11 Research Report

Last time, we discussed the literature review. As you all know, a literature review is an essential content of a research
report. The research report is inevitable when you are in academes. It is a significant requirement many students avoid.

WHAT IS A RESEARCH REPORT?

According to Barrot (2016), a research report is a paper that presents interpretations and analyses of a phenomenon
based on experiments and previous information. It is done through tedious work through formal investigation and
scientific inquiry. (Barrot, 2016)

Research involves a laborious and intricate process because it must be accurate, objective, and systematic. It needs
rigorous planning and studying.

As a scientific interpretation of facts and all data are gathered, research seeks to establish the truth about the study
conducted. (Conception, Nebria, Girado, Mina, & Pescayo, 2016)

Research helps in knowing things that are unknown following a careful process. It provides answers to questions we
are curious about by conducting a study following all necessary procedures.

Tiburcio et al. (2009), as cited by Gabelo et al. (2016), research has six characteristics:

1. It is a gathered knowledge from primary and secondary sources. It is not fabricated nor a restatement.

2. It is a systematic and accurate investigation following the needed procedure.

3. Careful planning must be observed from the collection of data as to the recording and analysis.

4. It is logical and objective. The researcher has to eliminate personal feelings and preferences.

5. It is patiently done. The researcher exerts effort to come up with logical information and sound conclusion.

6. It is carefully done. It follows necessary procedures, offers conclusions and recommendations, and makes proper
documentation.

(Conception, Nebria, Girado, Mina, & Pescayo, 2016)

Moreover, a research report should be done thoughtfully and carefully, for it signifies credibility and trustworthiness
to one’s author.

WHAT ARE THE TYPES OF RESEARCH?

Bhasin (2019) enumerated types of research as follows:

1. Basic Research. It is sometimes called pure research. Its purpose is to increase or gain knowledge rather than to
create or invent something.

2. Applied Research. It is the opposite of Basic Research. Its purpose is to solve a problem rather than merely
gaining knowledge. The focus of this research is on the analysis in solving real-life or social life problems.

3. Quantitative Research. It is used to investigate measurable qualities and compare them from past records. It
uses mathematical models, theories, or data quantified or compared on a numeric scale.

4. Qualitative Research. In contrast to quantitative research, this type describes qualities or characteristics. It
focuses on understanding a research query as a humanistic or idealistic approach. Since this is non-numeric data,
it is commonly used to understand people's beliefs, experiences, attitudes, behavior, and interactions. (Bhasin,
2019)
 To simplify, Basic Research seeks explanations about fundamental truths and principles, while Applied Research
seeks answers to solve a problem. Quantitative Research deals with numbers and statistics, while Qualitative Research is
about words and meanings.

PARTS OF A RESEARCH.

Barrot (2016) enumerated the essential parts of research as follows:

1. Title Page. It contains an informative title and describes the paper's content, the name of the author/s,
addresses and affiliations, and date of submission.

2. Abstract. It contains a summary of the research findings and conclusions. Commonly, it is two to four paragraphs
in length.

3. Introduction. An introduction has three distinct parts, starting with (1) a general presentation of the research
problem. (2) layout exactly what you are trying to achieve with this particular research project, and (3) state your
position. (Shuttleworth, n.d.)

4. Literature Review. It contains a summary of all sources directly related to your study.

5. Methodology. It describes how the experiments or tests in the research were conducted. It presents the
participants, the instruments used, the data gathering procedure, and data analysis.

6. Results. - This is where you indicate what you found in your research. You give the results of your research but
do not interpret them. (University of Adelaide, 2014)

7. Discussion. This is where you discuss your results' relevance and how your findings fit with other research in the
area. It will relate to your literature review and your introductory thesis statement. (University of Adelaide, 2014)

8. Conclusion. It is the restatement of the significant findings, limitations of the study, recommendations, and
implications.

9. References. It includes all the different sources you used in your study. It might be academic books, published
journals, and other online sources.

STEPS IN WRITING A RESEARCH REPORT.

1. Select and narrow down the topic.

2. Conduct preliminary research by gathering the initial references.

3. Create your thesis statement and research questions.

4. Make an outline. It best helps you to organize and systematized the content of your study.

5. Prepare your instruments. It might be a questionnaire, interview, survey, and many more.

6. Implement the instrument to your chose participants and gather the data.

7. Analyze and interpret.

8. Write the methodology and the results of your study.

12 Project Proposal
What is a project proposal?
 A project proposal is a persuasive report that aims to conduct a particular action or project to solve a specific
problem. As its name suggests, it proposes a solution through a project as the course of action.

