Letters of Recommendation Look Like?

Hey, so... I know my teachers will be writing letters of recommendation for me, but I'm kind of curious what they actually look like. I mean, what do they usually say and include? What makes a good one stand out? I'm just trying to figure out who I should ask. Thanks in advance!

Sure, I can help clarify this for you. Letters of recommendation (LORs) typically follow a fairly standard format. They usually start with an introduction where the recommender introduces themselves, their connection to you (as their student), and the length of time they've known you.

Next, there is usually a detailed discussion of your academic abilities, extra-curricular involvements, and personal qualities. This isn't just a list but includes examples where the recommender saw you display these skills or attributes. Examples might include a time when you showed a high level of understanding or creativity in a class assignment, how you've shown leadership in an extracurricular, or when you demonstrated empathy or kindness to others.

A strong LOR also often includes comparisons, saying something like you are one of the top 5% of students the teacher has ever taught, for example. This gives admissions officers a frame of reference to understand your accomplishments.

The conclusion of the letter usually summarizes the recommender's opinion of you and explicitly shows their support for your college application.

A standout LOR will provide specific, vivid examples of your character or abilities, rather than just general praise. It will show why you'd be a valuable addition to a college community. Because of this, you should ask teachers who know you well and who you think will write positively about you.

Remember to give your teachers plenty of time to write the letter, and providing them with a resume or list of accomplishments can help them write a more detailed recommendation.