Other requests may be made by a candidate who has made no impression on you, or only a negative one. In this case, consider the candidate’s potential and future goals, and be fair in your evaluation. Sending a negative letter or a generic positive letter for individuals you barely know is not helpful to the selection committee and can backfire for the candidate. It can also, in some instances, backfire for you if a colleague accepts a candidate based on your generic positive letter when you did not necessarily fully support that individual. For instance, letter writers sometimes stretch the truth to make a candidate sound better than they really are, thinking it is helpful. If you do not know the applicant well enough or feel that you cannot be supportive, you are not in a strong position to write the recommendation letter and should decline the request, being open about why you are declining to write the letter. Also, be selective about writing on behalf of colleagues who may be in one’s field but whose work is not well known to you. If you have to read the candidate’s curriculum vitae to find out who they are and what they have done, then you may not be qualified to write the letter [ 8 ].
When declining a request to provide a letter of support, it is important to explain your reasoning to the candidate and suggest how they might improve their prospects for the future [ 8 ]. If the candidate is having a similar problem with other mentors, try to help them identify a more appropriate referee or to explore whether they are making an appropriate application in the first place. Suggest constructive steps to improve relationships with mentors to identify individuals to provide letters in the future. Most importantly, do not let the candidate assume that all opportunities for obtaining supportive letters of recommendation have been permanently lost. Emphasize the candidate’s strengths by asking them to share a favourite paper, assignment, project, or other positive experience that may have taken place outside of your class or lab, to help you identify their strengths. Finally, discuss with the candidate their career goals to help them realize what they need to focus on to become more competitive or steer them in a different career direction. This conversation can mark an important step and become a great interaction and mentoring opportunity for ECRs.
Once you decide to write a recommendation letter, it is important to know what type and level of opportunity the candidate is applying for, as this will determine what should be discussed in the letter ( Figure 1 ). You should carefully read the opportunity posting description and/or ask the candidate to summarize the main requirements and let you know the specific points that they find important to highlight. Pay close attention to the language of the position announcement to fully address the requested information and tailor the letter to the specific needs of the institution, employer, or funding organisation. In some instances, a waiver form or an option indicating whether or not the candidate waives their right to see the recommendation document is provided. If the candidate queries a waiver decision, note that often referees are not allowed to send a letter that is not confidential and that there may be important benefits to maintaining the confidentiality of letters (see Table 1 ). Specifically, selection committees may view confidential letters as having greater credibility and, value and some letter writers may feel less reserved in their praise of candidates in confidential letters.
To acquire appropriate information about the candidate, one or more of the following documents may be valuable: a resume or curriculum vitae (CV), a publication or a manuscript, an assignment or exam written for your course, a copy of the application essay or personal statement, a transcript of academic records, a summary of current work, and specific recommendation forms or questionnaires (if provided) [ 9 ]. Alternatively, you may ask the candidate to complete a questionnaire asking for necessary information and supporting documents [ 10 ]. Examine the candidate’s CV and provide important context to the achievements listed therein. Tailor the letter for the opportunity using these documents as a guide, but do not repeat their contents as the candidate likely submits them separately. Even the most articulate of candidates may find it difficult to describe their qualities in writing [ 11 ]. Furthermore, a request may be made by a person who has made a good impression, but for whom you lack significant information to be able to write a strong letter. Thus, even if you know a candidate well, schedule a brief in-person, phone, or virtual meeting with them to 1) fill in gaps in your knowledge about them, 2) understand why they are applying for this particular opportunity, 3) help bring their past accomplishments into sharper focus, and 4) discuss their short- and long-term goals and how their current studies or research activities relate to the opportunity they are applying for and to these goals. Other key information to gather from the applicant includes the date on which the recommendation letter is due, as well as details on how to submit it.
For most applications (for both academic and non-academic opportunities), a letter of recommendation will need to cover both scholarly capabilities and achievements as well as a broader range of personal qualities and experiences beyond the classroom or the laboratory. This includes extracurricular experiences and traits such as creativity, tenacity, and collegiality. If necessary, discuss with the candidate what they would like to see additionally highlighted. As another example of matching a letter with its purpose, a letter for a fellowship application for a specific project should discuss the validity and feasibility of the project, as well as the candidate’s qualifications for fulfilling the project.
Another factor that greatly facilitates letter writing is drafting one as soon as possible after you have taught or trained the candidate, while your impressions are still clear. You might consider encouraging the candidate to make their requests early [ 11 ]. These letters can be placed in the candidate’s portfolio and maintained in your own files for future reference. If you are writing a letter in response to a request, start drafting it well in advance and anticipate multiple rounds of revision before submission. Once you have been asked by a candidate to write a letter, that candidate may return frequently, over a number of years, for additional letters. Therefore, maintain a digital copy of the letter for your records and for potential future applications for the same candidate.
In the opening, you should introduce yourself and the candidate, state your qualifications and explain how you became acquainted with the candidate, as well as the purpose of the letter, and a summary of your recommendation ( Table 2 ). To explain your relationship with the candidate you should fully describe the capacity in which you know them: the type of experience, the period during which you worked with the candidate, and any special assignments or responsibilities that the candidate performed under your guidance. For instance, the letter may start with: “This candidate completed their postdoctoral training under my supervision. I am pleased to be able to provide my strongest support in recommending them for this opportunity.” You may also consider ranking the candidate among similar level candidates within the opening section to give an immediate impression of your thoughts. Depending on the position, ranking the candidate may also be desired by selection committees, and may be requested within the letter. For instance, the recommendation form or instructions may ask you to rank the candidate in the top 1%, 5%, 10%, etc., of applicants. You could write "the student is in the top 5% of undergraduate students I have trained" Or “There are currently x graduate students in our department and I rank this candidate at the top 1%. Their experimental/computational skills are the best I have ever had in my own laboratory.”. Do not forget to include with whom or what group you are comparing the individual. If you have not yet trained many individuals in your own laboratory, include those that you trained previously as a researcher as reference. Having concentrated on the candidate’s individual or unique strengths, you might find it difficult to provide a ranking. This is less of an issue if a candidate is unambiguously among the top 10% that you have mentored but not all who come to you for a letter will fall within that small group. If you wish to offer a comparative perspective, you might more readily be able to do so in more specific areas such as whether the candidate is one of the most articulate, original, clear-thinking, motivated, or intellectually curious.
