Letter Format

How to format a letter? Letter formats and templates vary between the USA and the UK. Here's a brief overview of common letter formats and templates in each region:

Browse through our letter templates below, get inspirited immediately!

Letter format United States (USA)

Block Format:

The most common format.

Left-aligned, with single-spaced paragraphs and double-spaced between them.

No indentation; each paragraph starts at the left margin.

Block Style Business Letter

What is Block Format? How to create a Block Style Business Letter? Download this Block Style Business Letter template now!

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Modified Block Format:

Similar to block format but with the sender's address, date, and closing aligned to the right.

The body of the letter remains left-aligned.

Modified Block Style

What is Modified Block Format? Have a look at this modified block style template for your reference.

file format: .docxView template

Semi-Block Format:

Similar to modified block format, but with each paragraph indented. Similar to indented letter below.

Semi block letter format

What is semi block format? Since the introduction of email, a lot has changed in the professional way of communication.

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Full Block Format:

All elements, including the date and closing, are left-aligned.

No indentation; paragraphs are separated by a double space.

Block Letter Format

What is block letter format? Are you looking for a template in block letter format? Check out this example block letter format and learn how to make your own block format in MS Word.

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Common Letter Templates in the USA:

Business Letter:

Used for professional communication, with a formal tone.

Typically follows block or modified block format.

Modern Business Letter

How to write a Modern Business Letter? If you feel overwhelmed, let this template help you out.

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Cover Letter:

Accompanies a resume during job applications.

Introduces the applicant, highlights qualifications, and expresses interest.

Cover Letter Template Word

How do I use a cover letter template in Word? Do cover letters need a template? Download this file with several sample job cover letter templates now!

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Personal Letter:

Used for informal communication.

Can follow any format, depending on personal preference.

Personal Letter Format

How do I write a personal letter to a friend? Using this Personal Letter template guarantees you will save time or effort! Download this sample now.

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Letter Format United Kingdom (UK)

Block Format:

Similar to the USA, with left-aligned paragraphs and no indentation.

The sender's address, date, and closing may be right-aligned.

Modified Block Format:

Similar to the USA but with sender's address, date, and closing aligned to the left.

The body of the letter remains right-aligned.

Indented Format:

With the indented letter format, the first line of each paragraph is indented by o.5 inches or 1.27cm. Each paragraph is indented.

Semi block letter format

What is semi block format? Since the introduction of email, a lot has changed in the professional way of communication.

file format: .docxView template

Semi-Block Format:

Similar to indented format but with paragraphs left-aligned.

Common Letter Templates in the UK:

Formal Letter:

Used for official or business communication.

Follows block or modified block format.

Formal Business Letter Writing

How to draft a Formal Business Letter? We provide a perfect guide on how to compose a professional Business Letter that fits your needs!

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Informal Letter:

Used for personal communication.

Often follows indented or semi-block format.

Informal letter format

How to format an informal letter? Download this Informal letter (letters written to friends and family) format template here.

file format: .docxView template

Cover Letter (UK):

Similar to the USA cover letter but may include additional personal details.

UK cover letter samples

How to format a covering letter in the UK? Download our UK letter format template (UK or British letter format) here for your convenience to make sure you understand the differences.

file format: .docxView template

Letter Format Templates Google Docs (UK&USA):

Business Letter Format Google Docs

How to write a business letter in Google Docs? Mastering the Art of Business Communication: Crafting Business Letters in Google Docs

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Note: While these templates provide a general framework, specific organizations or individuals may have variations or preferences for formatting. Always check for any specific guidelines provided.