Is Letter Writing a Lost Art?

We live in an age full of technology. Much of the communication we do is either online, or on a cellular device. Some people think that writing letters is a lost art, but it is actually still often used in the business world. There are three main ways to format business letters. One can use the full-block format, the modified-block format, or the simplified format. It is important to be able to recognize when each of these formats should be used.

The full-block format is probably the most well-known and classic format. In this format you use one-inch margins and have single space text. You leave multiple spaces between paragraphs and letter parts. The letter should be centered vertically on the page and the name, date, and pages number should be included on each page.


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The modified-block format is similar to the full-block format. Differences include moving the date, complimentary close, and sender's name close to the center of the pages. One may also indent the body paragraphs.


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The simplified format is another variation of the full-block. One may want to use this format when writing to a group or committee, or when you are unsure of a recipients gender. In this format one omits the salutation and instead adds a subject line. Instead of including a complimentary close, simply capitalize your name and title.


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