letter of recommendation for a research student

Sample Graduate School Recommendation by a Professor

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The success of your graduate school application relies on the quality of the recommendation letters professors write on your behalf. What goes into a helpful recommendation letter? Check out the sample letter of recommendation written by a professor. What makes it work?

An Effective Recommendation Letter for Graduate School 

• Explains how the professor knows the student. The professor speaks to the student’s abilities in several contexts rather than just in class.
• Is detailed.
• Supports statements with specific examples.
• Compares a student to her peers and the letter explains exactly what makes the student stand out.
• Describes a student's capacities in specific ways rather than simply noting that she is an excellent student prepared for grad school.

Below is the body of an effective recommendation letter, written by a professor.

To: Graduate Admissions Committee

It is my pleasure to write on behalf of Jane Student, who is applying to the Ph.D. program in Research Psychology at Major University. I have interacted with Jane in several contexts: as a student, as a teaching assistant, and as a thesis mentee.

I first met Jane in 2008, when she enrolled in my introductory Psychology class. Jane immediately stood out from the crowd, even as a first-semester freshman. Just a few months out of high school, Jane demonstrated characteristics commonly held by the best college students. She was attentive in class, prepared, submitted well-written and thoughtful assignments, and participated in meaningful ways, such as by debating other students. Throughout, Jane modeled critical thinking skills. Needless to say, Jane earned one of five A’s awarded in that class of 75 students. Since her first semester in college Jane has enrolled in six of my classes. She demonstrated similar competencies, and her skills grew with each semester. Most striking is her ability to tackle challenging material with enthusiasm and endurance. I teach a required course in Statistics that, as rumor has it, most students dread. Students’ fears of statistics are legendary across institutions, but Jane wasn’t fazed. As usual, she was prepared for class, completed all assignments, and attended help sessions conducted by my teaching assistant . My teaching assistant reported that Jane seemed to learn concepts quickly, learning how to solve problems well before the other students. When placed in group work sessions, Jane easily adopted a leadership role, helping her peers learn how to solve problems on their own. It was these competencies that led me to offer Jane a position as a teaching assistant for my statistics class.

As a teaching assistant, Jane strengthened many of the skills I have articulated. In this position, Jane held review sessions and offered out-of-class assistance to students. She also lectured in class several times during the semester. Her first lecture was a bit shaky. She clearly knew the concepts but had difficulty keeping pace with PowerPoint slides. When she abandoned the slides and worked off the blackboard, she improved. She was able to answer students questions and the two that she couldn’t answer, she admitted to and said she’d get back to them. As a first lecture, she was very good. Most important to a career in academics, is that she improved in subsequent lectures. Leadership, humility, the ability to see areas in need of improvement, and the willingness to do the work needed to improve – these are all characteristics we value in academia.

Most important to a career in academics is research competence. As I have explained, Jane has an excellent grasp of statistics and other skills critical to a successful career in research, such as tenacity and excellent problem solving and critical thinking skills. As mentor of her senior thesis, I witnessed Jane in her first independent research efforts. Similar to other students, Jane struggled with finding an appropriate topic. Unlike other students, she conducted mini literature reviews on potential topics and discussed her ideas with a sophistication that is unusual for undergraduates. After methodical study, she chose a topic that fits her academic goals. Jane’s project examined [X]. Her project earned a department award, university award, and was presented as a paper at a regional psychology association.

In closing, I believe that Jane student has the capacity to excel at X and in a career as a research psychologist. She is one of a small handful of student that I have encountered in my 16 years teaching undergraduates that has this ability. Please do not hesitate to contact me with further questions.

Why This Letter Is Effective

• It is written by a professor who has extensive experience with the applicant .
• The professor describes several aspects of the student's competence.
• It describes how the student has grown and developed her skills.

What does this mean for you as a potential applicant to grad school ? Work to foster close, multidimensional relationships with faculty. Develop good relationships with several faculty because one professor often cannot comment on all of your strengths. Good graduate school letters of recommendation are built over time. Take that time to get to know professors and for them to get to know you.

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Writing an Effective & Supportive Recommendation Letter

Sarvenaz sarabipour.

1 Institute for Computational Medicine and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States

Sarah J. Hainer

2 Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States

Emily Furlong

3 Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom

Nafisa M. Jadavji

4 Department of Biomedical Sciences, Midwestern University, Glendale, United States

5 Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Canada

Charlotte M. de Winde

6 MRC Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology, University College London, London, United Kingdom

7 Department of Molecular Cell Biology & Immunology, Amsterdam UMC Locatie VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Natalia Bielczyk

8 Welcome Solutions, Nijmegen, the Netherlands

9 Stichting Solaris Onderzoek en Ontwikkeling, Nijmegen, the Netherlands

Aparna P. Shah

10 The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States

Author Contributions

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 candidate’s abilities. In this Words of Advice, we provide guidance to researchers on composing constructive and supportive recommendation letters, including tips for structuring and providing specific and effective examples, while maintaining a balance in language and avoiding potential biases.

