How do I ask for a letter of recommendation?

Hi there! I'm a high school junior, and I know I'll need letters of recommendation for my college applications. How should I go about asking my teachers for these letters? I want to make sure I'm polite and respectful. Thanks for any advice!

Hi! It's great that you're thinking about letters of recommendation ahead of time. I went through this process with my child not too long ago, and I'll be happy to share what we learned. First, choose teachers who know you well and can speak to your strengths, both academically and personally. Preferably, these should be teachers from your junior or senior year in core subjects, as they can provide the most relevant insights about your recent performance.

When asking for a letter, it's best to do so in person if possible. This allows you to have a more personal conversation and demonstrate your sincerity. Be polite and respectful, just as you mentioned. Start by expressing your appreciation for their teaching and explain why you believe they would be a great person to write your letter. Give them plenty of time to write the letter, ideally at least a month before the deadline.

Finally, provide them with any necessary information about the colleges you're applying to and your goals, so they can tailor the letter accordingly. Don't forget to follow up with a heartfelt thank you note after they've submitted the letter. Good luck!