In business, a project proposal is a detailed action plan on accomplishing the desired goals and objectives and
getting sponsorship from business entities and organizations.

Why are project proposals important?

Project proposals explain your project in detail and try to convince stakeholders why your project should be
executed and supported. Project proposals can be used for these purposes:

 To secure funding

 To win new clients

 To get existing clients to sign a extend their contracts

 To convince manager or employer to allocate resources to a new initiative

What are the main types of project proposals?

According to Barrot (2016), there are four project proposal types. Each project proposal type varies according to the
problem's context and the receiver and sender of the proposal.

1. Solicited Internal is used when a particular organization has identified a problem and the decision has been
made to solve it. Thus, it addresses the said request. The target reader is within the organization.

2. Unsolicited Internal is used when the organization has not yet identified an existing problem and, therefore, no
decision to solve the problem has been made yet. The target reader is within the organization. This is also known
as a self-initiated proposal.

3. Solicited External is almost similar to solicited internal. The only difference is that the target reader is not within
the organization.

4. Unsolicited External is almost similar to unsolicited internal. The only difference is that the target reader is not
within the organization.

Parts of a Project Proposal (Rajan, 2016)

1. Title. It must be short and meaningful so you can catch your potential clients’ or sponsors’ attention.

2. Executive Summary. This section aims to catch your recipient's attention and encourage them to read on. It should
include details about: the problem your project solves, how your project solves the problem, and your project's intended
impact on the client and the people. Its primary components include the problem statement, project objectives,
estimated total project cost, and key project activities.

3. Introduction of the Organization. It includes interesting details about the uniqueness of your organization, among
others. You must also include your name, geographical area, strengths, staff, successful projects and achievements, and
other activities.

4. Background of the Project. It states the identified problem and the need for intervention or solution. It includes a
brief description of the people where the project is situated and their problems.

5. Project Description. It includes the specific goals and objectives of the project. It also states the target group,
duration of the project, expected outcomes, specific and systematic activities, and personnel and staff needed.

6. Budget. It states the expected income and expenses of the said project.

7. Sustainability of the Project. It states the continuity of the project's mission or holistic outcome even in the future.
8. Monitoring and Evaluation. It states how the project will be monitored and the assigned personnel.

9. Reporting. It states the schedule or frequency of reporting and the project's progress.

For concrete examples of project proposals, Figure 1 shows a sample formal proposal, while Figure 2 shows an
informal proposal and Figure 3 shows a short proposal with attachment adopted from Wilson (2013). For a more detailed
project proposal, refer to Figure 4 taken from Wilson and Wauson (2010).

Figure 1. Sample formal proposal

Source: Wilson, J. (2013, August 16). Example Guru Project Proposals. Guru. https://www.guru.com/blog/example-guru-
job-quote/.

Figure 2. Sample of an informal proposal

Source: Wilson, J. (2013, August 16). Example Guru Project Proposals. Guru. https://www.guru.com/blog/example-guru-
job-quote/.

Figure 3. Sample of a short proposal with attachment

Source: Wilson, J. (2013, August 16). Example Guru Project Proposals. Guru. https://www.guru.com/blog/example-guru-
job-quote/.

Figure 4. Sample Proposal for Video Production Services

Source: Wilson, K., & Wauson, J. (2010). Sample Business

Documents: Proposals. In The AMA handbook of
business writing: the ultimate guide to style, grammar,
punctuation, usage, construction and formatting (pp.
541–550). AMACOM.

13 Position Paper
WHAT IS A POSITION PAPER?

A position paper is an argumentative written

work that presents a writer’s stand or viewpoint on a
particular issue (Barrot, 2016). It is a commonly
formal and detailed article to defend one’s position or
show the relation of one’s stance to other positions
(“Position Paper”, n.d.).

Why write a position paper? (Gabelo et al., 2016)

1. It helps organize one’s viewpoint/s on an

issue. It helps you arrange too many ideas and
viewpoints about a particular issue by putting
them into writing through a particular format.
 2. It expresses one’s position and proposes to create solutions to challenging issues. Identifying a particular issue
and presenting viewpoints is the primary role of a position paper. However, some authors present solutions
commonly included in the conclusion part.

