Business Letter Format

Business Letter is an important part of business correspondence. The format used to write business letter is specific. The way a business letter looks is important as it creates an impression on the reader. The format of the business letter has a lot to do in making an impression on the reader. A simple format of a letter helps in conveying the message clearly to the readers.

Based on the indentation of the paragraphs and alignment, there are four formats used while writing Business letter. The four formats are as follows:

Block: In this type of format, the entire text is aligned to the left side of the paper and the paragraphs are not given an indent.
Semi-block: In this format, the text is left aligned and all the paragraphs in the letter are indented.
Modified block: This format has paragraphs that are not indented. The text is aligned to the left side of the paper. Only the writer's address, date and closing in the letter are indented towards the center or right side of the paper. The indentation is about three inches from left margin.
Modified Semi-block: The said format has paragraphs that are indented. The text is aligned to the left side of the paper. Only the writer's address, date and closing in the letter are indented towards the center or right side of the paper. The indentation is about three inches from left margin.

Out of all the four formats, the Block format is the most commonly used format due to its simple style. The Block Letter Format is as follows:

A Sample Business Letter Format

Letterhead

Writer's Name
Address
Email Address
Phone Number
Date:

Sender's Name
Designation
Address
Email Address
Phone Number

Opening line with a greeting -Dear followed by Mr. /Ms. and full name

Body of the letter - Main idea that has to be conveyed.

Yours Sincerely,
Signature

Type your full name