Cover Letters: Getting Started

Cover letters are meant to answer two simple questions:
1. Why are you interested in this specific position (job, internship, research position, etc.)?
2. Why are you the best fit for the role?

Rather than simply repeating what’s on your resume, it should instead help bridge the skills and experiences on your resume with the skills required for the role that you’re applying to. It is also an example of your writing abilities.

How to Write a Cover Letter

Opening Paragraph: Your introduction should clearly state the position you are applying for. It’s not necessary to give your name, major, or degree in the opening sentence, since they can see this information on your resume. Instead, jump right in by indicating your purpose for writing, interest in the position and/or company, and a statement summarizing your qualifications.

Questions to consider:

  • What job are you applying for and where did you find it?
  • Why are you interested in this role or company?
  • What experiences, skills, or goals make you a good match?

Body Paragraphs (aim for two): Your body paragraphs should go into detail about your qualifications. Again, do not repeat what is already visible on your resume.
Instead, tell them about…

  • What connection your past experience has to this future role
  • What you can uniquely bring to their company
  • Why an experience on your resume was significant to your professional growth
  • One hallmark of an engaging cover letter is to include stories or examples of your skills in action.
  • Consider replacing your “I did X, Y, and Z” sentences with “By doing X, I gained…:”, “Through doing Y, I learned…”, or One way I built [skill] is through Z…”

Additional questions to consider:

  • What’s one relevant experience that shows your fit?
  • What skills did you use or develop?
  • What was the impact or outcome?
  • How does this relate to the job you’re applying for?

Closing Paragraph: Your conclusion doesn’t need to be long, usually 3-4 short sentences. You can include a summarizing statement of your qualifications and interest, a thank you to the employer for their time, and an indication of your interest in speaking with them further in an interview. Optionally, you can include how you prefer to be contacted.

Things to mention:

  • Reinforce your interest in the role or organization.
  • Mention what you hope to contribute or learn.
  • Include a polite call to action.

Formatting Tips

  • Use a business letter template
  • Include your contact information at the top of your cover letter (it should match the way it looks on your resume)
  • Use an easy to read font like Times New Roman or Arial
  • Use size 12 font
  • Keep your cover letter to no more than a half to one full page

Cover Letter Guide (PDF)