210 / Types of Writing
ANALYSIS of THE SAMPLE PERSoNAL bUSINESS
LETTER
The personal business letter follows the standard format (modified-block style). Note
that the left margin is flush except for the centered letterhead, heading, closing, and
signature. Compare this with the following two letters that illustrate the block and
the modified-block with indented paragraphs.
In addition, note these characteristics:
- The six parts of the letter are evident: heading, inside address, salutation, body,
closing, and signature. - An enclosure notation shows that the withdrawal/deposit slip is enclosed.
- The letterhead and inside address use the standard two-letter abbreviations for
states. Follow the same form on the envelope. - A colon follows the salutation.
- The two body paragraphs discuss a single idea each. Each is concise.
- The final paragraph represents a good courtesy paragraph.
- The closing is appropriate and followed by a comma.