Introduction

A letter of recommendation or a reference letter is a statement of support for a student or an early-career researcher (ECR; a non-tenured scientist who may be a research trainee, postdoctoral fellow, laboratory technician, or junior faculty colleague) who is a candidate for future employment, promotion, education, or funding opportunities. Letters of recommendation are commonly requested at different stages of an academic research career and sometimes for transitioning to a non-academic career. Candidates need to request letters early on and prepare relevant information for the individual who is approached for recommendation [ 1 , 2 ]. Writing recommendation letters in support of ECRs for career development opportunities is an important task undertaken frequently by academics. ECRs can also serve as mentors during their training period and may be asked to write letters for their mentees. This offers the ECRs an excellent opportunity to gain experience in drafting these important documents, but may present a particular challenge for individuals with little experience. In general, a letter of recommendation should present a well-documented evaluation and provide sufficient evidence and information about an individual to assist a person or a selection committee in making their decision on an application [ 1 ]. Specifically, the letter should address the purpose for which it is written (which is generally to provide support of the candidate’s application and recommendation for the opportunity) and describe key candidate qualities, the significance of the work performed, the candidate’s other accomplishments and the mentor’s confidence in the candidate’s abilities. It should be written in clear and unbiased language. While a poorly written letter may not result in loss of the opportunity for the candidate, a well-written one can help an application stand out from the others, thus well-enhancing the candidate’s chances for the opportunity.

Letter readers at review, funding, admissions, hiring and promotion committees need to examine the letter objectively with a keenness for information on the quality of the candidate’s work and perspective on their scientific character [ 6 ]. However well-intentioned, letters can fall short of providing a positive, effective, and supportive document [ 1 , 3 – 5 ]. To prevent this, it is important to make every letter personal; thus, writing letters requires time and careful consideration. This article draws from our collective experiences as ECRs and the literature to highlight best practices and key elements for those asked to provide recommendation letters for their colleagues, students, or researchers who have studied or trained in their classroom or research laboratory. We hope that these guidelines will be helpful for letter writers to provide an overall picture of the candidate’s capabilities, potential and professional promise.

Decide on whether to write the letter

Before you start, it is important to evaluate your relationship with the candidate and ability to assess their skills and abilities honestly. Consider how well and in what context you know the person, as well as whether you can be supportive of their application [ 7 ]. Examine the description of the opportunity for which the letter is being requested ( Figure 1 ). Often you will receive a request by a student or a researcher whom you know very well and have interacted with in different settings – in and out of the classroom, your laboratory or that of a colleague, or within your department – and whose performance you find to be consistently satisfactory or excellent. Sometimes a mentee may request a recommendation letter when still employed or working with you, their research advisor. This can come as an unpleasant surprise if you are unaware that the trainee was seeking other opportunities (for instance, if they haven’t been employed with you for long, or have just embarked on a new project). While the mentee should be transparent about their goals and searching for opportunities, you should as a mentor offer to provide the letter for your mentee (see Table 1 ).

First, it is important to establish whether you are equipped to write a strong letter of support. If not, it is best to have a candid conversation with the applicant and discuss alternative options or opportunities. If you are in a position to write a strong letter of support, first acquire information regarding the application and the candidate, draft a letter in advance (see Box 1 ) and submit the letter on time. When drafting the letter, incorporate specific examples, avoid biases, and discuss the letter with the candidate (see Tables 1 – 2 for specific examples). After submission, store a digital copy for potential future use for the same candidate.

Key do’s and don’ts when being asked to write a letter of recommendation

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.

Examine the application requirements

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.

Acquire candidate information and discuss letter content

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.

Draft the letter early and maintain a copy

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.

Structure your letter

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

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.

Describe relevant candidate qualities with specific examples and without overhyping

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 ).

Recommendations for Letter Writers

• Consider characteristics that excite & motivate this candidate.
• Include qualities that you remember most about the candidate.
• Detail their unusual competence, talent, mentorship, teaching or leadership abilities.
• Explain the candidate’s disappointments or failures & the way they reacted & overcame.
• Discuss if they demonstrated a willingness to take intellectual risks beyond the normal research & classroom experience.
• Ensure that you have knowledge of the institution that the candidate is applying for.
• Consider what makes you believe this particular opportunity is a good match for this candidate.
• Consider how they might fit into the institution’s community & grow from their experience.
• Describe their personality & social skills.
• Discuss how the candidate interacts with teachers & peers.
• Use ethical principles, positive & inclusive language within the letter.
• Do not list facts & details, every paper, or discovery of the candidate’s career.
• Only mention unusual family or community circumstances after consulting the candidate.
• A thoughtful letter from a respective colleague with a sense of perspective can be quite valuable.
• Each letter takes time & effort, take it seriously.

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.

Be careful about what you leave out of the letter

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”.

Use ethical principles, positive and inclusive language within the letter

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.

Revise and submit on time

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.

Conclusions

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.

Acknowledgements

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.

Abbreviations:

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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Letter of Recommendation for PhD: Sample, Examples & PDFs

• Last Updated On August 14, 2024
• Published In General

Did you know that by 2030, over 8,00,000 people in the US will get their doctorates? That’s a lot of competition! To stand out, you need more than just strong grades. Letters of recommendation offer a crucial personal perspective on your research abilities.

Table of Content

These letters, written by professors or supervisors, highlight your potential and confirm your application’s claims. Admissions committees rely on them to make informed decisions.

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This guide will help you create an influential letter of recommendation for a PhD that opens doors and advances your academic journey. Dive in!

