Letters of Recommendation Martha Montello, Ph.D. Director, Writing Consult Center

Step One: Are you the right person to write the letter? Must be 1) candid and 2) knowledgeable

Step Two: Get information About who will be receiving the letter. Will help determine what areas to focus on. About you’re the subject of your letter. Do you need more information?

Opening Body Conclusion Suggested format Opening Body Conclusion

Opening Your qualifications: Your professional position, how you know the applicant, length of your relationship, & other pertinent info that builds your credibility. Overview: Your general impressions of the applicant.

Body Provide specific information about the candidate: Personal characteristics Special abilities: E.g. problem solving & teamwork. Specific strengths or experiences: E.g. strong background in research.

Body Cover one candidate quality in each paragraph. Use specific examples. May be a short narrative. Generalized praise is wasted, or worse. Keep the Body to 2-3 paragraphs.

Conclusion Briefly encapsulate previous points. Clearly state the degree to which you recommend the candidate. End with strength without overdoing it. Encourage the reader to contact you for additional information.

Letters of Recommendation Guidelines Be specific. Don’t just praise in generalities. Differentiate. Say how he/she is unlike other people. Cite specific strengths. Compare. When writing to someone who shares context with you, name names.

Letters of Recommendation Guidelines Be plausible. Don’t be too brief. Proofread!!!