The honest target: 200-300 words. Three short paragraphs. One page maximum.
Why this range:
- Recruiters skim. A 500-word letter gets the same attention as a 200-word one — and the 200-word one is more likely to be fully read.
- Tight writing demonstrates the skill. A clear 200-word letter shows you can communicate. A bloated 500-word one shows you can't edit.
- One page is the standard format. Anything more triggers "this person can't be concise."
What fits in 200-300 words
Three paragraphs:
- Opener (50-80 words) — who you are, what you're applying to, one specific reason.
- Body (100-150 words) — one or two specific reasons you're a fit.
- Close (40-70 words) — reaffirm interest, ask for next step.
What pushes you over 300
- Restating your resume. They have it.
- Generic flattery. "Your innovative culture..." cut.
- Multiple paragraphs of your background. One specific thing > a complete history.
- Long-winded openings. "I am writing to express my interest in the position you have advertised on your website..." → "I'm applying for [Role]."
When 200-300 isn't enough
- Career pivots where the resume needs explanation.
- Senior / executive roles where the bar is higher.
- Specialized technical roles where context matters.
Even then, cap it at 400-450. One page is the absolute ceiling.
The bigger pattern
The cover letter is a tool, not a ritual. A tight, specific 200-word letter beats a meandering 500-word one every time.
Sorce auto-generates tailored cover letters per application — in the right length, structured well, using the JD as input. 40 free swipes a day, AI agent applies.
For more: how to make a cover letter, how to end a cover letter, is a cover letter necessary.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Is 500 words too long for a cover letter?
- Yes. Recruiters skim — 500 words is too much for the attention they'll give it. 200-300 is the sweet spot.
- Can a cover letter be too short?
- Below 100 words feels under-baked. The 200-300 range is where you can make a real argument without padding.
- Should a cover letter fill a whole page?
- No. Half to two-thirds of a page is fine. Don't pad to fill space.
- Should I use bullet points in a cover letter?
- Generally no — cover letters read as prose. Bullets work in rare cases (stating 3 specific qualifications) but use sparingly.