How to Write a Cover Letter: Structure, Template and Worked Example
Connect real experience with the job in a concise cover letter. Includes a fill-in template, a worked paragraph and an AI editing checklist.
By Resumiq
Published Updated
The short answer
A useful cover letter identifies the role, explains your interest and connects one or two requirements to evidence from your experience. Close politely with a clear next step. Follow employer instructions and check every fact; a letter does not need invented achievements or exaggerated enthusiasm.
When should you send a cover letter?
Send one when asked. If optional, it can explain a career change, relevant project or motivation that the resume does not cover. If additional documents are discouraged, follow that instruction.
Harvard recommends a concise, factual letter tailored to the position, with examples supporting qualifications. Harvard Mignone Center: Impactful resumes and cover letters.
A three-part structure
- Opening: name the role and a truthful reason for interest.
- Evidence: connect important requirements to examples you can explain.
- Closing: express interest in a conversation and thank the reader.
Check the company and role names. Without a verified recipient, Dear Hiring Team is a practical greeting. Do not invent a manager name or company initiative.
A fill-in template
Dear [Hiring Team or verified recipient], I am applying for the [role] position at [company]. I am interested in [specific aspect of the work], which connects with my background in [relevant experience]. In [job, internship or project], I [actual action] using [tool or method]. This is relevant to your need for [requirement]. I also [second supported example, if useful]. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my experience in [area] could support your team. Thank you for considering my application. Sincerely, [Your name]
Worked example: support experience
Our hypothetical applicant answered order-status email in retail. The target role asks for written communication and request records. This example uses only those facts.
In my retail role, I answered customer email about order status and maintained request notes for the store team. This work is relevant to your need for clear written communication and accurate records of customer requests.
The paragraph avoids invented satisfaction scores, ticket volumes and software experience. It adds a connection to the role rather than repeating the resume without context.
Add useful context
- Explain why the experience matters for this position.
- Connect a project with a need from the posting.
- Use genuine motivation based on verified information.
- Remove unrelated background and formal filler.
- Keep the voice natural.
Review an AI draft
Harvard advises reviewing generated suggestions for authenticity. Check names, qualifications, company facts and the evidence used to show fit. Harvard Mignone Center: AI for resumes and cover letters.
- Compare the draft with your source resume and posting.
- Remove achievements or tools you did not provide.
- Verify recipient and company details.
- Read aloud and simplify awkward language.
- Check the attachment or pasted text before sending.
Where Resumiq fits
With Pro or an active Application Pack, each Resumiq resume result includes one matching cover-letter draft at no extra tailoring credit cost. Earlier free results can receive a letter after upgrading, without tailoring the resume again. Paid results, unlocked downloads, and saved letters remain available after paid access ends. Pro is $5/month for 10 tailoring credits each billing month. The $20 one-time Application Pack includes 40 credits to use within 12 months, with no automatic renewal. Review and edit drafts before use. The product cannot determine whether an employer will read a letter or invite you to interview.
Frequently asked questions
How long should a cover letter be?
Follow the instructions and keep it concise. A few focused paragraphs that fit on one page are a practical starting point for a standard letter.
Can I reuse a cover letter?
Use a factual template if helpful, then update the role, company and evidence linked to the posting. Check for leftover names before sending.
Can I use AI to write it?
AI can suggest wording. Review every fact and edit the voice, follow any employer instructions on AI use, and do not submit invented experience.
Sources and editorial notes
- Harvard Mignone Center: Impactful resumes and cover letters
Advice on concise, factual cover letters with relevant evidence.
- Harvard Mignone Center: AI for resumes and cover letters
Guidance on reviewing AI suggestions for accuracy and authenticity.
Sources checked October 3, 2026. Examples and fill-in templates are original illustrations, not real customers or hiring results. Advice reflects Resumiq's practical interpretation and cannot guarantee employer decisions. Read our product methodology and publishing standards.