When writing a cover letter for a job, the margins should be approximately 1" all around. The left and right margin will be set at 1" and the top and bottom margins should also be set at 1". This gives your cover letter an uncluttered look and provides plenty of white space which helps with readability.
You should align your text to the left; this is how most documents are aligned, so it will make your letter readable.
When You Need More Space for the Letter
If you have more text than fits on a single page, you can tighten up the margins slightly rather than writing a two page letter. Keep the margins consistent so your letter is balanced on the page. For example, if you adjust all the margins to .75" it will give you more lines and space for the letter content.
Another option is to reduce the left and right margin to .75 and leave the top at 1". Try several options to see which looks best.
When You Need Less Space for the Letter
If your letter is short, you can make the margins larger so the letter looks balanced on the page without too much white space. In that case, try 1.5" for each of the margins.
How to Adjust Page Margin Settings in Microsoft Word
Here's how to adjust the margins in Word:
- Click on Page Layout / Margins / Normal (for 1" margins)
- There are a variety of other selections or you can set your own margins by clicking on: Page Layout / Margins Custom
How to Adjust Page Margin Settings in Google Docs
Here's how to adjust the margins in Google Docs:
- Click on File / Page Set Up
- You can adjust all the margins (left, right, top and bottom) from this window.
How to Write a Cover Letter
How to write a cover letter, including what to include in your cover letter, how to write a cover letter, cover letter format, targeted cover letters, and cover letter samples and examples.
How to Format a Cover Letter
Your cover letters should follow the basic format of a typical business letter and should address three general issues including why you are writing, what you have to offer and how you will follow up.
Sample Cover Letters
Cover letter samples and examples, cover letter format, plus templates you can customize to create your own cover letters.
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