Formatting For Online & Email Applications 🎯
On This Page:
- Plain Text Format vs. Rich Text Format
- Choose a File Extension
- Set Up Email Message as Plain Text in Microsoft Outlook
- Plain Text Email Setup
Plain Text Format vs. Rich Text Format
Plain text is a file type (.txt) and email format that does not preserve any formatting. It is readable across email platforms due to its simplicity. Rich text format is both a file type (.rtf) and email format that preserves formatting you implement. There are additional file types in which your formatting will also carry over. Rich text is readable across most email and word processing platforms (Word, Google Docs, etc.). The type of file format you choose can depend on your method of application.
Plain Text Format Document Rich Text Format Document
Choose A File Extension
For online job applications or attaching documents to an email application - be sure to save as one of the green file types highlighted on this page.
For copying/pasting documents into an email application, read on below.
If you are applying for a job via email, cover letters and resumes that are pasted in the body of an email should be in plain text format. This will help ensure a healthy transmission of your information in an easy to read manner. Make sure to review what is pasted so you can clean up where necessary. See the screenshot below for how to choose plain text format for email.
Set Up Email Message as Plain Text in Microsoft Outlook
- Click the Format Text tab at the top of the message
- In the Format section, click "Plain Text"
Plain Text Format Email Rich Text Format Email