Key do’s and don’ts when writing a letter of recommendation
Theme | Do | Do Not |
---|---|---|
Describe all scholarly outputs in equal weight e.g., preprints, protocols, engineered animal models, computer models, software among others. Describe all scholarly and non-scholarly outputs in equal weight e.g., teaching, service, advocacy efforts. Promote the whole human candidate. | Do not ignore the candidate’s non-peer reviewed (e.g. preprints, data or code or protocols submitted to repositories) or in-press outputs. | |
Describe the candidate’s preprints and journal publications in terms of their quality and impact on your work and the field. | Do not judge papers by where they are published. It is the quality of the science & the reputation of the researcher, not the journal’s brand, that matters. Avoid paying excessive attention to how many papers the candidate has published in the family of journals. Refrain from boasting the journals impact factor (JIF) or journal name in the letter as publication in glamour journals does not validate the candidate’s research or guarantee a promising & successful career path. | |
Use agentic (e.g., confident, ambitious, independent) and standout (e.g., best, ideal) adjectives for all candidates, focusing on relevant accomplishments for the opportunity. | Avoid communal words (e.g., kind, affectionate, agreeable) that are more often used for women. Avoid using doubt raising phrases such as “He might be good”, or “she may have potential”, “she has a difficult personality”. | |
Make a criticism sound less damaging. e.g., “When candidate started at my laboratory, their skills were poorly developed, but they have worked diligently to improve them and have taken major steps in that direction.” | Do not leave out important, relevant information even if it may be perceived as negative, put a positive spin on it. | |
Do explain how the candidate’s current and prior work contributes to your laboratories research efforts. | Do not compare the candidate as being as good as person and , but not as good as person . This type of information creates subjectivity. | |
Include context for your scientific field and how the candidate’s research fits into and advances the field. | Do not merely describe mastery of techniques. Pay attention to the candidate’s wider comprehension of the field and their impact on their discipline. Avoid too much jargon and field-specific language, as often a broad audience will be reading the letter. |
The body of the recommendation letter should provide specific information about the candidate and address any questions or requirements posed in the selection criteria (see sections above). Some applications may ask for comments on a candidate’s scholarly performance. Refer the reader to the candidate’s CV and/or transcript if necessary but don’t report grades, unless to make an exceptional point (such as they were the only student to earn a top grade in your class). The body of the recommendation letter will contain the majority of the information including specific examples, relevant candidate qualities, and your experiences with the candidate, and therefore the majority of this manuscript focuses on what to include in this section.
The closing paragraph of the letter should briefly 1) summarize your opinions about the candidate, 2) clearly state your recommendation and strong support of the candidate for the opportunity that they are seeking, and 3) offer the recipient of the letter the option to contact you if they need any further information. Make sure to provide your email address and phone number in case the recipient has additional questions. The overall tone of the letter can represent your confidence in the applicant. If opportunity criteria are detailed and the candidate meets these criteria completely, include this information. Do not focus on what you may perceive as a candidate’s negative qualities as such tone may do more harm than intended ( Table 2 ). Finally, be aware of the Forer’s effect, a cognitive error, in which a very general description, that fits almost everyone, is used to describe a person [ 20 ]. Such generalizations can be harmful, as they provide the candidate the impression that they received a valuable, positive letter, but for the committee, who receive hundreds of similar letters, this is non-informative and unhelpful to the application.
In discussing a candidate’s qualities and character, proceed in ways similar to those used for intellectual evaluation ( Box 1 ). Information to specifically highlight may include personal characteristics, such as integrity, resilience, poise, confidence, dependability, patience, creativity, enthusiasm, teaching capabilities, problem-solving abilities, ability to manage trainees and to work with colleagues, curriculum development skills, collaboration skills, experience in grant writing, ability to organize events and demonstrate abilities in project management, and ability to troubleshoot (see section “ Use ethical principles, positive and inclusive language within the letter ” below for tips on using inclusive terminology). The candidate may also have a specific area of knowledge, strengths and experiences worth highlighting such as strong communication skills, expertise in a particular scientific subfield, an undergraduate degree with a double major, relevant work or research experience, coaching, and/or other extracurricular activities. Consider whether the candidate has taught others in the lab, or shown particular motivation and commitment in their work. When writing letters for mentees who are applying for (non-)academic jobs or admission to academic institutions, do not merely emphasize their strengths, achievements and potential, but also try to 1) convey a sense of what makes them a potential fit for that position or funding opportunity, and 2) fill in the gaps. Gaps may include an insufficient description of the candidate’s strengths or research given restrictions on document length. Importantly, to identify these gaps, one must have carefully reviewed both the opportunity posting as well as the application materials (see Box 1 , Table 2 ).
When writing letters to nominate colleagues for promotion or awards, place stronger emphasis on their achievements and contributions to a field, or on their track record of teaching, mentorship and service, to aid the judging panel. In addition to describing the candidate as they are right now, you can discuss the development the person has undergone (for specific examples see Table 2 ).
A letter of recommendation can also explain weaknesses or ambiguities in the candidate’s record. If appropriate – and only after consulting the candidate - you may wish to mention a family illness, financial hardship, or other factors that may have resulted in a setback or specific portion of the candidate’s application perceived weakness (such as in the candidate’s transcript). For example, sometimes there are acceptable circumstances for a gap in a candidate’s publication record—perhaps a medical condition or a family situation kept them out of the lab for a period of time. Importantly, being upfront about why there is a perceived gap or blemish in the application package can strengthen the application. Put a positive spin on the perceived negatives using terms such as “has taken steps to address gaps in knowledge”, “has worked hard to,” and “made great progress in” (see Table 2 ).
Describe a candidate’s intellectual capabilities in terms that reflect their distinctive or individual strengths and be prepared to support your judgment with field-specific content [ 12 ] and concrete examples. These can significantly strengthen a letter and will demonstrate a strong relationship between you and the candidate. Describe what the candidate’s strengths are, moments they have overcome adversity, what is important to them. For example: “candidate x is exceptionally intelligent. They proved to be a very quick study, learning the elements of research design and technique y in record time. Furthermore, their questions are always thoughtful and penetrating.”. Mention the candidate’s diligence, work ethic, and curiosity and do not merely state that “the applicant is strong” without specific examples. Describing improvements to candidate skills over time can help highlight their work ethic, resolve, and achievements over time. However, do not belabor a potential lower starting point.