3. It requires a demonstration of credibility. Ideas, valid opinions and refuted arguments must always have reliable
sources and references to show authority and credibility.

4. It demands consistency in maintaining position in negotiation. Position paper enables you to read more about
the particular issue you are defending; thus, it helps you be more firm with your beliefs and position.

A good position paper should have valid supporting evidence based on what you have read. As the author of a
position paper, always remember to use basic and comprehensible words to avoid confusion to your reader/s. Hence,
define words that seem to be technical or unfamiliar. Lastly, it would be best if you always addressed counterclaims.

A position paper follows the usual IBC format (Barrot, 2016)

Introduction

 uses a lead or hook to catch readers’ attention.

 introduces the issue and provide a thorough background

 provides a general statement of your position through a thesis statement

Body

 states the main arguments and supplies enough valid proof and pieces of evidence for each argument,

 provides counterarguments against possible weaknesses of your arguments,

 refutes the counterclaims,

 provides reliable evidence

Conclusion

 restates position and main arguments

 suggests a course of action

 explains why your position is better than other position

 ends with a powerful closing statement. It might be a quotation or question to challenge the readers.

When choosing an issue, choose debatable topics. Of course, common knowledge like the sky is blue is not arguable.
It should also be specific, timely and relevant.

GUIDELINES IN WRITING A POSITION PAPER (Barrot, 2016; Gabelo et al., 2016)

1. Make sure to read many sources, commonly factual information, to create a good position paper.

2. Always explain and analyze objectively.

 3. Cite reliable sources to establish authority and credibility

4. Consider your readers’ belief, needs, and interests, as these will be helpful in easily persuading them.

5. Include counterclaims and refute them with valid pieces of evidence.

6. Define technical terms.

7. Always use the active voice in constructing your statements.

8. Always stick to logical argument and ensure no fallacies in your paper.

14 Business Letter
WHAT IS A BUSINESS LETTER?

A business letter is a formal document often sent from one company to another or from a company to its clients,
employees, and stakeholders as a professional correspondence between individuals (Ram, 2021). You can write a
business letter when you want to apply for a job, order material, file a complaint or issue an apology. Other examples
include letters of acknowledgement, appreciation, confirmation, recognition, payment request, etc.

Here are the essential parts of a business letter (Gabelo et al., 2016):

1. Heading. A business letter heading usually contains the name and postal address of the business, its Email address,
Website address, Telephone Number, and Fax Number.

Example:

E-mail: [email protected]

Web-site: www.bankofasia.com

Telephone Number: 010-8846-384

Fax Number: 010-684-345

2. Date. The date is usually written on the right-hand side corner after the heading as the day, month, and year.

Example: 31st July 2020 or July 31, 2020.

3. Reference. The reference indicates the letter number and the department from where the letter is being sent and
the year. It helps for future reference. This reference number is written on the left-hand corner after the heading.

Example: RW/EngDEpt./2020/15.

4. Inside address. The inside address includes the name and full address of the person or the firm to whom the letter is
sent. This is written on the left-hand side of the sheet below the reference number. Letters should be addressed to the
responsible head, e.g. the Secretary, the Principal, the Chairman, the Manager, etc.

Example:

Mr. Arman Japitana Buchalter

Branch Manager

Bank of Asia

Visayas Branch

Iloilo Province
5. Subject. It is a brief statement that indicates the matter to which the letter relates. It attracts the attention of the
receiver immediately and helps him/her know the content of the letter quickly

Example: Subject: Car Insurance Policy

6. Salutation. The salutation is placed below the inside address. It is followed by a comma (,).

Examples:

Sir: (used for official formal correspondence)

Dear Sir: (used for addressing an individual)

Dear Sirs: (used for addressing a firm or company)

7. Body of the letter. The body comes after the salutation. This is the main part of the letter and contains the actual
message of the sender. It is divided into three parts.

A. Opening Part. This is the introductory part of the letter. In this part, attention to the reader should be drawn to the
previous correspondence, if any.

Example: Concerning your letter no. 337 dated 14th July 2020, I would like to draw your attention to the updated
insurance policy.

B. Main Part. This usually contains the subject matter of the letter. It should be precise and written in clear words.

C. Concluding Part: It contains the statement of the sender’s intentions, hopes, and expectations concerning the next
step. Furthermore, the sender should always look forward to getting a positive response.

