How to Write an Application Letter

Writing a letter is a common practice if you wish to make a request or ask for a favor. Whether we avail a service or assistance, apply for a job, leave, loan, and admission, we convey the message via a letter. This letter is called an application letter. It is a written request that is drafted to inform the addressee what you expect them to do.

The content of the application letter depends on the type of request made. The tone used in the letter is polite. The main purpose of the letter is focused in the very first paragraph, so that the reader can understand what the letter is about in the first glance.

The main body of the letter will give all the essential facts and information to the concerned authority. If it a job application letter, you have to explain how you will help the organization to develop if they hire you. An application for a leave will mention the reason you need it. Similarly, a loan application must display for what purpose you are asking the loan and how you have planned to repay it.

Here are some tips that will help you in drafting a letter of application:

The letter has to start with the sender's name and address. This has to be followed with a receiver's name and address. Date has to be inserted in between the two addresses in a standard format (month/date/year). All these things have to be aligned to the left side.
The letter of application has to have a salutation in the form of a word "Dear" followed by the name of addressee. Then you can begin with the main body of the letter.
In the first paragraph, write the purpose of sending the letter along with some references. The letter content depends upon the nature of the content. For example, if you are applying for a job, mention how you learned about the job opportunity and which position you are applying for. If you are seeking an admission, then mention the name of the course you wish to pursue and the reason for choosing the same university. If you are applying for a leave, write the period of leave you wish to take and the reason for the same in a few words.
The second paragraph talks about additional details you wish to convey to the reader. For example, in case of a job application letter, give a brief introduction of your career profile. For admissions application letter, talk about the qualifications previously acquired and your future plans. In case of a leave application letter, give a detailed perspective of the reason for your leave and the importance of the situation. You must also state when you will resume the office.
Be certain that the letter possess strong convincing abilities. Since this is an application letter, it is obvious that you are making a request for something. There is an absolute possibility that several others may have sent similar applications. Hence, equip your letter with many positive points and reasoning to convince the reader as to why you deserve the favor.
The letter should focus on how unique you are and why you should be selected for the interview or admission.
End the letter on a positive note. Close the letter with a phrase like thanking you, yours truly, sincerely yours, etc. The complimentary closure should be followed by your name and signature. If this is an official letter, write your designation. Alternatively, if it is an academic letter, write your class and division.
Print the letter on good quality paper. A good quality paper is super white, crisp, and of A4 size.
Use professional fonts like Times New Roman, Arial, and a font size that is readable
The letter has to be flawless. Proofread the letter thoroughly before dispatching it. Make sure the letter is factually and grammatically accurate.

An application letter must be effective in its presentation. Since the letter aims at fulfilling some purpose, it must be convincing and impressive enough to help you achieve what you desire. Follow the given tips and refer to the links of samples given below to draft a winning application letter.

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