The debate of whether or not cover letters are relevant has been a topic of discussion for years. Can you go without or are they necessary? A recent study by Zip Recruiter indicates that 50% of hiring managers require a cover letter, and that of those, two thirds of them reject an applicant because of something included in the cover letter.

Best practice is to have a solid cover letter. That being said, what makes for an acceptable cover letter? What is the purpose of a cover letter? What should you include and exclude? These are all valid questions that have been answered differently.

Here are 3 myths recently covered by AOL about cover letters that you should be aware of for future cover letters.

  1. Keep it short.
  2. Use formal language.
  3. Explain what experience you have that proves you can do the job.

Hiring managers don’t believe all they read on a resume anymore. According to a study by Hire Right, 80% are all resume are misleading. A longer resume is a great way to show your personality on paper. Also, you should write your cover letter in the same language that you speak in to avoid coming across too formal. Your cover letter should be customized to the company and position you are applying to and explain how you understand the importance of the role to the company. This shows you have an understanding of what the company does and how you’d be a perfect fit.

You should focus on high points from your resume, but keep them brief. When writing about your understanding of the company, tie it in to your experiences and skills through an example. If you remember to stick to the facts and make it about them you’ll be on the right path to writing an effective cover letter.