for updates of accomplishments and goals, and update your letter accordingly. Once a student mentee has graduated, it is especially helpful to frame their work as one would that of a colleague. This may mean reducing some descriptions of the student in classes or seminar papers and expanding on their professional activities and impact in the field.

Finally, we invite recommenders to be encouraging and supportive of graduate students throughout this arduous and often multiyear process.

Suggestions for Members of Hiring Committees, Department Chairs, and Deans Who Oversee Departmental Hiring Protocols

The MLA recommends that hiring committees set a clear limit of three to four letters in job ads for assistant professor positions. Ads that contain phrases like “send at least three letters of recommendation” can easily be interpreted as signifying that having more than three letters is desirable. Hiring committees should discuss how many letters they really need to assess a candidate for a particular job. Some committees searching for an assistant professor with competence in disparate fields or in multiple languages may wish to set a higher limit on letters (e.g., five). But in the light of the time it takes to write and to read careful letters, the MLA urges those who write job ads to consider the benefits, to faculty members and to applicants new to the job market, of restricting the number of letters requested.
Consider whether the committee needs to see all letters for all applicants at the first stage of selection. Some faculty readers of dossiers don’t read letters of recommendation carefully, or at all, until the applicant is at the semifinalist or finalist stage. Other faculty readers rely on recommendations in making initial decisions about candidates. The expected size of your applicant pool could be one factor in your department’s decision about whether to request letters up front. In the United Kingdom, reference letters are normally solicited only for finalists in a junior job search, and this practice has been adopted by some institutions of higher learning in the United States. Moreover, some academic institutions in the United States no longer require letters of recommendation at any stage of the hiring process; instead, they require contact information for three to four references and arrange to speak with them if the candidate becomes a finalist. Finally, consider the mailing or electronic-submission costs graduate student applicants will incur under your current procedures.
If your college or university has its own applicant tracking system, it will increase the burden on letter writers and applicants, who may have to negotiate a different system for each institution. Consider discussing these challenges with your department chair, your dean, and perhaps members of the upper administration so that they can consider them in future decisions about how to receive application materials.

Suggestions for Directors of Graduate Study and Faculty Members Who Serve on Graduate Student Placement Committees

Consider requiring all graduate students in your department who are going on the job market for the first time to submit their materials for review well before mid-September, when the MLA Job Information List begins to post jobs for the academic year.
Consider having the graduate director or a faculty member helping with placement review letters of recommendation for technical errors (e.g., typographic errors, last year’s date, discrepancies in statements about when a student will complete their degree, etc.) and for appropriateness to particular institutions.

Suggestion for Administrators of Applicant Tracking Systems

Consider removing automatic word or character limits for recommendations. While suggesting a maximum length for letters (e.g., no more than two or three pages) is helpful for both writers and readers, imposing a word or character limit may require recommenders to spend time revising letters at the last minute.

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PLoS Comput Biol
v.14(5); 2018 May

Ten simple rules for writing a cover letter to accompany a job application for an academic position

Lubomir tomaska.

1 Department of Genetics, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovakia

Jozef Nosek

2 Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovakia

Introduction

It is becoming a difficult task to find an academic position that is best suited for one’s capabilities and preferences. In an extremely competitive environment [ 1 ], there are tens of applicants (and often more) per a single position. As a result, the hiring committees judge the quality of the candidates based on numerous criteria, including previous achievements listed in their CVs; recommendation letters from their instructors, supervisors, or peers; technical and presentation skills; and research plans. In many cases, the first encounter with the applicants is mediated by their cover letter. If well crafted, the letter can simultaneously act as an introduction, a first-stage filter, and a cogent, compelling argument for one’s candidacy (e.g., [ 2 – 6 ]). On the other hand, a generic, boring, uninspiring cover letter full of typos will increase the probability of dismissal of the application, oftentimes irreversibly blocking the applicant’s entry to a potential dream position. The list of rules below should be helpful in composing a cover letter that will serve as a catalyst for pushing the application into the next stages of evaluation. The provided rules are specifically designed for job applications for an academic position (e.g., PhD student, postdoc, lecturer, faculty member). Although most also apply for other types of jobs (e.g., in industry), these may have specific requirements that need to be taken into account.

Rule 1: Before starting the application, make a list of pros and cons for the position

On 11 November 1838, Charles Darwin proposed to his cousin, Emma Wedgwood, and wrote in his diary, “The day of days!” What followed (beginning 29 January 1839) were 43 years of happy marriage, underlining the fact that Darwin’s proposal and Ms. Wedgwood’s acceptance were both correct decisions. Perhaps what is not so widely known is that Darwin, in the months immediately preceding his engagement, had written two notes weighing up the pros and cons of marriage [ 7 ]. Following Darwin’s example, before starting to compose an application letter, it should prove helpful to summarize the reasons in favor of (and also against) applying for the position. Perform detailed research of the available positions that may suit you. Go beyond the information provided by job ads and institution websites; consult mentors, advisers, and colleagues. Start writing the cover letter only if the pros of application outweigh the cons. This will help you to compose a text in an enthusiastic style.

Rule 2: Remember KISS—Keep It Short and Simple

This is one of the key concepts in effective speaking and writing. For a cover letter, if not required otherwise by specific formal requirements, two pages are the maximum. Address the letter to a named person. A short introduction serves as a “handle,” i.e., it should get attention from the committee members [ 2 ]. Then you can proceed to a brief and clear summary of your most important—and relevant—qualifications. The balance between your research, teaching, and administration (or other) skills depends on the nature of the position. Next, explain what attracts you to the position and how it fits into your career plan. To be concise, stay focused. Anything less than a sharp focus and your readers will quickly lose interest and move on to the next application. Do not duplicate your CV. Rather, emphasize what does not get covered or rise to the surface in your CV or résumé. Make sure your cover letter is consistent with your CV. In the case of a digital cover letter, you can provide active links to information that may be relevant such as your website or list of publications (e.g., as a link to ResearcherID, ORCID, or GoogleScholar). The closing of the letter is as important as its opening. Do not let it meander to an indefinite or weak last paragraph. End your letter decisively by including a statement expressing interest in an interview.