Examples:

Thanking you

With warm regards

8. Complimentary Close. This is merely a polite way of ending a letter. It should match the salutation.

Examples:

A. Dear Sir/Madam ----------------- Yours faithfully

B. Dear Mr. Buchalter ---------------- Yours sincerely

C. My dear Arman ------------------- Warm Regards

9. Signature. It is written in ink or as an e-signature, immediately below the complimentary close. As much as possible,
the signature should be legible. The name of the writer should be typed immediately below the signature. The
designation is given below the typed name. If without a letterhead, the name of the company could be included below
the designation of the writer.

Example:

Yours faithfully,

(signature)

JOVELYN REYES

Partner
10. Enclosures. This is required when documents like cheque, draft, bills, receipts, lists, invoices, etc., are attached with
the letter. These enclosures are listed one after the other in serial numbers.

Examples: Encl: (i) The list of new car insurance policy.

Copy Circulation. This is required when copies of the letter are also sent to persons apart of the addressee. It is denoted
as C.C.

Example: C.C. The Chairman, Bank of Asia

11. Post Script. This is added when the writer wants to add something not included in the body of the letter. It is
expressed as P.S.

Example: P.S. - in our offer, we provide a two and a half years’ warranty.

THREE FORMATS OF A BUSINESS LETTER (Lexico, 2020):

1. Full Block – A Full Block format features all elements of the letter aligned to the left margin of the page. It has a neat
and simple appearance. A double line space separates paragraphs.
Source: (Lexico, 2020)

2. Modified Block – A Modified Block differs from block style in that the date, sign off, and signature lines begin at the
center point of the page line. The beginning of each paragraph is indented five spaces, along with the subject line, if
used. Depending on the letter's length, paragraphs may be separated by a single or double line space.

Source: (Lexico, 2020)

3. Semi Block – A Semi Block is similar to the Block but has a more informal appearance. All elements are left-aligned,
except for the beginning of each paragraph, which is indented five spaces. A double line space separates paragraphs.
Source: (Lexico, 2020)

GUIDELINES IN WRITING BUSINESS LETTER (Barrot, 2016)

1. Use correct format, punctuation, spelling, and grammar.

2. Present your ideas logically and clearly using appropriate language for the target readers.

3. Use active voice and apply a direct but tactful tone.

4. Focus on the reader by using the ‘you’ approach – like you are talking to them.

5. Specify the name of the receiver. If not possible, use a generic title (e.g. Dear Sales Director).

6. Leave three to five blank lines for a signature before typing your name.

7. Never use plain numerals for dates (07/31/2020) as it may create confusion. Use July 31st, 2020 or July 31, 2020.

16 Memo & Electronic Mail

WHAT IS A MEMO?

A memorandum or a memo comes from the Latin term memorare, which means “to remember”, and its main
function is to inform or persuade people within an organization (Barrot, 2016). It follows an inverted pyramid structure
which means the most important information comes first.
PARTS OF A MEMO (Barrot, 2016)

1. Letterhead. It contains the name of the company, address, and contact numbers.

2. Date line. It serves as a chronological record for reference purposes.

3. To line. It indicates the name and title of the receiver.

4. Attention line. It is used when the writer wishes to address the whole company but wants to bring it to the attention
of a particular person in the company.

Two formats:

a. Attention Dr. Jovelyn Reyes

b. Attention: Dr. Jovelyn Reyes

5. From line. It indicates the name of the sender. The sender should affix his initials on the right side of his/her name
for verification purposes.

6. Subject line. Announces the main content or topic of a memo. The Subject is more preferred than the old term Re.

7. Body. It contains the message of the memo.

a. Paragraphs are single-spaced internally but double-spaced to separate paragraphs. If the memo is very short, the
body can be double spaced and triple spaced to separate paragraphs.

b. Paragraphs in the memo are not indented.

c. When discussing many sub-topics, a topic heading may be used so that the reader can quickly locate information.
Never indent the first line of each paragraph.

d. If the memo exceeds one page, begin the following page with the recipient’s name, date, and page number, which
are placed three lines from the top of the page.

Example: Mr. Roxas, July 31, 2020, page 3.

8. Identification initials. Indicates the typist’s initials if the sender is not the one who personally typed the document.

