Business Letter Formats

There are certain rules for a business letter format, although some variations are acceptable (for example, between Europe and North American business letters). Here are some basic guidelines:

• Use A4 (European) or 8.5 x 11 inches (North America) or letterhead
• Use 2.5 cm or 1 inch margins on all four sides
• Use a simple font such as Times New Roman or Arial
• Use 10 to 12 points
• Use a comma after the salutation (Dear Mr Bond)
• Place the card to fit properly the role
• Single space within paragraphs
• Double space between paragraphs
• Double space between the last sentence and closing (Sincerely, Best wishes)
• Leave three to fives spaces for a handwritten signature
• cc: (meaning "copies") comes after the type name (if necessary)
• enc: (meaning "enclosure") comes next (if necessary)
• Fold in three (horizontal) before placing it in the envelope
• Use the ragged right format (not justified on the right side)