Prepare a "brag sheet" for each teacher who will be providing a recommendation letter for you. Make sure to request the recommendation at least 3 weeks before the application is due. Asking for letters early on will ensure that the teachers you've chosen are on board, and the letters themselves may turn out better since your teachers will have more time to think about what they want to say. You should also send a copy to your counselor as we have to write recommendation as well.