Key Highlights

Here is a quick overview of everything you will learn in greater detail in this blog on the letter of recommendation for a PhD program.

What is a Letter of Recommendation for a PhD Program?

A Letter of Recommendation, or LOR, is a crucial component of your PhD application. It provides valuable insights into your academic brilliance, personal character, and research potential from a trusted source, such as a professor or employer. 

Many universities in the United States, such as Harvard University and Stanford University , mandate the submission of two to three academic Letters of Recommendation for PhD applicants. 

Crafting a compelling LOR can be challenging, which makes having a sample LOR an invaluable resource. By studying a well-structured sample, you can effectively highlight your strengths and experiences, impressing the admissions committee.

What is the Need for Letter of Recommendation for a PhD Student?

A letter of recommendation is crucial for PhD students because it offers a detailed look at your academic skills, research potential, and personal qualities from someone who knows you well. 

Universities like Stanford require three letters of recommendation for their PhD programs. Admissions committees use these letters to understand your past achievements, work ethic, and fit for advanced study. 

LOR’s often highlight your strengths, accomplishments, and specific contributions to research projects. This outside perspective helps set you apart in a competitive selection process, showing you have the skills, dedication, and curiosity needed for the program.

Whom Should You Ask for a Letter of Recommendation for a PhD?

Selecting the right recommender is critical in crafting a compelling letter of recommendation for a PhD. Your recommender should be a determined advocate capable of providing an unbiased assessment. 

Given that 25% of the US’s one million foreign student population is Indian, competition is fierce. Unlike self-authored documents, an LOR offers an external perspective exclusively shaped by the recommender’s observations. This unique viewpoint is invaluable. 

Your PhD recommender should be someone who:

• Has a good rapport with you.
• Understand your strengths, weaknesses, and potential.
• Has witnessed your academic and professional growth.
• Is familiar with your research interests.
• Believes in your research goals.

2 Types of Letter of Recommendation for a PhD Program

Securing admission to a prestigious PhD program like MIT’s is highly competitive. A critical factor in your application is the strength of your Letters of Recommendation (LORs). Universities like MIT often require three LORs, with a strong preference for academic references who can testify to your research potential.

Of course, you might be eager to check out a sample letter of recommendation for a PhD. However, you first need to understand the types of LORs, listed below.

1. Academic LOR

An academic LOR is typically penned by a professor or academic advisor who can confirm your intellectual abilities and scholarly potential. 

A letter of recommendation for a PhD dives deeper into your research aptitude, critical thinking skills, and independent research capabilities. This type of recommendation emphasises your readiness for doctoral-level research.

2. Professional LOR

A professional LOR is typically authored by a supervisor or manager from your workplace. A letter of recommendation for a PhD from an employer should emphasise your research contributions, problem-solving abilities, and potential for independent scholarly work. 

It should demonstrate how your practical experience has equipped you with the foundation to excel in doctoral studies.

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Letter of recommendation for phd sample: structure.

When constructing a compelling letter of recommendation for a PhD program, academic and professional recommendations are typically the most sought-after types. These letters are the unsung heroes of your application, providing crucial external validation of your qualifications.

Here’s a quick overview of a Letter of Recommendation (LOR) sample structure.

Letter of Recommendation for PhD Sample: Format

While you’re likely engaged in GRE preparation and other PhD application requirements, don’t forget to notice the critical role of a strong letter of recommendation for a PhD. This document can significantly influence your admission chances, making crafting a compelling and well-structured LOR essential.

Here is the format you need to follow for your sample letter of recommendation for PhD.

Letter of Recommendation for PhD Sample

A sample letter of recommendation for a PhD program can provide valuable guidance in crafting a compelling recommendation. However, it’s essential to remember that these samples are for illustrative purposes only and should not be copied directly. 

Below, you’ll find sample LORs for the two primary types of recommendations: academic and professional. These examples demonstrate how your professors or supervisors can effectively articulate your qualifications for doctoral studies.

Academic Letter Of Recommendation for a PhD: Example

DISCLAIMER: The name “Rose Tennent” is used in this sample LOR for illustrative purposes only. 

Dr. [Full Name]

Professor of [Department]

[University Name]

[University Address]

[City, State ZIP Code]

[Email Address]

[Phone Number]

I am delighted to write this letter of recommendation for Rose Tennent, who has been an exemplary student in my [Course Name] class at the [College/University Name]. I have had the privilege of teaching Rose for the past [Mention Years], during which time she has consistently impressed me with her intellectual curiosity, dedication, and exceptional academic abilities. Rose has consistently demonstrated a profound understanding of [Subject Area] concepts and theories. Her ability to analyse complex problems, develop innovative solutions, and articulate her ideas clearly is exceptional. 

For instance, in a class project on [Project Topic], Rose took the initiative to explore [Specific Aspect of Project] in depth. Her research was meticulous, and her findings were presented clearly and precisely. Beyond her academic achievements, Rose has shown a remarkable aptitude for [Specific Skill, e.g., data analysis, research methodology]. Her proficiency in [Software or Tool] was evident in her coursework, where she produced exceptional results. Her ability to [Specific Skill Application] significantly enhanced her work’s quality and demonstrated her research potential.

