There are different styles of formats for different types of work. The first example I am going to give is that of a letter. When writing a letter, the most common format style used is the block style format. When writing professional letters, such as letters of recommendation, cover letters, and thank you letters, this format is encouraged. The block style is used by keeping everything in the letter in alignment aside from the letterhead which should be along the left margin. Block style is also single spaced, with a double space in between paragraphs. I have provided an example of block style format in the picture below.
This picture is provided by www.career-tools-hq.com/cover-letter-format.html
Another format style that is often used in the workforce is modified block style. This style is slightly less formal, in the sense that the alignments are used differently in comparison to block style. The return address, closing phrase, and signature are aligned to the right where as all other text is aligned to the left. I have provided an example of modified block style in the picture below.
This picture was provided by jimcosta.org
Another format that is important to know is one that is used when writing essays. Although it is easy to get creative when composing an essay, it is best to follow the following structure: Be sure to include the introductory paragraph at the beginning of your essay. This paragraph describes what you will be discussing in your paper, along with a strong thesis to state your claim. The next few paragraphs should be your body paragraphs. Each of these include supporting details that express your claim. At the very end should be your concluding paragraph. This should wrap up your work, restating what has been said in the essay with a short and strong summarization. Essays are normally double spaced, and indented at the beginning of each paragraph. As the paper itself will vary in length, each paragraph should be no less than 6 to 8 sentences. I have provided an example of the essay style format in the picture below.
This picture was provided by wordsworth2.net/writing/miasmal.htm
Those are just 3 of the many different types of formats used in the professional world. It is important to use proper format so that your work gives a nice sleek and businesslike appearance to whomever you may be submitting it to. Appearance may not be everything, but it is the first thing, and you never get a second chance to make a first impression.
Below is a short video on how to compose a document using the APA style format. Enjoy!
I don’t know if you realized, but you posted a blank post. I hope you are going to fix it on time. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteOverall, I don't feel that you put a lot of effort into this blog.
ReplyDeleteMy computer is going psycho and I can't post my blog. 5 minutes left... fml.
ReplyDeleteP.S- Thanks for the sarcasm. I really appreciate it.
ReplyDeleteCarly,
ReplyDeleteI think all of us have been in the same position you found yourself. Technology is both, I believe, a blessing and a curse.
Due to the fact that you were unable to post a blog there is not much to be able to comment on, however, I will say that including a video was good because it was at least something. The video itself was explanatory,however, with no explanation about the video and why you chose it, it appeared as random. I understand your computer poised problems, and I'm not exactly sure what all was occurring, I just hope that between you and the professor something will be able to be worked out.
Alright, so this is similar to the blog that I tried to post yesterday. I re did it just to show you that I was active in working on a blog and I want to fulfil my part in this team as well. The professor is aware of my situation, and I have emailed her a copy of my final draft of the blog. I will only be receiving partial credit since it is late, however, I wanted to post it on the site just to receive feedback and such. Thank you for understanding and the encouragement!
ReplyDeleteCarly,
ReplyDeleteI am sorry for not having posted a comment sooner. I read your post and I am so glad that you were able to still post a blog on this topic whose importance, I think, is often overlooked by writers. I think you did a great job.
The first paragraph or your introduction to the topic,I thought, was good. What you said about formatting being the first thing a reader sees is true and even though people dont't like to admit it, first impressions count for a lot. It can influence a person's choice to want to read the document or not. Especially when dealing with the work place environment. So your right that content is not everything.
I also thought that by including a list of types of documents that tend to use block formatting was helpful and a good choice to include. I feel that you really hit on the main important aspects, and you did not just say how to format each style you chose to discuss, but you also included key things a writer needs to know and remember. Such things as a thesis sentence within the first, or introduction, paragraph, and the length each paragraph should be.
I really appreciate the fact that you took the time to make sure to include a post and I thought you did a great job. It was not only easy to read and understand, but I got a feeling of personality especially in your last sentence where you said, "[a]ppearance may not be everything, but it is the first thing, and you never get a second chance to make a first impression", I thought it was a great line and so very true.