English 421Y: Technical Writing Online

1.) Does the letter include all the necessary components (return address, header, salutation, introductory paragraph, body paragraphs, and conclusion)? If not, what’s missing?

Yup, all of this is included. No changes needed here.

2.) Does the author use block format (all text flush with the left margin)?

The text is flush with the left margin, but I'd recommend reducing the line spacing to reduce the letter's overall length.

3.) Does the style of the letter suit the occasion? Is it too informal, formal, or generic? Explain.

Your style is somewhat generic. I'd recommend taking the instructors advice and at least using your header from your resume.

4.) Does the author take the right tone? (E.g., come off as enthusiastic without gushing? Highly qualified without bragging?) Explain.

Your tone is professional but casual. Improvements here could be made through changing some wording around to make things more concise. This will also reduce the length of the cover letter.

5.) Are there any spelling or mechanical errors? If so, identify them.

Spelling and grammar are both perfect as far as I can tell.

1.) Does the letter speak directly and specifically to the job ad, using keywords to organize the discussion of the author's qualifications? Even if it does, what could be done better?

This question addresses what you could do to improve your cover letter the most. You certainly show off your knowledge on the subject areas your "key words" apply, however you could better organize your paper if you take the instructors advice and use key words to structure your paragraphs.

2.) Does the author mention specific reasons why he or she has applied for the position? Explain.

Most paragraphs in your cover letter give reasoning as to why you've applied to the position. My advice would be to consolidate this information in the introductory paragraph.

3.) Does the author identify specific skills using terminology that other experienced people would recognize?

Your cover letter does a great job of talking about specific skills you've learned and the terminology associated with it. Others in your field would be able to recognize this from the letter.

4.) Does the introductory paragraph identify the position applied for, its source, and then the major reason(s) why the author is well-suited to it?

You mention the position itself and a few major reasons why your well-suited for it, however you didn't identify where you found the job ad (its source).

5.) Does the conclusion indicate how the author can be contacted for further discussion or an interview? Does the letter end on a high note? Explain.

Your conclusion does not reiterate your contact information, but does do a good job of "ending on a high note"

6.) What is the most important revision the author should make? Explain.

I believe the most important revisions you can make are reorganizing your paragraphs based on skills and key words from the ad itself, and to make the letter itself fit on one page.

1.) Do I provide sufficient detail in regard to my academic and professional careers?

You might have gone overkill in this department.

2.) I've elected to use a different header format than was suggested by this weeks readings, which was to use the same from the resume. Is the format that I've chosen still effective and professional?

This header makes your cover letter seem generic and boring. I'd really recommend using the instructors suggestion and copy your header from your resume. This makes your cover letter and resume flow together as a "package" thats designed to sell you.

Form and Style

1.Its all here, just need some space between the salutation and your name so you can sign your name.
2. Everything is left justified, all good.
3. Yes, shows experience and knowledge without being too formal. Letter does look a little plain however.
4. Comes off as qualified but is a little wordy. Could be written in a more clear and concise form.
5. No spelling/mechanical errors as far as I can see.

Content/Rhetorical Context

1. Yes, industry terms are used and clearly outlined. You clearly show your qualifications and experience but I still think it could be done in less words. Maybe try and pick out a few specifics that really fit the ad and used those, in an effort to cut down on length.
2. Yes, you passion for learning and excelling in the world of application design. Outlines success in academics and work experience.
3. Yes, technical industry terms are used to show understanding and effective communication with people in industry.
4. There is no mention of where the job ad was found but it does identify the position being applied for. Clearly states that you have experience in this field and you want to apply it.
5. No contact information given. Last paragraph rounds out the cover letter nicely. I agree with not putting contact information in the last paragraph, but it might be wise for grading purposes.
6. Reduce length. Your cover letter clearly explains your qualifications and experience but it is too long in my opinion. I think you could reduce the length to one page by condensing your experience and knowledge. The content in the letter is great, just a little too long.

1-Yes, there is plenty of detail; just think it could be condensed.
2- I would use the header from your resume. This gives you a clean, consistent style.