Rule 3: Be original, nonconformist, and personal

Although it is useful to read cover letters of successful candidates, do not get too influenced by their style and content. Be yourself. Think of your cover letter as the opener to your application, similar to a cork that represents an entry to the contents of a wine bottle. Just as a cracked or rotten cork will discourage a user from pouring the contents of the bottle into a glass and evaluating all of its attributes, an uninspiring cover letter might prevent the recruiter from reading the full application and assessing your suitability for the position.

Rule 4: Show motivation and sincere interest

If you are applying for a research position, try to address the following questions: why you are choosing this position; what is exciting about the projects performed in the laboratory; and what part of the project you would like to pursue. You need to show that you did not just read the titles of recent publications but that you are familiar with the methodology, experimental design, and analysis as they are performed by your prospective employer. This will help you suggest future experiments or research directions aimed at better understanding of corresponding phenomena. In case of a faculty position, explain why you plan to pursue your career at the given institution; indicate how you will benefit from the collaboration with the groups at the department and vice versa, and how you plan to obtain support for your research; describe your experience with supervising students and postdocs; and show motivation for teaching, if the position requires teaching-related activities [ 8 ].

Rule 5: Provide an honest description of yourself

Provide a glimpse of your personality, possibly in the form of a story that highlights your specific characteristics. Pick a few adjectives that describe you most of the time, regardless of the situation. You may provide information about the path that led to your interest in a particular field. Be positive.

Rule 6: Highlight your strengths

How will the lab or institution benefit from having you onboard? List your major achievements and technical skills. State explicitly how your abilities and interests align with the position. Expand on what makes you especially suitable or appealing for the specific position you are applying for. Explain which of your strengths may set you apart from other candidates. If your background does not exactly match all of the criteria that the employer seeks, spell out what you are willing to do to learn the specific skills that the hiring organization needs (e.g., taking a special course or training). Do not forget about your behavioral strengths, such as your ability to lead a project, to work as a team member, or to be an effective communicator [ 9 ].

Rule 7: Do not recycle

If you are sending applications for several positions, do not use the same text and just change the name of the institution. It is important to tailor your letter to the position you are applying for. Every research group and every institution prides itself on certain characteristics that make it unique. Therefore, generic, template-like letters are prone to be identified. They can make you seem rushed, noncommittal and not particularly interested in the position advertised and are most likely to end up in the recycle bin.

Rule 8: Avoid overstatements and false claims

Overstatements tend to be annoying, and false claims, when uncovered, result in immediate rejection. Do not make yourself look better or more qualified. Avoid pompous metaphors and clichés. Be honest and truthful. Do not exaggerate. Also, do not be unrealistic in what you could achieve should you be offered the position, i.e., do not list promises that you cannot keep. Remember that it is always better not to be accepted for a position than to run into troubles or conflicts while holding it.

Rule 9: Do not underestimate the formal quality of the letter

If a letter reads well, looks good, and is devoid of spelling and grammatical errors, then the reader will have a tendency to associate those qualities with the candidate. If someone is unable to express him/herself without errors, that triggers an immediate rejection [ 5 ]. Proofreading for content, accuracy, and style is crucial. Here are some suggestions: Spell check and get a colleague or trusted personal contact to check spelling and readability, too. Automated spell checkers may not catch inappropriate usage of similarly spelled words or homonyms; be particularly careful about writing the recipient's and institution’s names correctly, check any dates and addresses you are referencing, avoid lists or bullet points, and avoid unusual or unreadable fonts.

Rule 10: Plan ahead and do not rush

When you think the letter is in the best shape possible, try to put yourself in the position of the recruiter. To do so, set it aside for a couple of days. Such detachment will help you to see flaws that were not obvious at the time of writing. Format the letter even if it is being sent by email. Ask for references or recommendations in advance. Allocate sufficient time to finalize the letter. Note that different countries may have different application processes and that not everything indicated above will apply to every country. Therefore, have someone with knowledge of local customs review the letter as well. Finally, do not miss the deadlines.

Although a well-written cover letter is only a small step towards a successful job application, it may provide an important advantage by sparking the interest of the hiring committee for that particular applicant. Even if it is not formally required, it should still be included with the application, as it can help to underline the applicant's qualities related to the position description and it may point to a particular section of a lengthy résumé where they can find more detailed information [ 5 ]. To put it metaphorically, a cover letter is a handle on the door to the application, and depending on its quality, the door can remain closed, or it can be opened.

Acknowledgments

We thank Smaranda Willcox (University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill) for the English language editing. We also thank Annamária Hlavatá, Paulína Káňovičová, and Jakub Králik (Department of Genetics, Comenius University in Bratislava) for sparking the idea about this Ten Simple Rules article.

Funding Statement

The authors received no specific funding for this work.

Generate accurate MLA citations for free

Knowledge Base
MLA format for academic papers and essays

MLA Format | Complete Guidelines & Free Template

Published on December 11, 2019 by Raimo Streefkerk . Revised on March 5, 2024 by Jack Caulfield.

The MLA Handbook provides guidelines for creating MLA citations and formatting academic papers. This quick guide will help you set up your MLA format paper in no time.

Start by applying these MLA format guidelines to your document:

Times New Roman 12
1″ page margins
Double line spacing
½” indent for new paragraphs
Title case capitalization for headings

For accurate citations, you can use our free MLA Citation Generator .

Download Word template Open Google Docs template

(To use the Google Docs template, copy the file to your Drive by clicking on ‘file’ > ‘Make a copy’)

How to set up mla format in google docs, header and title, running head, works cited page, creating mla style citations, headings and subheadings, tables and figures, frequently asked questions about mla format.

