How to Write a Letter of Recommendation

A letter of recommendation (or reference letter) is a document in which the writer evaluates the qualities of another person. A letter of recommendation is written by a person who knows the other person very well, but is not related to the individual. Generally, the writer is a former boss or professor. Regardless of the reason for writing a letter, these letters serve as a useful tool for anyone to use. Read on for more information on how to write a letter of recommendations.

First, write a formal email. Unless the recommendation request is very specific, you should ask the professor about the deadline for writing the letter. Ensure that you talk to the person first to understand their perspective on the matter. Once you have discussed your expectations, send a formal email indicating the deadline for the letter of recommendation and the position you recommend. Make sure to include your full name and contact information so that the person will be able to respond to it properly. Then, reaffirm the reasons for your recommendation.

It is advisable to include a formal-sign off at the end of the letter, but not in the body of the letter. While a formal-sign off is a great way to show your support for the applicant, make sure to personalize the letter. If you're writing for a college or graduate program, for instance, you will want to be more personal. Likewise, you should avoid using generic recommendations. Instead, make sure you know the applicant well.