Provide specific examples for when leadership was demonstrated, but do not include leadership qualities if they have not been demonstrated. For example, describe the candidate’s qualities such as independence, critical thinking, creativity, resilience, ability to design and interpret experiments; ability to identify the next steps and generate interesting questions or ideas, and what you were especially impressed by. Do not generically list the applicant as independent with no support or if this statement would be untrue.
Do not qualify candidate qualities based on a stereotype for specific identities. Quantify the candidate’s abilities, especially with respect to other scientists who have achieved success in the field and who the letter reader might know. Many letter writers rank applicants according to their own measure of what makes a good researcher, graduate trainee, or technician according to a combination of research strengths, leadership skills, writing ability, oral communication, teaching ability, and collegiality. Describe what the role of the candidate was in their project and eventual publication and do not assume letter readers will identify this information on their own (see Table 2 ). Including a description about roles and responsibilities can help to quantify a candidate’s contribution to the listed work. For example, “The candidate is the first author of the paper, designed, and led the project.”. Even the best mentor can overlook important points, especially since mentors typically have multiple mentees under their supervision. Thus, it can help to ask the candidate what they consider their strengths or traits, and accomplishments of which they are proud.
If you lack sufficient information to answer certain questions about the candidate, it is best to maintain the integrity and credibility of your letter - as the recommending person, you are potentially writing to a colleague and/or someone who will be impacted by your letter; therefore, honesty is key above all. Avoid the misconception that the more superlatives you use, the stronger the letter. Heavy use of generic phrases or clichés is unhelpful. Your letter can only be effective if it contains substantive information about the specific candidate and their qualifications for the opportunity. A recommendation that paints an unrealistic picture of a candidate may be discounted. All information in a letter of recommendation should be, to the best of your knowledge, accurate. Therefore, present the person truthfully but positively. Write strongly and specifically about someone who is truly excellent (explicitly describe how and why they are special). Write a balanced letter without overhyping the candidate as it will not help them.
Beware of what you leave out of the recommendation letter. For most opportunities, there are expectations of what should be included in a letter, and therefore what is not said can be just as important as what is said. Importantly, do not assume all the same information is necessary for every opportunity. In general, you should include the information stated above, covering how you know the candidate, their strengths, specific examples to support your statements, and how the candidate fits well for the opportunity. For example, if you don’t mention a candidate’s leadership skills or their ability to work well with others, the letter reader may wonder why, if the opportunity requires these skills. Always remember that opportunities are sought by many individuals, so evaluators may look for any reason to disregard an application, such as a letter not following instructions or discussing the appropriate material. Also promote the candidate by discussing all of their scholarly and non-scholarly efforts, including non-peer reviewed research outputs such as preprints, academic and non-academic service, and advocacy work which are among their broader impact and all indicative of valuable leadership qualities for both academic and non-academic environments ( Table 2 ).
Provide an even-handed judgment of scholarly impact, be fair and describe accomplishments fairly by writing a balanced letter about the candidate’s attributes that is thoughtful and personal (see Table 2 ). Submitting a generic, hastily written recommendation letter is not helpful and can backfire for both the candidate and the letter writer as you will often leave out important information for the specific opportunity; thus, allow for sufficient time and effort on each candidate/application.
Making the letter memorable by adding content that the reader will remember, such as an unusual anecdote, or use of a unique term to describe the candidate. This will help the application stand out from all the others. Tailor the letter to the candidate, including as much unique, relevant information as possible and avoid including personal information unless the candidate gives consent. Provide meaningful examples of achievements and provide stories or anecdotes that illustrate the candidate’s strengths. Say what the candidate specifically did to give you that impression ( Box 1 ). Don’t merely praise the candidate using generalities such as “candidate x is a quick learner”.
Gender affects scientific careers. Avoid providing information that is irrelevant to the opportunity, such as ethnicity, age, hobbies, or marital status. Write about professional attributes that pertain to the application. However, there are qualities that might be important to the job or funding opportunity. For instance, personal information may illustrate the ability to persevere and overcome adversity - qualities that are helpful in academia and other career paths. It is critical to pay attention to biases and choices of words while writing the letter [ 13 , 14 ]. Advocacy bias (a letter writer is more likely to write a strong letter for someone similar to themselves) has been identified as an issue in academic environments [ 3 ]. Studies have also shown that there are often differences in the choice of words used in letters for male and female scientists [ 3 , 5 ]. For instance, letters for women have been found not to contain much specific and descriptive language. Descriptions often pay greater attention to the personal lives or personal characteristics of women than men, focusing on items that have little relevance in a letter of recommendation. When writing recommendation letters, employers have a tendency to focus on scholarly capabilities in male candidates and personality features in female candidates; for instance, female candidates tend to be depicted in letters as teachers and trainees, whereas male candidates are described as researchers and professionals [ 15 ]. Also, letters towards males often contain more standout words such as “superb”, “outstanding”, and “excellent”. Furthermore, letters for women had been found to contain more doubt-raising statements, including negative or unexplained comments [ 3 , 15 , 16 ]. This is discriminative towards women and gives a less clear picture of women as professionals. Keep the letter gender neutral. Do not write statements such as “candidate x is a kind woman” or “candidate y is a fantastic female scientist” as these have no bearing on whether someone will do well in graduate school or in a job. One way to reduce gender bias is by checking your reference letter with a gender bias calculator [ 17 , 18 ]. Test for gender biases by writing a letter of recommendation for any candidate, male or female, and then switch all the pronouns to the opposite gender. Read the letter over and ask yourself if it sounds odd. If it does, you should probably change the terms used [ 17 ]. Other biases also exist, and so while gender bias has been the most heavily investigated, bias based on other identities (race, nationality, ethnicity, among others) should also be examined and assessed in advance and during letter writing to ensure accurate and appropriate recommendations for all.