Rose’s dedication to her studies is unparalleled. She consistently sought opportunities to challenge herself inside and outside the classroom. She participated actively in class discussions, offering insightful perspectives and stimulating intellectual debate. Her enthusiasm for learning is contagious, and she can inspire and motivate her peers.

Furthermore, Rose has demonstrated exceptional research potential. As a research assistant on my project, [Project Title], she significantly contributed to data collection, analysis, and interpretation. Her attention to detail and strong analytical skills allowed her to identify patterns and trends that were instrumental in advancing our research. Rose is also a highly collaborative and supportive classmate. She is always willing to help her peers and has a strong sense of teamwork. Her positive attitude and infectious enthusiasm create a supportive learning environment for everyone.

In conclusion, Rose Tennent is an exceptional student with a bright future. Her intellectual abilities, strong work ethic, and collaborative spirit make her an ideal candidate for a PhD program. I wholeheartedly recommend her for admission to your program and am confident she will significantly contribute to your academic community. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.

[Full Name]

Professional Letter Of Recommendation for a PhD: Example

DISCLAIMER: The name “John Smith” is used in this sample LOR for illustrative purposes only. 

Research Scientist

[Company Name]

[Company Address]

I am delighted to write this letter of recommendation in solid support of John Smith, who has been an exceptional research team member at [Company Name] for the past three years. During this time, I have had the pleasure of directly supervising John Smith and witnessing firsthand his remarkable intellectual abilities, unwavering dedication, and exceptional problem-solving skills.

John Smith has consistently exceeded expectations in his role as a research scientist. His contributions to our team have been invaluable, particularly in [specific research area]. For instance, his pivotal role in the [project name] initiative was instrumental in achieving [specific outcome]. John Smith demonstrated a deep understanding of the complex challenges associated with this project and developed innovative solutions that significantly advanced our research goals.

One of John Smith’s most impressive qualities is his ability to blend theoretical knowledge with practical application seamlessly. His work on [specific project or task] is a prime example. By [briefly describing particular actions taken], John Smith could [quantifiable result]. This achievement highlights his exceptional analytical skills and ability to translate complex scientific concepts into tangible outcomes.

Beyond his technical expertise, John Smith possesses exceptional interpersonal and communication skills. He is a collaborative team player who readily shares his knowledge and insights with colleagues. His ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and concisely has been invaluable in internal and external presentations. John Smith has also taken on leadership roles within the team, mentoring junior researchers and fostering a positive and productive work environment.

John Smith’s enthusiasm for research and relentless pursuit of knowledge are truly inspiring. He is constantly seeking out new challenges and opportunities for growth. For example, [describe a specific instance of initiative or self-directed learning]. This proactive approach to his work demonstrates his intellectual curiosity and commitment to professional development.

I am confident that John Smith possesses the intellectual capacity, technical skills, and personal qualities necessary to excel in a PhD program. His strong foundation in [specific field] and his passion for research make him an ideal candidate for advanced studies. I wholeheartedly recommend John Smith for admission to your program, and he will be a valuable asset to your research community. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information.

Struggling with your LOR? Join LeapScholar’s live events now! Network with other students and get expert advice on how to create a winning recommendation letter.

Vocabulary for Writing a Letter of Recommendation for a PhD Program

A compelling Letter of Recommendation (LOR) requires proper structure and precise language. The words used can profoundly influence the admissions committee’s perception of you. 

Below, you’ll find a selection of vocabulary to enhance your LOR’s impact. 

Remember, these words are merely suggestions to complement your writing, and thoughtful use will improve your LOR’s professionalism and appeal.

Letter of Recommendation for a PhD Program: Guidelines for Top Universities

When universities offer PhD programs, they want to pick candidates who can work well with mentors and achieve great results. They expect you to be dedicated and focused on your chosen field. 

Letters of recommendation are crucial in helping them find the right fit. You will find the requirements for a letter of recommendation for a PhD from the famous institutions listed below.

8 Tips to Write A Better Letter of Recommendation for a PhD Program

Are you aspiring to join the ranks of 1.3 million Indian students pursuing higher education, such as PhDs abroad ? Then, crafting exceptional LORs is crucial. 

This section will highlight typical letter of recommendation for a PhD program mistakes to avoid. A little motivation: The average monthly salary for a research scientist in the US and UK is INR 1.2Cr ($144K) and INR 55.8L (£52K). 

Now, please find below the essential tips for writing a compelling letter of recommendation for a PhD program.

• Strategic Recommender Selection: Carefully choose recommenders who align with your PhD program’s requirements and can effectively highlight your strengths.
• Open Communication: Maintain regular contact with your recommenders, sharing your research goals and achievements to provide them with plenty of information.
• Diverse Perspectives: Encourage each recommender to focus on different aspects of your qualifications to create a well-rounded picture.
• Timely Submission: To avoid last-minute stress, ensure that online recommendation forms are submitted well in advance of the application deadline.
• Authenticity and Accuracy: Emphasise the importance of honest and detailed information in the LOR, avoiding exaggeration or false claims.
• Clear Relationship: The recommender’s relationship with you should be established within the letter.
• Highlight Strengths: The LOR should effectively showcase your unique qualities, abilities, and potential for doctoral research.
• Avoid Generic Templates: Encourage recommenders to write personalised letters that avoid generic or formulaic language.