The header in MLA format is left-aligned on the first page of your paper. It includes

Your full name
Your instructor’s or supervisor’s name
The course name or number
The due date of the assignment

After the MLA header, press ENTER once and type your paper title. Center the title and don’t forget to apply title-case capitalization. Read our article on writing strong titles that are informative, striking and appropriate.

For a paper with multiple authors, it’s better to use a separate title page instead.

At the top of every page, including the first page, you need to include your last name and the page number. This is called the “running head.” Follow these steps to set up the MLA running head in your Word or Google Docs document:

Double-click at the top of a page
Type your last name
Insert automatic page numbering
Align the content to the right

The running head should look like this:

The Works Cited list is included on a separate page at the end of your paper. You list all the sources you referenced in your paper in alphabetical order. Don’t include sources that weren’t cited in the paper, except potentially in an MLA annotated bibliography assignment.

Place the title “Works Cited” in the center at the top of the page. After the title, press ENTER once and insert your MLA references.

If a reference entry is longer than one line, each line after the first should be indented ½ inch (called a hanging indent ). All entries are double spaced, just like the rest of the text.

Generate accurate MLA citations with Scribbr

Prefer to cite your sources manually? Use the interactive example below to see what the Works Cited entry and MLA in-text citation look like for different source types.

Headings and subheadings are not mandatory, but they can help you organize and structure your paper, especially in longer assignments.

MLA has only a few formatting requirements for headings. They should

Be written in title case
Be left-aligned
Not end in a period

We recommend keeping the font and size the same as the body text and applying title case capitalization. In general, boldface indicates greater prominence, while italics are appropriate for subordinate headings.

Chapter Title

Section Heading

Tip: Both Google Docs and Microsoft Word allow you to create heading levels that help you to keep your headings consistent.

Tables and other illustrations (referred to as “figures”) should be placed as close to the relevant part of text as possible. MLA also provides guidelines for presenting them.

MLA format for tables

Tables are labeled and numbered, along with a descriptive title. The label and title are placed above the table on separate lines; the label and number appear in bold.

A caption providing information about the source appears below the table; you don’t need one if the table is your own work.

Below this, any explanatory notes appear, marked on the relevant part of the table with a superscript letter. The first line of each note is indented; your word processor should apply this formatting automatically.

Just like in the rest of the paper, the text is double spaced and you should use title case capitalization for the title (but not for the caption or notes).

MLA format for figures

Figures (any image included in your paper that isn’t a table) are also labeled and numbered, but here, this is integrated into the caption below the image. The caption in this case is also centered.

The label “Figure” is abbreviated to “Fig.” and followed by the figure number and a period. The rest of the caption gives either full source information, or (as in the example here) just basic descriptive information about the image (author, title, publication year).

Source information in table and figure captions

If the caption of your table or figure includes full source information and that source is not otherwise cited in the text, you don’t need to include it in your Works Cited list.

Give full source information in a caption in the same format as you would in the Works Cited list, but without inverting the author name (i.e. John Smith, not Smith, John).

MLA recommends using 12-point Times New Roman , since it’s easy to read and installed on every computer. Other standard fonts such as Arial or Georgia are also acceptable. If in doubt, check with your supervisor which font you should be using.

The main guidelines for formatting a paper in MLA style are as follows:

Use an easily readable font like 12 pt Times New Roman
Set 1 inch page margins
Apply double line spacing
Include a four-line MLA heading on the first page
Center the paper’s title
Indent every new paragraph ½ inch
Use title case capitalization for headings
Cite your sources with MLA in-text citations
List all sources cited on a Works Cited page at the end

The fastest and most accurate way to create MLA citations is by using Scribbr’s MLA Citation Generator .

Search by book title, page URL, or journal DOI to automatically generate flawless citations, or cite manually using the simple citation forms.

The MLA Handbook is currently in its 9th edition , published in 2021.

This quick guide to MLA style explains the latest guidelines for citing sources and formatting papers according to MLA.

Usually, no title page is needed in an MLA paper . A header is generally included at the top of the first page instead. The exceptions are when:

Your instructor requires one, or
Your paper is a group project

In those cases, you should use a title page instead of a header, listing the same information but on a separate page.

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

Streefkerk, R. (2024, March 05). MLA Format | Complete Guidelines & Free Template. Scribbr. Retrieved March 20, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/mla/formatting/

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17+ MLA Letter Format – Examples, Email Template, Wording Ideas

Letter Format
March 6, 2024
Business Letters , Cover Letters , Formal Letters , Friendly Letters

MLA Letter Format : The Modern Language Association (MLA) style is commonly used for academic writing in the humanities . MLA Cover letter format is a standard format used for writing formal letters in the MLA style . This article will provide guidelines and examples for MLA letter format.

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MLA Letter Format Tips

Content in this article

General Guidelines:

Use standard 8.5 x 11 inch paper for your Business letter .
Use a legible font, such as Times New Roman or Arial, and a font size of 12.
Use 1-inch margins on all sides of the page.
Include a header with your name, instructor’s name, course title, and date in the upper left-hand corner of the first page.
Use block format, meaning all text is left-aligned, with single-spacing within paragraphs and double-spacing between paragraphs.
Include a closing and signature, and leave space for your signature and printed name.

Letter Components:

Your Address: Type your name, address, phone number, and email address in the top right-hand corner of the page.
Date: Skip a line and add the date under your address.
Recipient’s Address: Skip another line and add the recipient’s name, title, organization or company, address, and city, state, and zip code.
Salutation: Skip another line and add a salutation. If you don’t know the name of the person you’re writing to, use “Dear Sir or Madam.”
Body: Skip another line and begin your letter with an introduction that briefly explains the purpose of your letter. The body of your MLA Letter Format should contain the main message you want to convey. Use clear and concise language and avoid using jargon or technical terms that your reader may not understand. You can also include any supporting evidence, such as data or examples, to strengthen your argument.
Closing: Skip a line and add a closing, such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards.” If you’re writing to someone you know well, you can use a more informal closing, such as “Take care” or “Cheers.” Follow your closing with a comma.
Signature: Skip four lines and include your handwritten signature. If you’re sending an electronic letter, you can use a digital signature.
Printed Name: Skip two lines and type your full name.