9. Enclosure notation. These are the attachments to the memo.

Format Examples:

a. Enclosure (2)

b. Enclosure
c. enc. / encl.

10. Copy notation. It indicates the name of the secondary recipients of the letter. It is indicated by cc: which means
carbon copy or courtesy copies.

BASIC MEMO FORMAT

FIVE TYPES OF MEMO (Barrot, 2016)

1. Instruction Memo. This provides the information needed by the readers to accurately perform direction (e.g.
employees’ annual check-up at the company clinic).

2. Request Memo. This asks readers to provide certain information or take specific actions (e.g. someone requests a
fund for a seminar).

3. Announcement Memo. This provides information about an event, person, or thing (e.g. announcement of the arrival
of a new employee).

4. Transmittal Memo. This serves as a cover note for a more formal or lengthy document (e.g. employee transmitting an
annual report to the board members).

5. Authorization Memo. It gives permission (e.g. an employee is allowed to change his/her schedule for personal
reasons).

GUIDELINES IN WRITING A MEMO (Barrot, 2016)

1. Use the correct format and standard use of language.

2. Use a bullet or numbered list to enumerate information.

3. Use a positive tone and concise words, as well as active verbs.

4. Use headings to highlight topics.

5. Check for and remove any grammatical and typographical errors.

6. Sign beside your typed name (sender).

7. Flush left the To, From, Date, and Subject Lines

8. Conclude the memo by saying Thank you or a directive action (e.g. for your compliance, for your immediate action,
etc.).

9. Never use plain numerals for the date (07/31/2020). Instead, use 31st July 2020 or July 31, 2020.

WHAT IS AN ELECTRONIC MAIL?

An electronic mail or email is used to send messages, directives, transmittals, documentations, confirmations,
explanation of a procedure, recommendations, status reports, and inquires (Barrot, 2016). When composing an email, it
is essential to use good netiquette or internet etiquette by including a subject that summarizes the email topic, the name
of the recipient at the beginning of the message and the sender’s name or signature at the end (Sharpened Productions,
2020). Additionally, the company’s name and the sender’s title can be included in the signature.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Communicating through Email (Barrot, 2016):

1. It reaches the target readers fast.

2. Confirmation of acceptance is easy.

3. It is cheaper and easy to use.

4. It is convenient because the original messages can be attached via thread.

5. It is environmental-friendly because it requires no paper.

6. It has an automated email feature that notifies the sender if the receiver cannot access her email.

7. An email may carry a virus.

8. Not all official documents can be sent via email due to their nature.

9. An email can be used as a tool for scamming.

10. Sending an email is prone to technical glitches and is dependent on an internet connection.

GUIDELINES IN WRITING AN EMAIL (Barrot, 2016):

1. Reflect if sending an email is the best mode of correspondence than a face-to-face meeting, phone call, or memo.

2. Connect your subject line to your reader’s needs and interests.

3. Do not change the subject line when you reply to an email.

4. Make the subject line short and simple but also specific.

5. The To line should only contain the names of the primary readers. Secondary readers must be placed in the CC line.

6. Be accurate in typing the email address of the recipient.

7. Keep the message brief and straightforward.

8. Never publish an email without the written consent of the sender.

9. State your business in the first sentence of the text.

10. Store both your sent and received messages in folders using descriptive names (e.g. training, directive, minutes,
etc.).

11. Use a standard memo format. Never capitalize all the letters of your text.

12. If the message is essential, try composing it first using a word processor.
13. Be professional when writing one. Be careful in using emoticon or jargons.

14. If attaching a file, make the file name meaningful and not use superfinalformat.

15. Make sure your attachments are accurate, and they can be downloaded easily.

17 Resume

WHAT IS A RESUMÉ?

A resume is a self-marketing tool and a personal advertisement that showcases: skills, educational background, work
experiences, accomplishments, and other qualifications related to a job of interest. (Parker and Brown 2012) Its objective
is to help you get a job interview. After reading your resume, the employer will want to know more about you. A good
resume will pique your employer's interest. They will ask you questions such as: how you performed from your past
experiences and how you will contribute to their business or organization.

As this is a personal advertisement of yourself to a potential employer, you must know how to describe yourself
more professionally. Remember that it is your key to show that you are qualified for the job, so make sure to have an
impressive but factual resume.