To Conclude

Imagine yourself studying for a PhD at prestigious institutions like Stanford University or Oxford University , followed by a fulfilling career as a research scientist earning competitive salaries—up to INR 1.2Cr ($144K) and INR 55.8L (£52K) per year, respectively. 

Achieving this dream begins with a strong Letter of Recommendation for a PhD program. Our expert counsellors at Leap Scholar are dedicated to helping you craft a standout LOR and guiding you through the entire admissions process. Let us help you realise your potential.

Take the first step towards your ideal future. Book a consultation now .

Also Read: Study PhD Abroad for Indian Students

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. what is a letter of recommendation for a phd.

A. A Letter of Recommendation for a PhD is a critical document in your application process. It provides insights into your academic brilliance, personal character, and research potential from a trusted source, such as a professor or employer. This letter helps admissions committees evaluate your readiness and fit for a doctoral program.

Q. Who should I ask to craft a Letter of Recommendation for my PhD application?

A. It’s essential to choose recommenders who know you well and can confirm your abilities. Ideally, this would be a professor familiar with your academic performance or a supervisor who understands your professional contributions. They should be able to provide a detailed assessment of your strengths, achievements, and potential for research.

Q. How many Letters of Recommendation do I need for a PhD application?

A. Most universities require two to three letters of recommendation for PhD applications. These letters should come from individuals who can attest to different aspects of your abilities and potential, ensuring a well-rounded view of your qualifications.

Q. What are the types of Letters of Recommendation for PhD programs?

A. There are two primary types of LORs: Academic and Professional. An Academic LOR is written by a faculty member who can highlight your intellectual abilities and research potential. A Professional LOR, on the other hand, is provided by an employer or supervisor who can discuss your skills and contributions in a workplace setting.

Q. How long should a Letter of Recommendation for a PhD be?

A. A typical LOR should be 400-500 words, spanning one to two pages. It should provide a comprehensive view of your qualifications, achievements, and potential without being overly verbose or too brief.

Q. How does a Letter of Recommendation for PhD admission impact my application?

A. A Letter of Recommendation for PhD admission is crucial because it provides an external perspective on your abilities, character, and potential as a researcher.  This letter helps the admissions committee understand your readiness for a doctoral program by highlighting your academic achievements and personal qualities, offering insights beyond what grades and test scores can convey.

Q. How can a sample LOR help me write my recommendation?

A. A sample LOR can provide a useful template or guide, showing how to structure the letter and what elements to include. It helps you understand how to effectively highlight your strengths and tailor the letter to the specific program you’re applying to.

Q. How should I format a Letter of Recommendation for a PhD?

A. Use Times New Roman font, size 10 to 12, with 1-inch margins. The letter should be single-spaced with double spaces between paragraphs, left-aligned, and include the recommender’s signature and contact information.

Q. What common mistakes should be avoided in a Letter of Recommendation for a PhD?

A. Avoid generic or vague language, unclear descriptions of your relationship with the recommender, and late submissions. Ensure the letter is honest and detailed and highlights your strengths and unique qualities.

Q. Can a Letter of Recommendation for a PhD impact my application?

A. Absolutely. A strong LOR can significantly influence the admissions committee by providing validation of your academic and research capabilities. It adds a personal dimension to your application that grades and test scores alone cannot convey.

Q. What should I include in a Letter of Recommendation for a PhD application?

A. When writing a Letter of Recommendation for a PhD application, include details about your relationship with the applicant, their academic and research achievements, and specific examples of their skills and contributions.  The letter should also discuss the applicant’s potential for success in a doctoral program, and why they are a strong candidate for the PhD program they are applying to.

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• Applying to graduate school

How (and Who) to Ask For a Letter of Recommendation

Published on October 30, 2020 by Lauren Thomas . Revised on June 1, 2023.

Letters of recommendation often make or break a graduate school application . It’s important to think carefully about who to ask and how to do it.

Ideally, you should approach former supervisors who know you and your work well, and can advise you. Different programs require different types of recommendation letters, but the process of requesting them is similar.

Follow these five steps to guarantee a great recommendation, including program-specific tips and email examples.

Table of contents

Step 1: choose who to ask, step 2: reach out and request a meeting, step 3: ask for a letter of recommendation, step 4: share your resume and other materials, step 5: remind your recommenders of upcoming deadlines, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about recommendation letters.

Your first step is to decide who you’ll ask to write a letter for you. Ideally, this should be someone who you worked with outside of just the classroom context—for example, a former professor who supervised your research.

It’s important to ask someone who knows you well, even if they are less well known than other professors at your institution. Graduate admissions committees want to get a good sense of your ability to perform well in their program, and this is difficult to accomplish if your recommender only knows you as a face in the crowd.

Who you should ask also strongly depends on the type of program that you’re applying to. Different programs prefer different qualities in their admitted students, and thus weigh types of recommenders differently. Take a look at the program-specific tips below.

For research programs (MPhil, DPhil, PhD , Research Master’s), graduate admissions committees are looking for evidence of your potential as a future researcher.

Since this is tricky to assess from test scores and transcripts, letters of recommendation are often the most important part of a graduate research program application.