MLA Letter Format – Sample Format

Below is a Sample Format of MLA Letter Format:

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, ZIP Code] [Email Address] [Phone Number] [Date]

[Recipient’s Name] [Recipient’s Title, if applicable] [Company or Institution Name] [Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]

Dear [Recipient’s Last Name],

[Opening Paragraph:] Begin the letter with a formal salutation, such as “Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. [Last Name],”. If you have a specific title for the recipient, include it in the salutation.

[Body Paragraphs:] Compose the body of the letter, ensuring that each paragraph is indented. Maintain a formal tone and structure, and use clear and concise language to convey your message.

[Closing Paragraph:] Conclude the letter by summarizing your main points and expressing gratitude or goodwill. Use a closing phrase such as “Sincerely,” or “Yours faithfully,” followed by your signature.

[Your Full Name (Typed)] [Your Signature, if sending a physical letter]

[Note: The above template provides a general outline for a formal MLA letter. Adjust the content and formatting based on the specific context and purpose of your letter.]

MLA Letter Format – Example

Here’s an Example of MLA Letter Format:

[Your Name]

[Your Address]

[City, State ZIP Code]

[Recipient Name]

[Recipient Address]

Dear [Recipient Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the position of [Job Title] that was recently advertised on [Source of the job advertisement]. I am a recent graduate of [Name of University] with a degree in [Your Field of Study], and I believe that my education and experience make me an ideal candidate for the role.

In addition to my academic background, I have gained valuable skills through internships and volunteer work in [Related Field]. I am particularly drawn to this position because [Reasons Why You Are Interested In This Position]. I am confident that my skills and experience make me a strong fit for the role.

Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume and references for your review. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or need further information.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Formal Letter in MLA Style

A template for crafting formal letters in MLA style, incorporating proper formatting, structured paragraphs, and appropriate salutations and closings for clear and professional communication.

[Note: This format adheres to the MLA style for formal letters. Ensure that you follow any specific guidelines provided by your institution or publication.]

MLA Friendly Letter Format

The Modern Language Association (MLA) does not provide specific guidelines for friendly letters, as it mainly focuses on academic writing. However, you can follow a general friendly letter format with informal language, maintaining clarity and friendliness:

[Recipient’s Name] [Recipient’s Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]

Dear [Recipient’s First Name],

[Opening Paragraph:] Begin the letter with a warm greeting, mentioning your relationship or any shared experiences.

[Body Paragraphs:] Share your news, stories, or any relevant information. Keep the tone casual and friendly, allowing your personality to shine through.

[Closing Paragraph:] Wrap up the letter with a friendly closing, expressing anticipation for future communication or sharing plans to meet.

Best regards,

[Your Full Name]

Remember, the key to a friendly letter is to maintain a warm and approachable tone while following basic letter-writing conventions.

MLA Letter Format – Template

This is a Template of MLA Letter Format:

I am writing to request an extension on the deadline for my [Name of Assignment] assignment. Due to unforeseen circumstances, I have been unable to complete the assignment on time, and I am hoping to request an extension until [New Deadline Date].

I understand that this may cause inconvenience, and I apologize for any inconvenience that this may cause. I assure you that I will use the additional time to ensure that the assignment is of the highest quality.

Thank you for your understanding. Please let me know if you require any further information or documentation.

MLA Style Letter to a Professor

A template for crafting a formal letter to a professor in MLA style, ensuring a respectful tone, clear structure, and adherence to academic conventions.

[Professor’s Full Name] [Department] [University Name] [University Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]

Dear Professor [Last Name],

[Opening Paragraph:] Begin with a formal salutation, addressing the professor respectfully, such as “Dear Professor [Last Name],”.

[Body Paragraphs:] Compose the body of the letter, maintaining a formal tone and structure. Clearly state the purpose of your letter and provide any necessary context or details.

[Closing Paragraph:] Conclude the letter by expressing gratitude and including a closing phrase such as “Sincerely,” or “Yours faithfully,” followed by your signature.

[Note: Follow specific guidelines provided by your educational institution for any additional details or requirements for communication with professors using MLA style.]

MLA Format for Application Letter

A structured template for an application letter in MLA format, designed for clarity and professionalism in presenting qualifications and intentions for a job or academic position.

[Employer’s Name] [Company Name] [Company Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]

Dear [Employer’s Last Name],

[Opening Paragraph:] Begin the letter with a formal salutation, such as “Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. [Last Name],”.

[Body Paragraphs:] Compose the body of the letter, ensuring each paragraph is indented. Clearly state the purpose of your application, highlight your qualifications, and express your interest in the position.

[Closing Paragraph:] Conclude the letter by summarizing your main points, expressing enthusiasm for the opportunity, and using a closing phrase such as “Sincerely,” or “Yours faithfully.”

[Note: Adapt the content based on the specific requirements of the job application and follow any additional guidelines provided by the employer or institution.]

MLA Recommendation Letter

A template for crafting a recommendation letter in MLA format, designed to convey a professional and detailed endorsement of an individual’s capabilities and attributes.

[Recipient’s Full Name] [Title, if applicable] [Institution or Company Name] [Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]

[Body Paragraphs:] Compose the body of the letter, maintaining a formal tone and structure. Clearly state your recommendation for the individual, providing specific examples of their qualifications, skills, and character.

[Closing Paragraph:] Conclude the letter by summarizing the individual’s strengths and expressing confidence in their abilities. Use a closing phrase such as “Sincerely,” or “Yours faithfully.”

[Note: Follow specific guidelines provided by the institution or employer regarding the content and formatting of recommendation letters in MLA style.]