CONTENTS OF A RESUMÉ

Barrot (2016) enumerated the components of a resume as follows:

1. CONTACT INFORMATION. Includes your name, address, contact number and email address. Take note to have your
permanent address, which can receive mail, and your email address should be appropriate and professional.

INAPPROPRIATE EMAIL ADDRESS APPROPRIATE EMAIL ADDRESS

[email protected] [email protected]

[email protected] [email protected]

Remember not to include information that is less relevant to your credentials, such as your marital status, height,
weight, eye color, etc. Lastly, emphasize your name by writing it in boldface and increased font size.

2. SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATIONS. Your summary should have one to four strong sentences that will emphasize your
accomplishments and experiences. Note to use this if you have at least five years of professional experience and write
this in third person and active voice.

Example: Three years’ successful experience working in academic libraries and over ten years in IT.

3. OBJECTIVE STATEMENT. Your objective statement is optional. It includes your job title, function ad what you can offer
to the company --usually appropriate for fresh graduates.

Example: To obtain a position as an English teacher that will utilize my skills and experiences and use my strong passion
for students’ development.

4. EMPLOYMENT HISTORY. Arrange your work history from the most recent experience to the oldest. Each job
mentioned must include the name of and the employer's address, the inclusive dates (month and year) and a brief job
description. Use present tense for current employment and past tense for former employments.

5. EDUCATION. Arrange your education attainment from oldest to most recent. Write the school's name and address,
years attended or graduated, degree and specialization. Include your GPA and list of academic honours, scholarships, etc.
6. SKILLS. Include transferable skills such as managerial skills, professional qualities, personal qualities or
entrepreneurial skills. Remember to include those related to the job.

7. TRAINING. Include training seminars that are related to your preferred job. Write the name of the title of the training,
organizer, date, and venue.

8. ORGANIZATIONS. Include professional and civic organizations related to your desired job. Write the name of the
organization's title, your position, and inclusive dates.

9. PROFESSIONAL LICENSURE AND CERTIFICATIONS. Include the name of the certification, rating (optional), date issued
and place of issuance.

10. HONORS AND AWARDS. Include your recognized awards and achievements. Write the award or recognition title,
inclusive date, sponsor, or award-giving body.

11. REFERENCES. Include their name, position, company and contact details. You may include your past employers,
professors, and trainers, and avoid including your family members.

Gabel et al. (2016) enumerated things that should not be included or do in a resume:

1. PERSONAL INFORMATION. As mentioned above, it is less relevant to your credentials. Employers nowadays are more
particular with work experience and qualification than personal information.

2. IMAGES AND GRAPHICS. Do not include pictures except for your cover photo. Some recruitment programs do not
work out with resume full of graphic designs and images.

3. FANCY FORMATTING. Use easy-to-read fonts and formats to avoid misreading. Use a 10- to 11-point for main and 12-
or 14-point for highlighted contents.

4. INFORMATION IN TABLES. Use line breaks and simple formatting and avoid using table layout.

TYPES OF RESUMÉ

Source: Resume Genius (2020)

1. CHRONOLOGICAL RESUME. It is known as the most standard resume format. This format lists your work history,
accomplishments, and other qualifications, most recent from the least --usually best used by applicants with a lot of
work experiences from various companies and organizations.

2. FUNCTIONAL RESUME. It is more focused on skills and abilities that show how you could perform well in a particular
job. Thus, it removes the focus on work experience. This format is best for fresh graduates, skilled workers, and minimal
work experiences.

(Resume Genius, 2020)

3. COMBINATION RESUME. It consists of both features of chronological and functional formats. This format best
showcases skills and capabilities plus work experiences. (Resume Genius, 2020)

18 Application for College Admission

WHAT IS COLLEGE ADMISSION APPLICATION LETTER?

The admission letter is as important as other types of business letters because it showcases your interest in a specific
school institution while defining your qualifications at the same time. A college admission application letter presents
your academic qualifications, accomplishments, and reasons for applying for admission. (Barrot, 2016) The applicant or
student must state promote his/herself by telling his/her qualifications—one's achievements and long-term goals and
how to achieve them.

As you may know, the admission process has been challenging, especially to public universities where they only
choose a few but the best students. It is essential to prepare a well-written college application letter that gives you
favour during the competitive selection process.