The recommendation letter should be written using language that is straightforward and concise [ 19 ]. Avoid using jargon or language that is too general or effusive ( Table 1 ). Formats and styles of single and co-signed letters are also important considerations. In some applications, the format is determined by the application portal itself in which the recommender is asked to answer a series of questions. If these questions do not cover everything you would like to address you could inquire if there is the option to provide a letter as well. Conversely, if the recommendation questionnaire asks for information that you cannot provide, it is best to explicitly mention this in writing. The care with which you write the letter will also influence the effectiveness of the letter - writing eloquently is another way of registering your support for the candidate. Letters longer than two pages can be counterproductive, and off-putting as reviewers normally have a large quantity of letters to read. In special cases, longer letters may be more favourable depending on the opportunity. On the other hand, anything shorter than a page may imply a lack of interest or knowledge, or a negative impression on the candidate. In letter format, write at least 3-4 paragraphs. It is important to note that letters from different sectors, such as academia versus industry tend to be of different lengths. Ensure that your letter is received by the requested method (mail or e-mail) and deadline, as a late submission could be detrimental for the candidate. Write and sign the letter on your department letterhead which is a further form of identification.
Recommendation letters can serve as important tools for assessing ECRs as potential candidates for a job, course, or funding opportunity. Candidates need to request letters in advance and provide relevant information for the recommender. Readers at selection committees need to examine the letter objectively with an eye for information on the quality of the candidate’s scholarly and non-scholarly endeavours and scientific traits. As a referee, it is important that you are positive, candid, yet helpful, as you work with the candidate in drafting a letter in their support. In writing a recommendation letter, summarize your thoughts on the candidate and emphasize your strong support for their candidacy. A successful letter communicates the writer’s enthusiasm for an individual, but does so realistically, sympathetically, and with concrete examples to support the writer’s associations. Writing recommendation letters can help mentors examine their interactions with their mentee and know them in different light. Express your willingness to help further by concluding the letter with an offer to be contacted should the reader need more information. Remember that a letter writer’s judgment and credibility are at stake thus do spend the time and effort to present yourself as a recommender in the best light and help ECRs in their career path.
S.J.H. was supported by the National Institutes of Health grant R35GM133732. A.P.S. was partially supported by the NARSAD Young Investigator Grant 27705.
ECR | Early-Career Researcher |
CV | Curriculum Vitae |
Conflicts of Interest
The authors declare no conflicts of interest.
A professional letter of recommendation can be a crucial element in your application, helping you stand out in a crowded field. Schools like MIT , for example, require two letters of recommendation as part of their admissions process.
Table of Content
These letters, typically written by professors or supervisors, strongly endorse your skills, character, and potential. Admissions committees rely on these insights to make informed decisions.
Leap has helped more than 1 Lakh students achieve 7+ IELTS band.
In this article, you’ll learn how to craft a compelling professional letter of recommendation to help you take the next step in your career or academic journey. Dive in!
Here’s everything you will learn in greater detail in this blog about professional letter of recommendation.
Word Limit of a Professional Letter of Recommendation | 400-500 words |
Formatting | : Times New Roman | : 10 to 12 | : 1-inch |
Common Mistakes to Avoid | Open communication, timely submission, highlight strengths |
A professional letter of recommendation, often called a LOR, is vital to many application processes, whether for academic programs, jobs, or scholarships. It provides a trusted perspective on your abilities, character, and potential.
Universities such as Harvard and Stanford often require two to three letters of recommendation as part of their application process. These letters offer admissions committees a deeper understanding of who you are beyond your grades or resume.
Writing an impactful LOR can be challenging, so having a well-crafted example can be incredibly helpful. By reviewing a solid sample, you can learn how to showcase your strengths and experiences effectively, helping you make a lasting impression.
Writing a professional letter of recommendation involves presenting a clear and compelling endorsement of the candidate’s qualifications.
In this section, you’ll learn the key steps to structure your letter effectively, including what information to include and how to highlight your strengths.
Later in the blog, you will also find professional reference letter templates and learn how to ensure your letter strongly impacts the reader.
Getting into a prestigious MBA or PhD program is a challenging feat. One of the most critical components of your application is the strength of your Letters of Recommendation (LORs).
Schools like Caltech typically ask for three LORs, favouring those from academic mentors who can speak to your research abilities and potential.
These letters are vital to your application, offering essential external validation of your qualifications.
Here is a quick overview of the structure of professional reference letter templates.
Address by name (“Dear Mr./Mrs./Dr. [Last Name]”) or “To Whom It May Concern.” | |
Introduction of the recommender and relationship with the candidate. | |
Overview of your critical abilities and strengths. | |
Specific examples of your achievements. | |
Reaffirm confidence and provide contact information. | |
Mention name and signature. |
As you focus on your IELTS preparation and other application tasks, paying attention to a solid professional letter of recommendation is crucial. A well-crafted and structured LOR can significantly impact your chances of admission, making it a key element in your college application.
Here is a professional letter of recommendation format.
Pages | 1-2 pages long |
Paragraphs | 5-6 paragraphs |
Font Type | Times New Roman |
Font Size | 10 to 12 point |
Margins | 1 inch on all sides |
Line Spacing | Single-spaced with double space between paragraphs |
Alignment | Left-aligned |
Header | Optional bold for name and title |
Salutation | Optional bold for addressing |
Closing Statement | Optional bold for final endorsement |
Signature | Optional bold for name and title |
Professional letter of recommendation examples.
A sample professional reference letter can help you craft a solid recommendation. However, using these examples as a guide rather than copying them directly is essential.
Below, you’ll find professional letter of recommendation examples. These professional reference letter templates show how your supervisors can highlight your qualifications and suitability for higher studies.
Please see a sample professional reference letter and a professional letter of recommendation for ms below.
DISCLAIMER: The name “John Smith” is used in this sample LOR for illustrative purposes only.
[Full Name] Research Scientist [Company Name] [Company Address] [City, State ZIP Code] [Email Address] [Phone Number] [Date]
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am pleased to write this letter of recommendation for John Smith, who has been an outstanding member of our research team at [Company Name] for the past three years. Throughout this time, I have had the privilege of supervising John closely, observing his impressive intellectual capabilities, unwavering dedication, and exceptional problem-solving skills.