Your letter should thus be from someone who can speak to your skills as a researcher. This could be, for example, a professor who supervised you on an independent research project, or the head of a lab that you worked in as an undergraduate.

If you worked as a full-time research or lab assistant after undergrad, ask your managers, who are usually full-time researchers themselves and therefore experts on what makes a good researcher.

Unlike most graduate programs, business schools are less interested in your undergraduate academic performance. Instead, they try to assess your potential to succeed in the workplace, particularly in managerial or leadership positions. The same applies to public policy and other professional programs.

Ideally, your letters of recommendation should come from current supervisors at your work. If this isn’t possible, you should ask coworkers who are senior to you and know your work well.

Although business schools normally prefer candidates with several years of experience, current undergraduates sometimes apply as well. In this case, you should ask internship supervisors or—as a last resort—professors who know you well.

Medical schools look for evidence that you are academically prepared for the study of medicine and that your character is well-suited to becoming a doctor. Admissions committees in medicine prefer academic references, but they also require a few extra steps.

Firstly, while graduate programs usually require two or three recommendation letters, medical schools often ask for more—you may have to submit up to six letters, some of which should be from former professors in the natural sciences.

In addition, many schools recommend that you submit a letter from the premedical advisory committee at your undergraduate institution, which summarizes your overall suitability for medical school. Be aware that deadlines for materials for these letters are very early—often the spring of the year before you are due to start medical school.

Finally, if you’ve worked on any research projects, you should submit a letter from your supervisor. Medical schools view research competence as a plus.

Law school letters of recommendation should mostly be from former professors or other academic supervisors.

You should only use non-academic recommenders if they can directly speak to your suitability to study law—for example, if you regularly work with lawyers, or if your job involves skills like critical reading or research that are relevant to legal practice.

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The next step is to get in contact with your potential recommender. If you haven’t talked to them in a while, begin your email with a quick reminder to jog their memory. Be friendly, direct, and concise.

If possible, it’s best to plan a meeting to discuss your request. However, if this isn’t practical (for example, if you’ve moved far away from your undergrad institution), you can skip this step and head straight to the third.

Hi Professor Smith!

I hope that everything is going well with you and that you’re still enjoying teaching your seminar on the post World War II international order. I thoroughly enjoyed taking it with you last year as a junior.

I’m currently thinking about what I want to do next year, which will hopefully involve graduate work in political science, and was hoping to meet with you to discuss your thoughts on graduate school. Do you have any time over the next few weeks to meet?

Make your request during your meeting or, if necessary, via email. Let them know what sort of programs you are applying to and when the deadlines are. Make sure to give your recommenders plenty of time!

Instead of just asking for a recommendation letter, specifically ask if they can write you a strong recommendation . This allows your recommender an “out”—for example, if they don’t feel they know you well enough. A bad or even lukewarm recommendation is the kiss of death for any application, so it’s important to ensure your letters will be positive!

If they say they can’t give you a strong recommendation, don’t panic. This gives you the opportunity to ask someone else who can provide you a better recommendation.

Hi Professor Jones!

How are you? I hope everything is going well and you’re still teaching Introduction to Labor Economics to eager students!

I’ve been out of school for a year now, working as a full-time research assistant in New York City. Come this fall, I’m hoping to apply to a few programs for graduate school, mostly doctoral programs in Economics.

Since I took two economics classes with you (Introduction to Labor Economics in Spring 2018 and Industrial Organization in Fall 2019), I was hoping that you might agree to serve as a letter writer for my graduate program. I wanted to highlight my work in labor economics, since that’s what I’m hoping to study in graduate school. Also, since I loved your classes, I thought you might be a good person to ask!

The letters of recommendation would be due to each individual program’s website in December. I understand, of course, if you’re too busy this summer or if you don’t feel that you would be the best fit to write a letter. My goal is simply to paint as complete a picture as possible of my undergrad career at Western. If you’d like, we can also discuss this on the phone.

I look forward to hearing back from you!

You should send your resume or CV to your recommenders, along with any other material that might jog their memory or aid in their recommendation.

For instance, you may want to send along your statement of purpose or writing sample if one is requested in your application. Admission committees are looking for a cohesive story that the letters of recommendation, personal statement , and CV work together to tell.

You should also check whether the school provides any prompts or guidelines for recommenders. Many programs want your recommenders to comment on your potential to serve in the specific role the graduate program prepares you for. See the program-specific tips below.

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Finally, you should send an email to your recommenders a few weeks before the letters are due, reminding them of the deadline and asking if there is anything else you can send them to assist in writing the letter.

If any materials are late, programs will often reject your entire application, so it is imperative that your recommenders get their letters in on time. However, you should also keep in mind that your letter writers are probably quite busy, so don’t send too many reminders!

Dear Professor Jones,

Hope the semester is going well! Thank you again for agreeing to serve as my recommender. I just wanted to send you a quick reminder that recommendations for Program X, Y, and Z are due in two weeks, on December 15. Please let me know if you need anything else from me, and thank you again!

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Choose people who know your work well and can speak to your ability to succeed in the program that you are applying to.

Remember, it is far more important to choose someone who knows you well than someone well-known. You may have taken classes with more prominent professors, but if they haven’t worked closely with you, they probably can’t write you a strong letter.