Email Format about MLA Letter format

Here’s an Email Format for MLA Letter Format:

Subject: MLA Letter Format

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to inquire about the proper MLA letter format for my upcoming assignment/job application. I am aware that MLA is mostly associated with academic writing, but I was informed that it is also appropriate for letter writing.

Could you please provide me with some guidelines or a sample of an MLA letter format that I can follow? I would greatly appreciate any assistance you can provide.

Thank you in advance for your time and help. Please let me know if you require any further information from me.

Email Format about MLA Letter Format

MLA Resignation Letter

A template for creating a resignation letter in MLA format, ensuring a clear and respectful expression of your decision to resign and gratitude for the opportunities during your tenure.

[Recipient’s Name] [Company Name] [Company Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]

[Opening Paragraph:] Begin with a formal salutation, such as “Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. [Last Name],”.

[Body Paragraphs:] Compose the body of the letter, maintaining a formal tone and structure. Clearly state your intention to resign from your position, provide the effective date of your resignation, and express gratitude for the opportunities.

[Closing Paragraph:] Conclude the letter by expressing appreciation for the experience gained and offering assistance during the transition. Use a closing phrase such as “Sincerely,” or “Yours faithfully.”

[Note: Follow specific guidelines provided by your company and ensure that the content of the letter aligns with professional standards.]

MLA Acknowledgment Letter

A template for drafting an acknowledgment letter in MLA format, designed to convey appreciation and recognition formally, adhering to clear and organized communication standards.

[Body Paragraphs:] Express your gratitude and acknowledgment in a formal tone. Clearly state the purpose of the acknowledgment, providing any necessary details.

[Closing Paragraph:] Conclude the letter by summarizing the acknowledgment and expressing appreciation. Use a closing phrase such as “Sincerely,” or “Yours faithfully.”

[Note: Adapt the content based on the specific acknowledgment being made and follow any additional guidelines provided by the institution or organization.]

MLA Thank You Letter

A template for creating a thank-you letter in MLA format, designed to convey appreciation in a formal and organized manner, adhering to the principles of MLA style for clear and effective communication.

[Body Paragraphs:] Express your gratitude in a formal tone. Clearly state the purpose of the thank-you letter and provide specific details about why you are grateful.

[Closing Paragraph:] Conclude the letter by summarizing your appreciation and expressing thanks again. Use a closing phrase such as “Sincerely,” or “Yours faithfully.”

[Note: Tailor the content based on the specific context and reason for expressing thanks. Follow any additional guidelines provided by the institution or organization.]

FAQS for MLA Letter Format – Examples, Email Template, Wording Ideas

How do i format a letter in mla style.

Ensure your MLA Letter Format follows MLA conventions, including proper heading, salutation, body paragraphs with indentation, and a formal closing.

Can I use MLA Letter Format for email correspondence?

While MLA Letter Format is primarily for academic writing, you can apply its principles to emails by incorporating proper formatting and maintaining a professional tone.

Are there specific guidelines for addressing recipients in MLA Letter Format?

Yes, This MLA Letter Format address recipients formally using titles (Mr., Ms., Dr.) and include their last name in the salutation (e.g., “Dear Dr. Smith”).

What is the recommended font and size for MLA Letter Format?

Use a legible font like Times New Roman or Arial, size 12, for MLA Letter Format to ensure readability and adherence to MLA style.

Can I include bullet points or lists in An MLA Letter Format?

MLA Letter Format generally prefers narrative writing, but if the content benefits from lists, use clear and concise bullet points, ensuring they follow MLA conventions for formatting.

MLA Letter Format is a standard format used for writing formal letters in the MLA style . By following the guidelines and examples provided in this article, you can write a clear and concise letter that conveys your message effectively .

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How to Format Your MLA Cover Page:

This page is double spaced and the letters are centered.
Font: Times New Roman
Font size: 12
The first letter of each word should be capitalized with the exception of very short words such as: the, and, of, or, a, an, in, to, for. Note: the first letter of the first word should be capitalized, regardless of what kind of word it is.
Type the name of your university, college or high school.
Skip to about one-third of the page and type your research paper title, include a subtitle if you have.
Skip several lines down and type your name, your course name and number, your instructor name and your paper due date.

Sample MLA Format Cover Page:

Sample MLA Format Cover Page

Alternate First Page (Important):

If your instructor requires a cover page, you would omit the main heading on your first page.

Here is an example of the first page if a cover page is used. You still need your last name and page number on the first page and every other page.

Sample MLA Format First Page with Cover Page

Sample MLA Paper:

Visit here for a sample paper with the cover page. The cover page can vary slightly. This paper also has the outline page for your sample.

ty ty ty ty

thank you sir

thank you so much for this amazing guide

thanks a lot!

this was very helpful thank you mrs. silvey

yeah thanks mrs. story

Thank you for the example of the cover page.

thank mrs story

Thank You Ms. K! (¬‿¬)

Resumes & Cover Letters

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Your resume is a powerful marketing tool to land an interview. Employers typically scan a resume for 15-30 seconds, so craft a resume that is clear, concise, and demonstrates how you meet their needs.

How to Build Your Resume

Reflect on your experience.

Make a list of special qualities that set you apart from other applicants. Employers will be looking for examples of:

How your skills/experience/knowledge fit with the position/industry/organization.
Your ability to deal with high-pressure situations.
Willingness to assume responsibility.
A high energy level.
Strong interpersonal skills and initiative.

Think of specific examples of where and how each skill or attribute led to a tangible result or achievement. Include work experience, internships, volunteer activities, clubs and organizations, research projects, sports, etc. Consider the following as you get started. Have you:

Identified and/or helped solve any problems? Instituted any new methods, systems, or procedures?
Acquired industry-specific knowledge?
Done something faster, better, or cheaper?
Increased membership, participation, or sales?
Saved your organization money or reduced waste?
Suggested a new service, product, or project?
Re-organized or improved an existing system?
Refined the nature of an existing task?
Maintained a consistently high level of performance?
Demonstrated leadership skills and exhibited good team player skills?
Reached out for more work or more responsibility?
Achieved results with little or no supervision?
Motivated others?
Coordinated an event or project?
Trained another person? What were the results?
Tutored anyone? Did their grades improve?