PARTS OF A COLLEGE ADMISSION APPLICATION LETTER (Barrot, 2016)

1. INTRODUCTION. This states who you are and what you are applying for. It also includes an eye-catching statement
about yourself. It shows that you are genuinely interested in the preferred university.

2. BODY. The body presents your academic qualifications, extracurricular involvement, community engagements, and
personal qualities with specific evidence. It should also state the university's benefits when they accept you. You may
construct separate paragraphs for each idea and make sure to explain how the university will benefit from your
qualifications.

3. CONCLUSION. The conclusion states how interested you are in being part of the institution and looking forward to an
interview. Emphasize your contact information and express hope for a positive response. Do not forget to say “thank
you.”
Source: Sample College Application Letter. (2017, February 28). Retrieved August 01, 2020.

https://www.greatsampleresume.com/letters/application/college-application-letter/

TIPS IN PREPARING AN APPLICATION LETTER (Barrot, 2016)

CONTENT.

1. The application letter must be addressed to a specific person. You must know your letter's specific addressee and
other important information about your preferred university.

2. Present your academic qualifications, extracurricular activities other qualifications. Make sure to include only those
relevant to your chosen course and university.

3. Avoid exaggerated and fictitious information. Be factual and realistic as to why the university is best for you.

4. Do not beg for admission.

5. Your letter should match the mission and vision of the university.

LANGUAGE.

1. Use active voice and action verbs.

2. Always check your letter and avoid grammatical and typographical errors.
3. Avoid jargon and verbosity.

4. Be straightforward.

FORMAT AND MECHANICS.

1. Use letter-sized bond paper with standard margins.

2. Limit your letter to 1 to 2 pages only.

3. Use letterhead, including your name, address, phone number and email address.

4. Avoid fancy fonts and limit them to 10-point to 12-point font size

19 Application for Employment

WHAT IS APPLICATION FOR EMPLOYMENT OR COVER LETTER?

It is a type of business letter which expresses your intention to work in a particular business or organization. (Barrot,
2016) Moreover, it adds focus to your resume. (Gabelo et al., 2016)

The new normal presents a situation where a physical application will no longer be required. Instead, employers ask
to send the resume along with the cover letter through email or hard copies mailed to their companies. Others often
post job hiring details on the Internet.

A cover letter expands the qualifications you have included on your resume and explain why you are the best person
for the said job. (Slack, 2020) It complements your resume and provides specific details and explanations to make the
reader believe that you are a strong match for the said job.

PARTS OF A COVER LETTER (Slack, 2020)

1. Introduction. This states who you are and what you are applying for. It also includes an eye-catching statement about
yourself and shows that you are genuinely interested in the job.

2. Body. The body states your relevant education, skills, work experience and suitability for the job. You should explain
the benefits the employers will gain if they hire you. Do not simply tell these facts.

Example: Instead of telling about all the training seminars that you have attended, you may say, "I have extensive training
in copyediting. You will save both time and money because I will need little training in this area." (Barrot, 2016)

3. Conclusion. This part reiterates your strengths and asks the hiring manager to contact you. A call to action is where
you expect a positive response from the hiring manager or employer. Also, do not forget to express your gratitude at this
part.
Source: Resume Genius (2020)

TIPS IN PREPARING AN APPLICATION LETTER (Barrot, 2016)

CONTENT.

1. A cover letter is not a repetition of your resume, so you have to emphasize concrete examples and explain vividly.

2. Be creative when writing your hook statement or attention-getter. You may use a quotation that applies to the type
of business you are applying for or explain how you learned about the job. Never use bland and generic phrases.

3. Always address your letter to a specific person. If you do not know, you may call the company to ask or conduct
further research.

4. Be factual. Avoid exaggerated and extra information.

5. Focus on what you can do and contribute to the company. Remember, the company is after what you can contribute
to theirs.

6. Do not beg for the job.

7. Your letter should match the job description and requirements of the chosen company.

LANGUAGE.

1. Use active voice and action verbs.

2. Always check your letter and avoid grammatical and typographical errors.
3. Avoid jargon and verbosity.

4. Be straightforward.

FORMAT AND MECHANICS.

1. Use letter-sized bond paper with standard margins.

2. Limit your letter to 1 to 2 pages only.

3. Use letterhead, including your name, address, phone number and email address.

4. Avoid fancy fonts and limit them to 10-point to 12-point font size.

5. Do not forget to sign your application letter.