This depends on the program that you are applying for. Generally, for professional programs like business and policy school, you should ask managers who can speak to your future leadership potential and ability to succeed in your chosen career path.

However, in other graduate programs, you should mostly ask your former professors or research supervisors to write your recommendation letters , unless you have worked in a job that corresponds closely with your chosen field (e.g., as a full-time research assistant).

It’s best to ask in person if possible, so first reach out and request a meeting to discuss your graduate school plans.

Let the potential recommender know which programs you’re applying to, and ask if they feel they can provide a strong letter of recommendation . A lukewarm recommendation can be the kiss of death for an application, so make sure your letter writers are enthusiastic about recommending you and your work!

Always remember to remain polite. Your recommenders are doing you a favor by taking the time to write a letter in support of your graduate school goals.

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Recommendation Letters

Tips for writing letters of recommendation.

As a research mentor who works closely with students in the lab, you will likely be asked to write recommendation letters for your student for research fellowships. Below are some tips for writing good letters.

1. Be sure that the student has given you enough information about the program or fellowship for which the letter is requested. Also make sure that you will have enough time to write the letter before the deadline. It is the student’s responsibility to give you all the information you need and enough time – a few weeks is best. If they do not, you may decline to write the letter.

2. If the letter is confidential, be sure that the student has given you a preaddressed envelope that will go directly to the program and not to the student and that they have signed a waiver indicating that they will not have access to the letter or its contents.

3. If you do not think that you can write a strong or positive letter for the student because you don’t know them well enough, are not familiar with their strengths in the area specified by the program, or you do not think that they are a good fit for the program, it is a good idea to tell the student before you agree to write the letter. You may want to meet with the student to talk about the program, find out why they are applying and what you can say in support of their application. A weak or neutral letter is often worse than no letter at all. If you feel that you cannot write a good letter it may be better for the student to ask someone else.

4. Begin the letter by stating that you are recommending student X for the Y Fellowship. Then write a sentence or two indicating how long and in what connection you have known the student.

5. Direct your comments about the student to the specific interests of the program or fellowship to which they are applying. Is it purely research or are they also looking for leadership or community service activities?

6. It is a good idea to provide specific examples of the student’s qualifications for the program rather than to list their accomplishments as they appear on the student’s resume. The personal story can be more compelling than a list.

7. If you think that the student has some very positive attributes but at the same time has a problem, it is VERY helpful to the selection committee if you mention the problem or if you do not want to put confidential information in a letter, you may say that you would be willing to discuss the student in more detail by phone.

8. It is useful to the application review committee for you to discuss where you would rank this student among other students with whom you have worked. Is this student in the top 10% of students you have mentored in the lab? If you are just getting started as a mentor and recommendation letter writer, then obviously this would not be possible for you to do.

9. For some programs it is better for the student to have a letter that is signed by the lab PI or a faculty member. In this case, you may be asked by your PI to write the letter since you are working more directly with the student and can write in more detail about their commitment and abilities in the lab. Some PI’s will then ask you to co-sign the letter with them. Alternatively, the PI may ask you to write a summary of the student’s progress in the lab, but prefer to write their own letter.

10. If you are asked to write letters for a student for more than one program, make sure that the letter is adapted to reflect the specific focus of the program. And always double check to make sure that the heading, greeting and first sentence are correct for the new letter. Unfortunately, it is a common mistake to send a letter to a fellowship committee without making the editorial changes to address the committee of the new program.

11. You may be asked to write letters for more than one student for the same program; PRISE is a good example. Since the same reviewers will read these letters, it is important to make each letter as individual and personal as possible.

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• CAREER COLUMN
• 20 July 2020

Writing the perfect recommendation letter

Andy Tay is a freelance writer based in Singapore.

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Undergraduates need them for graduate-school applications; PhD students and postdocs use them to apply for fellowships and jobs; senior scientists often have to have them to apply for awards and promotions. But writing an effective and personal recommendation letter can be time-consuming, especially for academics who must juggle grant applications, manuscripts, teaching and student supervision. And some might struggle to say the right things to support a former employee or student in their career move, while sounding original and unique.

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Nature 584 , 158 (2020)

doi: https://doi.org/10.1038/d41586-020-02186-8

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5 Free Templates: Recommendation Letter for a Student

By Status.net Editorial Team on August 21, 2023 — 8 minutes to read

When you’re asked to write a recommendation letter for a student, it’s a great opportunity to help them stand out and secure their future. Crafting an effective letter might feel overwhelming but using templates can simplify the process, so by starting with a strong template, you can ensure that the student’s best qualities are showcased, and your letter will be powerful and persuasive.

A good recommendation letter template should highlight the student’s achievements, skills, and personality. For instance, you might include a brief story that demonstrates the student’s leadership abilities or academic accomplishments. Moreover, it’s essential to tailor the letter to the specific scholarship, college, or job the student is applying for. This will make your letter more targeted and relevant to the decision-makers.

Essential Elements of a Good Recommendation Letter

1. student’s strengths.

When writing a recommendation letter for a student, focus on their strengths. This is your chance to highlight what sets them apart from other applicants. Describe their academic prowess, passion for their chosen field, or how they excel in extracurricular activities. Mention the student’s dedication, motivation, work ethic, and the positive traits which can help them succeed in their program or future endeavors.

