How to Format a Letter MLA
Formatting a letter in MLA style is essential for academic and professional communication. MLA (Modern Language Association) formatting is commonly used in the humanities, particularly in English and foreign language departments. This article will guide you through the process of formatting a letter in MLA style, ensuring that your correspondence is professional and meets the required standards.
1. Letter Format
The basic structure of an MLA letter includes the following elements:
– Header: Include your name, your contact information, the date, and the recipient’s name and address. The header should be placed in the upper left corner of the page, with the first line starting one inch from the top of the page.
– Salutation: Begin the letter with a formal salutation, such as “Dear [Recipient’s Name],” or “To Whom It May Concern.”
– Body: The body of the letter should be divided into paragraphs, with each paragraph addressing a specific point. Keep your sentences clear and concise, and avoid using jargon or technical terms that the recipient may not understand.
– Conclusion: Conclude the letter with a polite closing, such as “Sincerely,” “Best regards,” or “Thank you.”
– Signature: Sign the letter at the bottom, followed by your printed name.
2. Font and Margins
– Font: Use a readable font, such as Times New Roman, in 12-point size.
– Margins: Set the margins to one inch on all sides of the page.
3. Line Spacing and Indentation
– Line spacing: Double-space the entire letter, including the header, body, and closing.
– Indentation: Indent the first line of each paragraph one half-inch from the left margin. You can use the Tab key to achieve this indentation.
4. Page Numbering
– Place the page number in the upper right corner of the page, one half-inch from the top. Use a simple Arabic numeral, such as “1,” “2,” etc.
5. Formatting the Header
The header should include the following information:
– Your Name: Write your full name, including any middle initial.
– Your Contact Information: Include your phone number, email address, and physical address.
– Date: Write the current date in the format of “Month Day, Year,” such as “April 1, 2023.”
– Recipient’s Name and Address: Write the recipient’s full name and address, including the street address, city, state, and ZIP code.
6. Additional Tips
– Proofread your letter carefully to ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors.
– Use a professional tone throughout the letter, and avoid using slang or informal language.
– Keep the letter concise and focused on the purpose of your communication.
By following these guidelines, you can format a letter in MLA style effectively and ensure that your correspondence is professional and meets the required standards.