Emphasize the Results

Show measurable results to an employer. Quantifying and qualifying your accomplishments gives prospective employers a sense of how you went about an assignment or project and the bottom-line results of your performance. Numbers speak volumes to people who make hiring decisions. Qualifying your results is also important so prospective employers can see the impact of your services. Here are a few examples of how you can turn your bullet points into powerful statements that demonstrate your accomplishments.

Instead of: “Organized all sorority philanthropic events.” Write this: “Organized all sorority philanthropic events which resulted in contributions of over $4000.”

Instead of: “Served food.” Write this: “Developed tact and diplomacy when dealing with customers in a fast-paced environment”

Instead of: “Responsible for typing and filing.” Write this: “Commended for efficiency and accuracy in completing office duties”

Building a Powerful Resume

Writing a stand out resume requires the perfect combination of formatting and content. Make sure your resume is easy to read, understand, and digest.

Resume Format

Name & Contact

At top of resume, centered or justified to left or right. Name should be larger by at least 4 points.
If you have a preferred name, include it in parentheses between your first and last.
May include contact information on one line, separating address, phone, and email with a bullet.

Margins & Spacing

0.5” to 1” on all sides
Include white space between the sections of your resume. The space should go before each section heading (not necessary after each section heading).
Include a space between each item within each section so that it’s clear where one ends and the next begins.

Font Format

Size: 10-12 points
Font: Any that is easily legible (ie Arial, Calibri, Cambria, Helvetica, Times). Use the same font throughout.
Color: Black is preferred. Color may be difficult for some to see and/or not industry-appropriate.
Typical items to bold include Name and Headings.
You may bold whatever content is most relevant to the position such as the university name under Education or your position title under Experience.

Tables & Text Boxes

Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to scan resume submissions for keywords. Avoid tables, text boxes, and other complex formatting, as they may make it difficult for the ATS to scan your resume.

Length & Paper

1 page for undergraduate students and recent grads. Fill the page completely.
2 pages may be acceptable for grad students and others with extensive relevant experience.
When printing your resume, use 8 1/2” x 11” resume paper in white or ivory.
Experience descriptions should be in bullet list format.
Use bullets and avoid dashes, arrows, check boxes, or diamonds.
List all dates along the same margin (right preferred).
Include months and years for each experience instead of the year only or the quarter/season.
You may format dates as numbers (09/20xx), words (September 20xx), or abbreviate (Sept. 20xx). Be consistent.

Category Headings

Left justified (preferred) or centered.
All caps and bold (preferred).
May include a bottom border line. To add a line under your section headings in MS Word, go to Home > Paragraph > select the Bottom Border icon.

Resume Content: Essential Categories

Contact Information

Name (16-18 pts), address, phone #, email, and web address (optional).
Make sure your email address and your phone’s voicemail greeting are professional.
Name of school, degree earned or seeking (i.e., BS, BA, MS, MA, PhD), major and minor, expected graduation date (month and year), and GPA (if required or if above 3.0).
List highest degree first. Include study abroad. High school information should be omitted after sophomore year at the latest.
Job title, company name, location (city, state), dates of experience, bullet points describing your actions, skills, and accomplishments.
May include any type of experience: paid and unpaid positions, internships, military service, volunteer, leadership – anything you’ve done that’s relevant to the position you’re seeking.

Resume Content: Additional Categories

Include only those categories that best represent your qualifications for the position. The order of your resume categories should be based on the needs of the position.

Objective (Optional)

A specific, concise, one-sentence description of the position desired.
For a specific position, include the title and company name. For general use, omit or state the field, industry, type(s) of positions you are seeking.

Qualifications Summary

List of all of your qualifications for the position (tailored to the job posting).
Typically toward the top of the resume, after Education
Categorize the relevant, concrete skills you possess. Categories may include: Languages, Computer, Laboratory
List only the skills you can perform with little or no supervision. State your proficiency level with languages and programs (fluent, advanced, proficient, etc.).

Relevant Coursework/Projects

List course titles (not numbers) of relevant courses, in order of relevance. If a lab, include (Lab) after title.
May be listed separately or as a subsection under Education.

Honors & Awards

Students & recent grads can include academic honors, awards and scholarships.
May be listed separately or as a subsection under “Education”. Include date or # of quarters honors, awards, & scholarships received.
List the research project, department/lab/organization name, dates, and description of the project, methods, & findings.
Use same format as Experience section.

Publications

Cite publications using the correct format for your discipline (MLA, APA, etc.). Bold your name.
Identify if still in submitted status. May also indicate if peer-reviewed.
List office(s) held, organization, dates, and a brief description of accomplishments * Use same format as Experience section.

Activities/Volunteer

List membership in any clubs, sports, or community service experiences.
May not include a description, depending upon the depth of your involvement.

Interests (Optional)

List outside hobbies, interests and talents. * Only include those that are unique, specific,and/or require skill/dedication.

Certifications/Licenses

List is applicable to the position or field
Can go under Education or Skills

Do Not Include

References should not be on your resume, but can be on a separate page.
Personal information such as marital status, citizenship, date of birth, etc.
Pictures or headshots should not be included on a resume (except if applying for acting/modeling positions or in countries where it is customary to include a photo).

Build Your Bullet Points

There is a formula for creating detailed, compelling bullet points. The content of each bullet point should contain the following:

What did you do? : What were your duties, responsibilities, and/or projects?

How did you do it? : Specific tools, resources, or technology (transferable skills)

Elaborate with details : How often? How many? What was the purpose? Who else was involved? (Use numbers when possible.)

What were the results? : What did you accomplish or improve? Did you meet or exceed a goal? Did you create something new? (Use numbers when possible.)

