Do's:

1.       Do carefully consider if you can write a strong supporting letter for your student.  Carefully consider the time commitment, the relationship with the student, and the student’s performance in the classroom.  It’s OK to say no. 

2.       Do ask for information about the student and get to know who you are recommending.  Learn about the student’s background from the resume, transcripts, personal statement, and other teachers.  Do some research.

3.       Do explain why you are recommending the student.  Give specific examples of positive experiences or interactions with the student.  Be personal.

4.       Do emphasize the student’s potential by describing the positive contribution of your student in or outside the class.  Give details.

5.       Do write a well thought out letter. Set aside enough time for planning, proofreading, and revision if necessary.  Make sure your recommendation letter is lucid to the reader. 

6.       Do include ways to contact you (email or phone number) in the closing of the letter.  Assure the reader of your genuine endorsement should they want to follow up.

Don'ts:

7.       Don’t miss the deadline for submitting the letter.  Clearly mark the due date on your calendar.  Pay attention to submission instructions. 

8.       Don’t be vague in your endorsement.  Avoid generalization in the evaluation of your student’s accomplishments.   Be specific.

9.       Don’t distract the discussion about the candidate.  Although it is important to introduce the reader to your background and relationship with the student to bring credibility to your recommendation, try to focus the attention on the student.  Do not overemphasize your own contribution as a mentor and thus diminish the value of the student as a candidate.

10.   Don’t use biased or discriminatory tone in your evaluation.  Be socially and culturally sensitive when using descriptive words that may render racial or gender stereotypes.  Grindstone (hardworking, dependable, diligent), communal (warm, nurturing, kind), agentic (ambitious, dominant) adjectives should be written with caution.

11.   Don’t use passive voice in your evaluation.  Instead, use active verbs to keep the reader engaged in the applicant. 

12.   Don’t use form letters or recycled information for multiple letters.  Try to write the letter original and tailored to each candidate, especially when different students ask you to send the letter to the same institute.