For really useful guides and advice visit the National Careers Service and find out how to make the most of your skills and experiences.
A good covering letter will make the employer sit up and take notice so make sure it's not an afterthought.
Follow these guides to writing a great covering letter:
General points: the purpose of a covering letter
The start: grab the employer's attention
The middle: you're the best person for the job
Signing off: round off your covering letter
Need more help?
Try these tips and guides from across the web:
Sample cover letter
Sample email cover letter
Expert tips
Three examples of covering letters
The worst cover letter in the world
Tricky application form?
You'll find lots of advice on the the National Careers Service website, including:
Advice on personal statements
Application form FAQs