As a research scientist, John has consistently exceeded expectations. His contributions, particularly in [specific research area], have been critical to our team’s success. For example, his leadership in the [project name] initiative was vital to achieving [specific outcome]. John demonstrated a deep understanding of the challenges involved and developed innovative solutions that significantly advanced our research objectives. His ability to navigate complex problems and deliver effective solutions has set him apart as a critical contributor to our team’s accomplishments.
John’s standout qualities are his ability to combine theoretical knowledge with practical application seamlessly. His work on [specific project or task] is a perfect example. By [briefly describing particular actions taken], John achieved [quantifiable result], showcasing his analytical skills and talent for turning complex concepts into real-world outcomes. This project highlighted his technical proficiency and ability to think critically and apply his knowledge in ways that yield tangible results.
Beyond his technical expertise, John excels in interpersonal and communication skills. He is a collaborative team member who freely shares his knowledge with colleagues, ensuring everyone benefits from his insights. His ability to explain complex ideas clearly and understandably has been invaluable in both internal discussions and external presentations. Additionally, John has taken on leadership roles within the team, mentoring junior researchers and contributing to a positive work environment. His leadership has helped foster a collaborative and innovative atmosphere crucial to our collective success.
John’s passion for research and drive for continuous learning are truly admirable. He is always seeking new challenges and opportunities for growth. For instance, [describe a specific example of initiative or self-directed learning] demonstrates his intellectual curiosity and commitment to professional development. This proactive approach to learning and growth is a testament to his dedication to his field and his desire to improve and expand his expertise continually.
I am confident that John possesses the intellectual capacity, technical expertise, and personal qualities necessary to excel in a Master’s program. His strong foundation in [specific field] and his enthusiasm for research make him an excellent candidate for advanced studies. I highly recommend John Smith for admission to your program, as he will be a valuable addition to your research community. Please feel free to contact me if you need any further information.
Sincerely, [Full Name] Manager – Sales [Company Name]
I am pleased to recommend John Smith, who has been an exceptional member of our research team at [Company Name] for the past three years. During this period, I have had the privilege of supervising John directly, allowing me to observe his impressive intellectual abilities, dedication, and exceptional problem-solving skills daily.
John has consistently delivered outstanding work as a research scientist. His contributions, particularly in [specific research area], have been pivotal to our team’s success. For example, his leadership in the [project name] initiative was crucial in achieving [specific outcome]. John’s ability to deeply understand the challenges associated with this project and his innovative approach to overcoming them significantly advanced our research efforts. His contributions went beyond what was expected, demonstrating his technical prowess and his commitment to excellence.
One of John’s greatest strengths is his ability to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical application. This was evident in his work on [specific project or task]. By [briefly describing particular actions taken], John achieved [quantifiable result], effectively showcasing his strong analytical skills and remarkable ability to turn complex concepts into tangible, real-world results. His work did not just meet the project’s objectives; it set a new standard for what could be achieved within our team, earning him the respect and admiration of his colleagues.
In addition to his technical expertise, John possesses excellent interpersonal and communication skills. He is a collaborative team player who readily shares his knowledge with colleagues, often going out of his way to ensure that others understand the intricate details of complex projects. His clear and concise communication has been invaluable, whether in internal discussions or during external presentations, and his ability to articulate complex ideas understandably has contributed significantly to the success of our projects. Furthermore, John has demonstrated strong leadership abilities, taking on roles where he has mentored junior researchers, helping them grow and develop their skills.
John’s passion for research and commitment to continuous learning are commendable. He is always seeking new challenges and opportunities for growth, for instance, [describe a specific example of initiative or self-directed learning], which is a testament to his intellectual curiosity and dedication to professional development.
I do not doubt that John possesses the intellectual capacity, technical skills, and personal qualities necessary to excel in a master’s program. His strong background in [specific field] and enthusiasm for work make him an ideal candidate for advanced studies. I wholeheartedly recommend John Smith for admission to your program and am confident he will be a valuable asset to your academic community. If you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely, [Full Name] Senior Engineer [Company Name]
Crafting a compelling professional letter of recommendation involves more than just structure; your chosen language is crucial in shaping how the admissions committee views your application.
Below, you’ll find some suggested vocabulary to help strengthen your LOR and make it more impactful.
Keep in mind that these words are meant to enhance your writing. Thoughtful use of them will improve the professionalism and effectiveness of your recommendation.
Introduction | Delighted, Exemplary, Privilege |
Academic Achievements | Outstanding, Exceptional, Remarkable |
Technical Skills | Proficient, Adept, Innovative |
Research Contributions | Significant, Inventive, Insightful |
Problem-Solving Abilities | Analytical, Ingenious, Resourceful |
Personal Qualities | Dedicated, Motivated, Collaborative |
Professional Experience | Leadership, Initiative, Reliable |
Communication Skills | Articulate, Persuasive, Eloquent |
Teamwork | Cooperative, Synergistic, Supportive |
Conclusion/Recommendation | Confident, Highest Recommendation, Ideal Candidate |
Did you know that in 2024, over 1.3 million Indian students went abroad for higher studies? If you’re aiming for admission to top universities like Oxford in the UK or Harvard in the US, having a solid professional letter of recommendation for graduate school is essential.
These letters must be thoughtfully written to ensure your application stands out and increases your chances of being selected.
Below are the crucial tips for writing a compelling professional letter of recommendation for graduate school.
Choosing the right person for your professional letter of recommendation is crucial. This is especially true in today’s competitive environment, where 25% of the one million international students in the US are Indian.
Your recommender should be someone who can genuinely advocate for you and provide an objective assessment of your abilities. A solid professional letter of recommendation offers a unique perspective, reflecting the recommender’s observations and experiences with you helping your application stand out.
Your ideal recommender should be someone who:
When universities consider applicants for graduate programs, they seek candidates who can thrive under mentorship and deliver strong results. They want individuals who are deeply committed and focused on their chosen field.
Letters of recommendation play a key role in identifying these ideal candidates. Below, you’ll find the requirements for a professional letter of recommendation from some of the most renowned institutions.
3 | |
Stanford University | 3 |
3 | |
2 | |
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Crafting a strong professional letter of recommendation is crucial when applying to highly competitive universities like Oxford and Stanford, which often require three such letters. A well-written LOR can significantly enhance your application by providing a personalised perspective on your academic abilities, character, and potential.
