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Cover Letter Format

A strong cover letter is short, tailored and structured. Here’s the exact format — and a free way to generate one that matches your resume to the job.

Updated August 2026 · By QuickResume · Free · No sign-up

Quick answer

A cover letter has four parts: header → opening hook → body (why you fit) → closing call to action. Keep it to 3–4 short paragraphs on one page, tailored to the specific job.

Cover letter structure

  1. Header — your name, contact, date, and the company/hiring manager.
  2. Opening — the role you’re applying for and a one-line hook on why you’re a strong fit.
  3. Body (1–2 paragraphs) — match your top achievements to the job’s requirements, with specifics and numbers.
  4. Closing — a confident call to action and a thank-you.
Keep it under one page, address a real person if you can, and never just repeat your resume — connect your experience to their needs.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the correct cover letter format?
Four parts on one page: header, an opening that names the role and your fit, a body matching your achievements to the job, and a closing call to action.

How long should a cover letter be?
Three to four short paragraphs — under one page. Recruiters skim, so make every line count.

Should a cover letter repeat my resume?
No — connect your experience to the specific job’s needs and add context your resume can’t, rather than restating bullets.

Can I generate a cover letter free?
Yes — QuickResume’s AI cover letter generator is free to write and download, and matches your resume to the job.

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