136 / PART TWO: ENGLISH IN ACTION If your letter is typed, do not indent. Use single spacing and leave a double space under each paragraph to separate it from the next one. This is called blocking .D o not justify (align) the right-hand margin. The ending, ‘Yours sincerely’ or whatever you choose, is placed against the left ‘margin’ and you will, of course, sign your name underneath it. You may type your name underneath your signature if your letter has been typed. Do not print your name underneath a handwritten letter. The same rules apply as in a personal letter but this one will, if possible, be typed and there are other rules to observe (see Figure 16). Opposite your own address, put the reference number of the company to whom you are writing – if you have one. There should be one if you have already been corresponding with the firm. Leave a line underneath the date and against the left-hand ‘margin’ write the name of the person to whom you are writing and underneath that, put his or her position. Then write the address in the usual way. If you know the name, use it. If not, start with ‘Dear Sir’ or ‘Dear Madam’. It is better not to use ‘Dear Sir or Madam’ as it suggests you have not done your homework. Your letter stands a better chance of reaching the right person if it is addressed personally. Make a phone call to the company to WRITING A FORMAL LETTER Blocking your letter