A compelling letter can help you stand out among talented applicants by highlighting your strengths and accomplishments. It will increase your chances of securing admission to your dream institution. Are you looking to get a solid professional letter of recommendation? Leap Scholar’s experts are here to help you craft the perfect LOR and guide you through every step of the application process. Book a consultation today and take the first step toward your academic success.
Q. what is a professional letter of recommendation.
A. A professional letter of recommendation is written by someone who knows you well, such as a professor, supervisor, or mentor, and can vouch for your skills, character, and qualifications. Universities or employers often require this letter to provide an external, objective assessment of your abilities, work ethic, and potential.
A. A professional letter of recommendation is crucial for graduate program applications because it gives admissions committees a trusted, third-party perspective on your abilities and readiness for advanced study. While your academic transcripts and personal statements showcase your achievements and goals, a letter of recommendation offers a deeper insight into your work ethic, character, and interaction in professional or academic settings.
A. You should ask someone who knows you well and can provide a detailed, positive assessment of your qualifications. Ideal recommenders include professors who have taught you in courses related to your intended field of study, supervisors who have overseen your work on significant projects, or mentors who have guided you in your academic or professional development.
A. Top universities, such as Oxford, Stanford, and Princeton, typically require three letters of recommendation for their graduate program application process. These letters are expected to come from individuals who can provide distinct perspectives on your abilities and character. For example, one letter might focus on your academic achievements, another on your research skills, and a third on your professional experience.
A. A professional, solid letter of recommendation should include several key elements to support your application effectively. It should begin with an introduction establishing the recommender’s relationship with you and their qualifications to speak on your behalf. The letter’s body should summarise your key strengths, supported by specific examples of your achievements and contributions in academic or professional settings.
A. A professional letter of recommendation is typically 1-2 pages long, consisting of 5-6 well-structured paragraphs. The length allows the recommender to thoroughly assess your qualifications without overwhelming the reader. Each paragraph should focus on your skills or character, such as your academic abilities, research experience, leadership qualities, or personal integrity.
A. The letter should be formatted according to standard professional guidelines. This includes 1-inch margins, single-spaced lines, and left-aligned text. The font should be according to and experienced, such as Times n, with a size between 10 and 12 points. The letter should include a formal salutation, a clear introduction, a detailed body, and a strong closing statement.
A. While it’s possible to use the same recommender for multiple applications, it’s generally best to have them tailor each letter to the specific program or job you’re applying to. Different programs may value different qualities or experiences, so a one-size-fits-all letter may not highlight the most relevant aspects of your background.
A. A professional letter of recommendation is typically more detailed and formal than a reference letter. It focuses on your qualifications for a specific program or job and is often written by someone who has closely supervised your academic or professional work. On the other hand, a reference letter might be more general and can come from a broader range of individuals, such as a colleague or a community leader.
A. To help your recommender write a strong letter of recommendation, provide them with detailed information about your goals, achievements, and the specific requirements of the program or job you’re applying to. Share your resume, a statement draft, and other relevant documents highlighting your qualifications.
A. A well-written letter of recommendation can significantly enhance your application by providing a credible, third-party endorsement of your abilities, character, and potential. This external validation can reinforce the claims you’ve made in your statement and other application materials, helping to build a more compelling case for your admission.
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APA Style provides a foundation for effective scholarly communication because it helps writers present their ideas in a clear, concise, and inclusive manner. When style works best, ideas flow logically, sources are credited appropriately, and papers are organized predictably. People are described using language that affirms their worth and dignity. Authors plan for ethical compliance and report critical details of their research protocol to allow readers to evaluate findings and other researchers to potentially replicate the studies. Tables and figures present information in an engaging, readable manner.
The style and grammar guidelines pages present information about APA Style as described in the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association, Seventh Edition and the Concise Guide to APA Style, Seventh Edition . Any updates to APA Style are noted on the applicable topic pages. If you are still using the sixth edition, helpful resources are available in the sixth edition archive .
Looking at samples of real student posters can help you generate ideas and define your goals. As you get started, it may be helpful to look at examples of finished posters.
Below are a number of sample posters created by UT undergraduates. There is a brief discussion of each poster highlighting its greatest strengths and areas where there is room for improvement.
Room for improvement
Begin working on the content for your poster at Create Your Message .
Mountain Lions Generously Compensated During 8-Week Research Opportunity
When Estrella Mountain Community College (EMCC) Geology Professor Zachary Kovach told his students about an eight-week paid geoscience research opportunity at the University of Arizona (U of A) this summer, they wanted in. To be considered for U of A’s Clouds to the Core program, they had to submit a personal statement of interest, their transcripts, and a letter of recommendation. Only 12 students total from community and tribal colleges across the southwest would be accepted. Four Mountain Lions make the cut.
“I don’t think it is common to get four students like we did,” Professor Kovach said. “EMCC represented 33% of the students!”
Clouds to the Core introduces students from two-year colleges to geoscience career opportunities and the opportunity to transfer to the U of A to earn a bachelor’s degree in geosciences after earning their associate degree at EMCC. Although this is the program’s second year, the idea began in 2020 when the U of A’s Drs. Andy Cohen and Kau Thirumalai, reached out to Professor Kovach, wanting to tailor a program to undergraduate/community college-level students.
The program begins with a two-week orientation and project introduction period at the U of A, followed by five weeks of research. Each student is assigned a different research topic and mentors. During the last week of the program, students present their work to their peers, lab mates, mentors, friends, and family. Each student is compensated with free lodging, a $600-per-week stipend, and a $100-per-week food allowance.
“When setting this program up, it was important to discuss who our students are and the fact that most of them are working in some capacity,” Professor Kovach said. “So in order to get these students to go to the U of A for eight weeks or so, they also needed to be compensated. The stipend and room and board are what make this possible for a lot of the students.”
The compensation aspect was especially intriguing to EMCC Environmental Engineering major Justice Gonzales, whose research project involved determining the ocean’s role in the southwest climate.
“I was very excited when I found out I’d been accepted into the program because it meant I would have the security to not have to work other jobs during the summer and be able to learn and further my educational goals,” Justice said. “It was very reassuring to find out that somebody saw enough value in me to compensate me well and let me know my worth going forward.”
Becca Lord agreed.
