What should a sample cover letter say?

An exemplary cover letter states the position for which a given applicant is applying, outlines the applicant's overarching qualifications for the position, and indicates additional abilities that would serve the applicant well in the job. An applicant's cover letter is most effective if aligned well with her resume.

Commonly, a cover letter comprises multiple parts. Depending of the age and experience of an applicant, a cover letter may include one or more paragraphs related to educational background, professional history and extraneous, yet pertinent, skills. Most often, cover letters conclude with the applicant thanking the reader and providing times of availability and contact information.