Mastering MLA (Modern Language Association) format is crucial for academic and professional writing, especially when it comes to letters. While primarily known for research papers, MLA style also provides guidelines for the proper formatting of correspondence. This ensures clarity, consistency, and a professional presentation of your message. Adhering to MLA standards in your letters demonstrates attention to detail and respect for academic conventions.
Key elements of an MLA-formatted letter include a clear heading with your name, address, and the date, followed by the recipient’s name and address. The body of the letter should be concise and well-organized, using a professional tone. Remember to include a proper salutation (e.g., “Dear Professor Smith,”) and a closing (e.g., “Sincerely,”). Consistent formatting throughout the letter enhances readability and contributes to a polished final product.
Below, you’ll find nine sample letters demonstrating proper MLA formatting. These examples cover various scenarios, from formal inquiries to requests for recommendations. Each sample highlights the essential elements of MLA style, providing a practical guide for composing your own letters. Use these templates as a foundation, adapting them to suit your specific needs and context. Remember to always proofread carefully before submitting your letter.
Following are sample MLA formatted letters:
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Date]
[Recipient’s Name]
[Recipient’s Title]
[Recipient’s Organization]
[Recipient’s Address]
[Recipient’s City, State, Zip Code]
Dear [Recipient’s Name],
I am writing to inquire about [subject of inquiry]. [Body of the letter. Be specific and concise.]
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Jane Doe
123 Main Street
Anytown, CA 91234
October 26, 2023
Dr. John Smith
Professor of English
University of California
456 Academic Ave
Anytown, CA 91234
Dear Dr. Smith,
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to the graduate program in English Literature at Stanford University. The deadline for submission is December 15, 2023.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
Michael Brown
789 Oak Avenue
Somecity, NY 54321
October 26, 2023
Admissions Committee
XYZ College
101 College Road
Somecity, NY 54321
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to express my strong interest in attending XYZ College. I have been consistently impressed by your commitment to [mention a specific program or aspect of the college].
Sincerely,
Michael Brown
Emily Wilson
111 Pine Street
Another Town, TX 78901
October 26, 2023
Mr. Robert Davis
Human Resources Manager
Acme Corporation
222 Business Park Drive
Another Town, TX 78901
Dear Mr. Davis,
I am writing to formally accept the internship offer extended to me on October 20, 2023. I am very excited to join Acme Corporation and contribute to your team.
Sincerely,
Emily Wilson
David Garcia
333 Maple Lane
Springfield, IL 62704
October 26, 2023
Professor Sarah Lee
Department of History
University of Illinois
444 Lincoln Avenue
Springfield, IL 62704
Dear Professor Lee,
I am writing to request an extension on the deadline for the research paper in your History 101 class. I have been experiencing [brief explanation of the reason for the request].
Sincerely,
David Garcia
Ashley Rodriguez
555 Oak Street
Chicago, IL 60601
October 26, 2023
Dr. Thomas Green
University Health Services
666 University Plaza
Chicago, IL 60601
Dear Dr. Green,
I am writing to request a copy of my medical records from my visit on October 15, 2023. I need these records for [reason for needing records].
Sincerely,
Ashley Rodriguez
Christopher Williams
777 Elm Street
Austin, TX 78701
October 26, 2023
Ms. Linda Perez
Landlord
888 Rental Properties
999 Main Street
Austin, TX 78701
Dear Ms. Perez,
This letter is to inform you of my intention to vacate the premises at 777 Elm Street, Austin, TX 78701, on December 1, 2023, as per the terms of our lease agreement.
Sincerely,
Christopher Williams
Brittany Johnson
999 Pine Avenue
Denver, CO 80202
October 26, 2023
Professor Kevin White
Department of Sociology
University of Colorado
1010 University Drive
Denver, CO 80202
Dear Professor White,
I am writing to express my gratitude for your guidance and support during the Fall 2023 semester. I especially appreciated your lectures on [specific topic].
Sincerely,
Brittany Johnson
Kevin Anderson
1212 Oak Street
Seattle, WA 98101
October 26, 2023
Customer Service Department
XYZ Company
1313 Business Boulevard
Seattle, WA 98101
Dear Customer Service Department,
I am writing to complain about [describe the issue clearly and concisely]. I request that you [state your desired resolution].
Sincerely,
Kevin Anderson
Conclusion
Using these MLA letter examples as guides will ensure your correspondence adheres to academic standards. Remember to adapt the samples to your specific situation, maintaining a professional and clear tone. Always proofread for errors before sending. Following these guidelines will help you create effective and properly formatted MLA letters.