“I think it's cool that we got paid because I feel like most programs don’t pay their participants,” Becca said. “And it was really nice that we didn’t have to worry about room and board, so we could just focus on our research.”
When Becca found out she’d been accepted into the Clouds to the Core program, she was getting ready to graduate from EMCC with her Associate in General Business. She had very little geoscience background.
“When I found out I’d been accepted, I cried,” Becca said. “I was overwhelmed and in disbelief because I didn’t think a business major with no experience in geoscience would be accepted.”
Becca’s research project, titled “Temporal Constraints on the Cat Mountain Supervolcanic Sequence,” focused on determining if two different types of rocks found within the Tucson Mountain range were equal in age. Becca and her mentors spent a couple of days in the field collecting samples and then running them through various equipment in the lab.
“I was not familiar with any of the lab equipment going into this program, but I was provided with training by my supportive mentors,” Becca said. “I never felt alone in my work, and I knew there was always someone to ask questions of.”
The program gets the students out of their comfort zone, but is very mindful about it, Professor Kovach said.
“They have their faculty mentor as well as undergraduate mentors who went through the program last year,” Professor Kovach said. “So there really is a lot of support, not only research/academically, but also support on campus life, living on their own, having someone to talk to, etc.”
Becca’s research ended up revealing that rocks found in several locations within the Tucson Mountains were of vastly different ages — some 2 million years apart.
“We’re not sure why that is,” Becca said. “It will take more research to determine that. But it tells us that the source of the Cat Mountain Tuff, which is igneous and extrusive — ejected material in an eruption — had to have come from somewhere else, outside of the Tucson Mountains.”
With an Associate in General Business already under her belt, Becca is now working on an Associate in Science with an Emphasis in Geology. Once she completes that degree, she will transfer to the U of A and have the opportunity to continue her research.
“This makes me even more excited since my research left me with so many questions,” Becca said.
Once she transfers to the U of A, she will pursue a bachelor’s in Geoscience and Society, something she is even more confident about now that she has completed the Clouds to the Core program.
“This program provided me with the resources and connections necessary to make the transfer to the U of A, but also to form friendships with people I’ll be transferring with and studying alongside.”
Taiton Grey might be one of them. The dual major — Automated Industrial Technology and Mechanical Engineering — will graduate from EMCC in 2026, transfer to Arizona State University for a bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering, and then most likely head on down to the U of A for a master’s and PhD in Sustainability and Agriculture. Taiton said the Clouds to the Core program absolutely influenced his choice of major and decision to pursue geoscience.
“For my own personal reasons, I want to get my bachelor’s in engineering because I just like knowing how things work,” Taiton said. “And the jobs I want either want an engineering degree or a geoscience degree so that’s why I am doing my master’s and PhD in the geosciences.”
Taiton, who grew up in Virginia, said his research project, “Sea Level Rise Acceleration After 2010,” hit especially close to home.
“I felt like it was the perfect project for me because my focus was on the acceleration along the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts and most of my family is dispersed along those regions,” he said. “I was even able to use actual photographs from beaches back home in my final presentation.”
Students in the program were assigned roommates and housed in one of the U of A’s dormitories. When they weren’t conducting their own research, they got to know each other, hanging out, sharing meals, and participating in group activities such as hikes and a visit to Biosphere 2. Eden Toliver, an EMCC Anthropology major, said the most rewarding aspect of being in the program was getting to make so many new friends.
“It was great getting to spend time with the other participants,” Eden said. “I hope to stay in touch with most of the other students. I know I'll be staying in touch with Justice since I see Justice a lot around school already.”
Eden’s research project, “Crystal Settling Timescales in Magma,” involved determining how crystals forming and settling in magma affect the properties of the magma, changing how it will erupt. Most of Eden’s time was spent in the lab, filming different-sized acrylic spheres falling into water and oil and analyzing the footage to ascertain their velocity.
“I was definitely busy once I got started on my project,” Eden said. “I still had time to do other things, but I was occupied for most of the day.”
While students grew more comfortable in their research endeavors, they were all a little nervous during their presentations, but Professor Kovach, who drove down to Tucson to support them, said they all did an amazing job.
Dr. Cohen said the program gives students a huge leg up in terms of confidence and readiness to attend a STEM B.S. or B.A. program.
“Our goal specifically is to encourage transfer to the U of A and our Geosciences Department,” Dr. Cohen said. “We provide 6 units of upper-division credit at no cost to the students for those who decide to attend the U of A and major in Geosciences.”
EMCC has transfer partnerships with the University of Arizona, Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University, Grand Canyon University, and more than 40 public, private, and online institutions across the country. Learn more at https://www.estrellamountain.edu/university-transfer .
The application for the 2025 Clouds to the Core summer program will open in the fall. Students can learn more and apply by going to https://c2c.geo.arizona.edu/ and clicking on “Apply Now.”
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COMMENTS
Recommendations for future research should be: Concrete and specific. Supported with a clear rationale. Directly connected to your research. Overall, strive to highlight ways other researchers can reproduce or replicate your results to draw further conclusions, and suggest different directions that future research can take, if applicable.
This can include recommendations related to sample size, data collection techniques, research instruments, data analysis methods, or other relevant factors. Justify recommendations: Justify why each recommendation is being made and how it will help to address the research question or objective. It is important to provide a clear rationale for ...
Here is a step-wise guide to build your understanding on the development of research recommendations. 1. Understand the Research Question: Understand the research question and objectives before writing recommendations. Also, ensure that your recommendations are relevant and directly address the goals of the study. 2.
Recommendation in research example. See below for a full research recommendation example that you can use as a template to write your own. Recommendation section. The current study can be interpreted as a first step in the research on COPD speech characteristics. However, the results of this study should be treated with caution due to the small ...
Step 2: Analyse Your Findings. You have to examine your data and identify your key results. This analysis forms the foundation for your recommendations. Look for patterns and unexpected findings that might suggest new areas for other researchers to explore.
Recommendation in research : The current study can be interpreted as a first step in the research on differentiated instructions. However, the results of this study should be treated with caution as the selected participants were more willing to make changes in their teaching models, limiting the generalizability of the model.
Crafting impactful recommendations is a vital skill for any researcher looking to bridge the gap between their findings and real-world applications. By understanding the purpose of recommendations, identifying areas for future research, structuring your suggestions effectively, and connecting them to your research findings, you can unlock the ...
