How to use the cover letter word counter
- Write or paste your cover letter into the editor.
- Watch the progress bar against the 350-word target; use Set goal to enter the exact number in your brief.
- Check the paragraph and sentence counts to confirm the structure is balanced.
- Edit down or build up until you are inside the range, then copy or save the text.
How long should it be?
| Level / type | Typical length | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard cover letter | 250–400 words | One page |
| Executive or academic | 400–600 words | Up to 1.5 pages |
| Email cover note | 100–200 words |
Lengths here are common expectations, not rules. Your brief, supervisor or awarding body sets the real requirement, including what is excluded from the count.
Structure
Open with the role and a one-line reason you are a fit, spend two short paragraphs on evidence of results that match the job description, and close with a clear next step. Three to four paragraphs in total is typical.
Edit for the reader
Recruiters often give a letter seconds, so keep paragraphs short and sentences under 20 words. Use the Readability Checker to see whether your language is plain. Drop phrases like “I am writing to apply”; start with substance. Compare with the longer Personal Statement Word Counter.
Frequently asked questions
How long should a cover letter be?
250 to 400 words, one page.
Do the address blocks count?
Usually you count only the letter body.
Should it be personalised?
Yes. Reference the employer and role specifically.