Download the “Build Your Bullet Points” worksheet here .

CV vs. Resume

A Curriculum Vitae (CV) may be requested in lieu of a resume, typically for academic, scholarly or research opportunities. For undergraduate students, the differences between a CV and a resume are limited.

Curriculum Vitae (CV) * Audience: Academics, researchers, or teachers * Goal: To obtain an academic or research position, grant, or fellowship * Structure & Format: Complete history of your academic credentials – research, teaching, awards, funding, service * Focus: Your academic achievements and your scholarly potential * Unnecessary Information: Activities not related to academic pursuits (ie., personal information, irrelevant work experience, hobbies, etc.) * Length: Flexible

Audience: Potential employers and networking contacts
Goal: To obtain a position in any industry outside of academia
Structure & Format: Brief snapshot of your most relevant skills and work experience. Most relevant skills and experiences should be in the first 1/3 of the resume. Resumes are targeted specifically for the job description
Focus: Relevant experience and demonstrated skills through accomplishments that prove you can do the job well
Unnecessary Information: Unabridged list of publications, presentations, conferences attended, courses taught. Work or accomplishments that are not relevant to the position
Length: 1-2 pages (One page highly recommended)

Target Your Resume to the Job

Your Skills + Their Need = Connection

Make it easy for the employer to see your fit for the job.
Do not assume they will “know what you mean” – be specific.
Use action verbs to demonstrate what you have accomplished.
Use the job posting as a guideline for targeting your resume.

Steps to Target Your Resume

Create a great resume following the guidelines in the preceding pages of this chapter.
Review the job description. Read the specific skills and qualifications: underline words/phrases that match your background. Read the job responsibilities: underline words/phrases that match your background. Take an inventory of your experiences: how and where have you applied these skills?
Use the keywords from the job posting in the targeted industry (Online applications are often matched to keywords in job posting for screening out resumes)
If the job posting is very limited, find similar jobs to use as a guide
The cover letter will also be targeted and can elaborate your “fit”

To see a variety of sample resumes targeted to specific positions and industries, download Chapter 6 of the Career Guide at the bottom of this page.

Writing a Stand Out Cover Letter

A cover letter should communicate your strong interest in the company and your enthusiasm for the position or internship you’re applying for.

Purpose of the Cover Letter

Brief overview of qualifications.
Differentiate yourself from the crowd.
Captivate the attention of the reader.
Communicate interest in the organization.
Convince the employer of your skills and accomplishments.

Rules for Cover Letters

Address the employer’s “wish list”.
Assess the employer’s needs.
Actively promote yourself.

Focus on What You Have to Offer

Describe how your skills, expertise, and past accomplishments can benefit the employer.
Follow standard business letter format.
Write clearly and concisely, and proofread your letter for spelling and grammar.
Use the same font and paper that you used for your resume.

Send Your Cover Letter to a Specific Individual

Ideally, the letter should be addressed to the person who is likely to make employment decisions. It may take some resourcefulness on your part to identify this person, but the letter will probably be better received.
Make sure you have the correct spelling of their name and title before submitting.
If you cannot find the name of the person the letter is addressed to, you may use a title that is specific such as “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear Internship Coordinator”.
Don’t forget to sign your letter (You can scan it and include it as a .jpg).

Cover Letter Samples

There are cover letter samples in Chapter 6 of the Career Guide and in Firsthand .

Resist the temptation to take a “fill-in-the-blank” approach based on the samples.
Do not use the exact same language found in a sample. Your cover letter should be a reflection of you.
A cover letter need not stick to a set structure or outline as long as it effectively communicates your fit for the company and position as well as your desire to work for them.

For more information on Resumes & Cover Letters, download Chapter 6 of the UCLA Career Guide .

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Quick Formatting Tips for Cover Letters

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This page provides a down-and-dirty guide to writing cover letters. Here you will find brief answers and lists of what you should include in a cover letter, how to order and format such a letter, and what to do before sending it out.

Remember that the basic format of a cover letter follows that of a business letter. As you design the page, think about the following:

Keep it to one page.
Write one introductory paragraph, one to three paragraphs to highlight your skills, and one concluding paragraph.
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.)

IMAGES

Mla Cover Letter Template Samples
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Mla Cover Letter Template Samples
038 Template Ideas Mla Format Download Unique Cover Letter in Mla
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Mla Cover Letter Template Samples

VIDEO

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How to write a cover letter : Sinhala
Cover letter Pattern
Part 2 and 3 coming soon #UpWork #upworkproposal Part 1
How to write a good Cover letter
Cover Letter for Law Internship

