How Long Should a Cover Letter Be?
Choose the right cover letter length with practical word-count, paragraph, and trimming guidance for applications and email letters.
The practical length targets
A short letter can work when the application asks for a brief note or your referral is strong. A longer letter is justified only when the role needs context that the resume cannot supply.
- Email note: roughly 150–250 words
- Standard cover letter: roughly 250–400 words
- Paragraphs: three to five short blocks
- Page count: one page
Give each paragraph one job
Use the opening to establish fit and interest. Use one or two body paragraphs for relevant evidence. Use the close to restate interest and invite the next conversation.
- Opening: role plus specific connection
- Evidence: action, scope, and result
- Company fit: a real priority, not flattery
- Close: concise and confident
Cut repetition before evidence
Delete generic praise, resume recaps, and throat-clearing phrases first. Keep names, numbers, projects, and decisions that make the case credible.
If every sentence could be sent to any company, the letter needs more specificity—not more length.
Put the advice to work in ResumeTurtle.
Build, tailor, score, and export an ATS-ready resume. Free to start, with no trial trap.
Frequently asked questions
Is a 500-word cover letter too long?+
Usually. If it exceeds one page, look for repeated resume details and generic company praise. Some specialized applications may explicitly request more.
Can a cover letter be 200 words?+
Yes. A concise 200-word letter can be effective when it contains a specific connection and strong evidence.
How many paragraphs should a cover letter have?+
Three to five short paragraphs usually provide enough structure without creating a wall of text.