As a researcher, you display a deep understanding of the topic of research. Therefore you should be able to give recommendations. Here are a few tips that will help you to give appropriate recommendations. Recommendations in the research paper should be the objective of the research. Therefore at least one of your objectives of the paper is to ...
Let's look at some examples. Although this list was beneficial in guiding my recommendations, I still wasn't well-versed in how to write them. So, after some time, I created a formula for writing recommendations: Observed problem/pain point/unmet need + consequence + potential solution.
Having drawn your conclusions you can then make recommendations. These should flow from your conclusions. They are suggestions about action that might be taken by people or organizations in the light of the conclusions that you have drawn from the results of the research. Like the conclusions, the recommendations may be open to debate.
A research recommendation will rarely have an absolute value in itself. Its relative priority will be influenced by the burden of ill health (d), which is itself dependent on factors such as local prevalence, disease severity, relevant risk factors, and the priorities of the organisation considering commissioning the research.
The recommendation: Based on these results, physicians are recommended to encourage patients to exercise and walk regularly. Also recommended is to encourage more walking through public health offices in communities. Example 3. A study found that many research articles do not contain the sample sizes needed to statistically confirm their findings.
The conclusions are as stated below: i. Students' use of language in the oral sessions depicted their beliefs and values. based on their intentions. The oral sessions prompted the students to be ...
The initially stated overarching aim of this research was to identify the contextual factors and mechanisms that are regularly associated with effective and cost-effective public involvement in research. While recognising the limitations of our analysis, we believe we have largely achieved this in our revised theory of public involvement in research set out in Chapter 8. We have developed and ...
Recommendation reports are texts that advise audiences about the best ways to solve a problem. Recommendation reports are a type of formal report that is widely used across disciplines and professions. Subject Matter Experts aim to make recommendations based on the best available theory, research and practice. Different disciplines and professions have different research methods
Here are a few guidelines to enable you to write a good recommendation for your research paper. 1. ... A sample size of 142 subjects was purposively drawn from a population of 27, 057 students ...
A recommendation in research refers to the advice or suggestions provided by researchers at the conclusion of their study, aimed at addressing the gaps identified, enhancing future research, and applying findings in practical contexts.Recommendations are crucial as they guide stakeholders, including policymakers, practitioners, and fellow researchers, on how to utilize the research outcomes ...
Here are some helpful tips for writing dissertation recommendations that you should incorporate when drafting a research paper: Avoid general or vague recommendations. Be specific and concrete. Offer measurable insights Ensure your suggestions are practical and implementable. Avoid focusing on theoretical concepts or new findings but on future ...
questions around treatments: population, inter vention, comparison, and outcomes (PICO). In addition, the. research recommendation is dated and author s are. asked to provide the current state of ...
the purpose, research questions and results of the study. The implications of these findings and the resultant recommendations will also be explained. Recommendations were based on the conclusions and purpose of the study. 5.2 OVERVIEW OF THE STUDY The study was an exploratory, descriptive and contextual qualitative study. The
Below are nine sample recommendation letters, each followed by an analysis of what it does well! Sample Recommendation Letter 1: Written by a Direct Manager for a Full-Time Employee. Sample Recommendation Letter 2: Written by a Principal for a Teacher. Sample Recommendation Letter 3: Written by a Direct Manager for a Part-Time Employee.
Writing recommendation letters on behalf of students and other early-career researchers is an important mentoring task within academia. An effective recommendation letter describes key candidate qualities such as academic achievements, extracurricular activities, outstanding personality traits, participation in and dedication to a particular discipline, and the mentor's confidence in the ...
Please see a sample professional reference letter and a professional letter of recommendation for ms below. DISCLAIMER: The name "John Smith" is used in this sample LOR for illustrative purposes only. Sample Professional Reference Letter [Full Name] Research Scientist [Company Name] [Company Address] [City, State ZIP Code] [Email Address ...
People are described using language that affirms their worth and dignity. Authors plan for ethical compliance and report critical details of their research protocol to allow readers to evaluate findings and other researchers to potentially replicate the studies. Tables and figures present information in an engaging, readable manner.
Undergraduate Research Peter T. Flawn Academic Center (FAC) Room 33 2304 Whitis Ave. Austin, Texas 78712 512-471-7152. Find us on Facebook. Find us on X (formerly Twitter) See us on Instagram ... Below are a number of sample posters created by UT undergraduates. There is a brief discussion of each poster highlighting its greatest strengths and ...
5 likes, 0 comments - phd_pdf_scholarship on August 17, 2024: "Letter of Recommendation sample for your PhD & Master's applications Join us for research related guidance and research opportunities from best in the fields.欄 헪헵헮혁혀헔헽헽 헧헲헹헲헴헿헮헺 헟헶헻헸헲헱헜헻 #ResearchTips #AcademicSuccess #StudentLife #ResearchQuestion #StudySmart #AcademicWriting # ...
Mountain Lions Generously Compensated During 8-Week Research Opportunity When Estrella Mountain Community College (EMCC) Geology Professor Zachary Kovach told his students about an eight-week paid geoscience research opportunity at the University of Arizona (U of A) this summer, they wanted in. To be considered for U of A's Clouds to the Core program, they had to submit a personal statement ...
Research: H5N1 Beef Safety Studies. To verify the safety of the meat supply in the context of H5N1, FSIS, APHIS, and USDA's Agricultural Research Service (ARS) have completed three separate beef safety studies related to avian influenza in meat from dairy cattle. Beef Muscle Sampling of Cull Dairy Cows. On May 30, 2024, FSIS announced the final results of its beef muscle sampling of cull dairy ...
How to write a recommendation report. You can write a recommendation report with the following steps: 1. Choose a topic. Choose a topic for your recommendation report. If you are writing a recommendation report in the workplace, you may already have a problem to solve, which serves as your topic. If you're writing in an academic setting, you ...
Waste Management, Inc. (NYSE:WM - Get Free Report) has been assigned an average recommendation of "Moderate Buy" from the twenty ratings firms that are currently covering the company, Marketbeat Ratings reports.Eleven analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation, eight have issued a buy recommendation and one has issued a strong buy recommendation on the company.