COMMENTS

MLA Format Cover Page
The first letter of each word should be capitalized with the exception of very short words such as: the, and, of, or, a, an, in, to, for. Note: the first letter of the first word should be capitalized, regardless of what kind of word it is. ... Sample MLA Format Cover Page: Sample MLA Format Cover Page. Alternate First Page: If your instructor ...
Academic Cover Letter Sample
Academic Cover Letter Sample. I am writing to apply for the position as assistant professor of English with an emphasis in rhetoric and composition that you advertised in the October MLA Job Information List. I am a graduate student at Prestigious University working on a dissertation under the direction of Professor Prominent Figure.
PDF Like an Essay: Cover Letter Exercise 1
Like an Essay: Cover Letter Exercise 1 INDIVIDUAL EXERCISE Instructions: 1. Underline the thesis. 2. Circle transitional words and phrases. 3. Place a square around words that you think the writer directly borrowed from the job description. February 3, 2020 Garnette Bilbo HR Director Moonsun Labs 220 Science St. Pembroke, NC 20050 Dear Ms. Bilbo:
Academic Cover Letters
The First Paragraph. In the opening of your letter you need to convey some basic information, such as what specific position you are applying for (using the title given in the job notice) and where you learned of the opening. Since a cover letter is a kind of persuasive writing (persuading a hiring committee to include you on a list of ...
How to Apply Composition Techniques to a Cover Letter
Sequence of Activities. Reading and Analysis (10-15 mins.) Students read the sample cover letter, then complete exercise 1, in which they find the cover letter's thesis, transitions, and elements they think were mentioned in the job description. Class Discussion (5 mins.) As a class, we discuss and compare students' answers.
Cover Letters Part 1
What should my cover letter look like? Your cover letter should be one page and single-spaced. Your letter should have 1-inch margins all the way around the page. Your cover letter text font should match your résumé's text font. Lastly, your letter should also follow a business letter format.
The MLA Guide for Writing Cover Letters
Basic Information. Address your MLA cover letter as you normally would any other cover letter. Use personal stationery or print your address and other contact information on the sheet. Include the employer's address, the date and a greeting line. If you have address the letter specifically to one person, the greeting line should read "Dear Mr.
PDF Dr. Jason Hoppe
Writing Reflective Cover Letters to College Writing Assignments A cover letter sets some of the terms of your reader's experience; think of this letter as an opportunity for you to specify the kind of feedback you want. Your letter initiates a dialogue between us and provides me with a more educated starting point for evaluating your work.
MLA Guidelines on Letters of Recommendation
The MLA recommends that letters of recommendation for academic jobs be two to three pages long. Whatever their length, such letters should offer a detailed and engaging statement about the candidate's qualities and accomplishments as a scholar, a teacher, and an engaged member of the community. Recommenders may craft different letters for ...
Ten simple rules for writing a cover letter to accompany a job
Following Darwin's example, before starting to compose an application letter, it should prove helpful to summarize the reasons in favor of (and also against) applying for the position. Perform detailed research of the available positions that may suit you. ... Although a well-written cover letter is only a small step towards a successful job ...
MLA Format
MLA format is a widely used citation style for academic papers. Learn how to format your title page, header, and Works Cited page with our free template and examples. Watch our 3-minute video to see how easy it is to apply MLA rules to your document.
17+ MLA Letter Format
Use standard 8.5 x 11 inch paper for your Business letter. Use a legible font, such as Times New Roman or Arial, and a font size of 12. Use 1-inch margins on all sides of the page. Include a header with your name, instructor's name, course title, and date in the upper left-hand corner of the first page. Use block format, meaning all text is ...
MLA Format Cover Page
The first letter of each word should be capitalized with the exception of very short words such as: the, and, of, or, a, an, in, to, for. ... Sample MLA Format Cover Page: Sample MLA Format Cover Page. Alternate First Page (Important): If your instructor requires a cover page, you would omit the main heading on your first page.
MLA Sample Paper
MLA Works Cited Page: Periodicals; MLA Works Cited: Electronic Sources (Web Publications) MLA Works Cited: Other Common Sources; MLA Additional Resources; MLA Abbreviations; MLA Sample Works Cited Page; MLA Sample Paper; MLA Tables, Figures, and Examples; MLA PowerPoint Presentation; MLA Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) MLA Classroom Poster ...
PDF Cover Letters for Academic Positions
a sample of scholarly work. Letters of reference will arrive under a separate cover for your consideration. I will gladly provide any other supporting materials upon request. I will be attending the MLA convention in Los Angeles this January, and would be glad to meet you there at your convenience. Thank you for your
Cover Letter Samples and Templates
Cover Letter Samples. When you're applying for a job, a cover letter lets you show a personal side and demonstrate why hiring you is a smart decision. Cover letters should be around three paragraphs long and include specific examples from your past experience that make you qualified for the position.A cover letter should include the following ...
Cover Letters
A letter sign off and signature; Good fonts to use for cover letters are the same as for academic papers. They should be clear, easy to read, and professional. Some examples are Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman in 11 or 12 point font. In general, cover letters do not need to be longer than one page. Sample Cover Letter
Cover Letters
Introduction. These resources will help you understand and write successful cover letters. To use these pages, you may select links in the navigation bar on the left, you may select links from the list below, or you may advance through the pages using the links at the bottom of each page. Click here to download the PDF file containing sample ...
Resumes & Cover Letters
Cover Letter Samples. There are cover letter samples in Chapter 6 of the Career Guide and in Firsthand. Resist the temptation to take a "fill-in-the-blank" approach based on the samples. Do not use the exact same language found in a sample. Your cover letter should be a reflection of you.
General Format
General Guidelines. Type your paper on a computer and print it out on standard, white 8.5 x 11-inch paper. Double-space the text of your paper and use a legible font (e.g. Times New Roman). Whatever font you choose, MLA recommends that the regular and italics type styles contrast enough that they are each distinct from one another.
How To Format a Cover Letter (With Outline and Examples)
If you're providing a hard copy of your cover letter, handwrite your signature and also include your full typed name. Download Cover Letter Outline Template. To upload the template into Google Docs, go to File > Open > and select the correct downloaded file. Related: Creating the Perfect Cover Letter (With Template and Example)
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 it to one page. Write one introductory paragraph, one to three paragraphs to highlight your skills, and one concluding paragraph. Spacing. Single-space your cover letter.

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How to Apply Composition Techniques to a Cover Letter

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Ten simple rules for writing a cover letter to accompany a job application for an academic position

Jozef Nosek

Introduction

Rule 1: Before starting the application, make a list of pros and cons for the position

Rule 2: Remember KISS—Keep It Short and Simple

Rule 3: Be original, nonconformist, and personal

Rule 4: Show motivation and sincere interest

Rule 5: Provide an honest description of yourself

Rule 6: Highlight your strengths

Rule 7: Do not recycle

Rule 8: Avoid overstatements and false claims

Rule 9: Do not underestimate the formal quality of the letter

Rule 10: Plan ahead and do not rush

Acknowledgments

Funding Statement

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How to Format Your MLA Cover Page:

Sample MLA Format Cover Page:

Alternate First Page (Important):

Sample MLA Paper:

Resumes & Cover Letters