If you are considering asking me for a letter of recommendation or to serve as reference for something you are applying for, please read the following information carefully, and in its entirety before sending the request.
The most effective recommendation are ones that are positive but also detailed and specific. This means if you took my class, but we did not ever have a conversation during the course, I am probably not the right choice to serve as your reference or write you a letter of recommendation. I will write as many honest, specific, positive, and professional things as I possibly can based on what I know of you and your work but you should keep in mind whether I, from personal experience with you, know enough about you to write a detailed letter that has specific examples. Letters that simply say "this person got a good grade in course X" (for example) can actually do more harm than good. On surveys, if I don't have enough information to answer a question, I must leave it blank.
If you feel I may be the right person to write you a letter or serve as your reference, this is what I need from you.
First and foremost, I need sufficient notice. I get many requests of this sort and so I need at least four weeks of lead time in order to be able to produce a good letter for you.
When you contact me, the email needs to include the following important pieces of information.
A description of each program you are applying to and the corresponding deadlines.
A copy of your resume, unofficial transcript, and any other documents you plan to submit with the application, for instance personal statements, etc. Rough drafts are sufficient.
A description of how I will need to submit my letter/reference. Will I receive an email? Do I need to upload it at a particular site?
Finally, I will want to have a brief (~15 minute) in person meeting with you to discuss your resume, your goals, etc. to aid in my recommendation. Please include in your email a description of your availability so we can find a time to meet.