2. Specific Examples

Support your claims with specific examples. Instead of just praising the student, provide concrete situations that demonstrate their qualities and strengths. For instance, mention a project they successfully completed or their leadership role in a group assignment. By using real-life instances, you make your claim more credible and allow the recipient to understand what the student is capable of.

3. Endorsement of Skills

In your letter, endorse the student’s skills relevant to their target program or job. If they are applying for an engineering program, focus on their problem-solving skills, technical aptitude, and innovative thinking. If it is for a liberal arts program, emphasize their writing, analytical, and communication skills. Tailor the recommendation according to the specific field, showing how the student’s abilities match the demands of the program or job they are targeting.

Template 1: Academic Recommendation Letter

When writing a recommendation letter for a student, start by mentioning your relationship with the student. For instance, describe how long you’ve known them and in what capacity (e.g., as their professor or mentor).

Here’s an example of an opening paragraph:

In the body of the letter, highlight the student’s strengths, academic achievements, and personal qualities that make them stand out. Be specific by providing examples or anecdotes. For instance, describe their research project, their performance in a challenging course, or their leadership in a school organization. Example:

Mention any traits or habits that could contribute to the student’s success in their desired program or university. These can include adaptability, resilience, collaboration, problem-solving skills, and more. Example:

Wrap up the letter by reiterating your strong endorsement and expressing confidence in the student’s ability to thrive in their chosen program or institution. Offer your contact information in case the recipient has any further questions. Example:

Template 2: Extracurricular Recommendation Letter

As you write a recommendation letter for a student’s extracurricular activities, keep in mind that the focus will be on their strengths, achievements, and involvement outside of the classroom. Here’s a template you can use as a starting point.

Paragraph 1: Introducing Relationship

Begin by introducing yourself and your role, then mention your relationship with the student, how long you have known them, and in what capacity. This sets the context for the reader.

Paragraph 2: Highlighting the Student’s Strengths and Achievements

In this paragraph, focus on the student’s specific achievements and strengths in the extracurricular activity. Provide examples if possible.

Paragraph 3: The Student’s Impact on Others

Describe how the student’s involvement in the extracurricular activity positively impacted others. This can include teammates, peers, or even the community as a whole.

Paragraph 4: Alignment of Their Skills with the Recipient’s Requirements

Show how the student’s strengths and experiences align with the recipient’s program, scholarship, or position. This connection will give the reader a clear understanding of why the student is a good fit.

Closing and Contact Information

End the letter by offering to provide further information and reiterate your strong recommendation. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further information or clarification. I am confident that [Student’s Name] is the perfect candidate for [Scholarship/Admission/Position], and I wholeheartedly endorse their application.

Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Role/Position] [Your Organization/Institution] [Your Email] [Your Phone Number]

Template 3: Academic Recommendation Letter

Dear [Admissions Committee],

I am writing this letter to recommend [Student Name] for admission to your esteemed institution. As [Student Name]’s [Teacher/Professor/Advisor], I have had the pleasure of working with [him/her] for [length of time] and have been impressed with [his/her] academic achievements, dedication, and work ethic.

[Student Name] has consistently demonstrated a passion for learning and has excelled in [subject areas]. [He/She] has a natural curiosity and is always eager to explore new ideas and concepts. [He/She] is a critical thinker, capable of analyzing complex problems and coming up with innovative solutions.

In addition to [his/her] academic achievements, [Student Name] has also been actively involved in [extracurricular activities]. [He/She] has shown strong leadership skills and has made a positive impact on [his/her] peers and the community.

I strongly recommend [Student Name] for admission to your institution. [He/She] has the potential to make significant contributions to your academic community and beyond.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Template 4: Academic Recommendation Letter

To Whom It May Concern,

I am writing this letter to recommend [Student Name] for admission to [Name of Institution]. As [his/her] [Teacher/Professor/Advisor], I have had the privilege of working with [him/her] for [length of time] and have been impressed with [his/her] academic achievements, dedication, and character.

[Student Name] is an exceptional student who has consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic, a thirst for knowledge, and a commitment to excellence. [He/She] has a natural curiosity and is always willing to go the extra mile to learn more and achieve more.

[Student Name] has also shown a remarkable ability to work collaboratively with others. [He/She] is a team player who is always willing to lend a helping hand and support [his/her] peers. [He/She] has also been actively involved in [extracurricular activities], where [he/she] has demonstrated strong leadership skills and made a positive impact on [his/her] community.

Template 5: Academic Recommendation Letter

I am writing to strongly recommend [Student Name] for admission to your institution. As [his/her] [Teacher/Professor/Advisor], I have had the pleasure of working with [him/her] for [length of time] and have been impressed with [his/her] academic achievements, leadership skills, and personal character.

[Student Name] is an outstanding student who has consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic, a passion for learning, and a commitment to excellence. [He/She] has excelled in [subject areas] and has shown a remarkable ability to think critically, analyze complex problems, and come up with innovative solutions.

In addition to [his/her] academic achievements, [Student Name] has also been actively involved in [extracurricular activities]. [He/She] has shown strong leadership skills and has made a positive impact on [his/her] peers and the community. [He/She] is a team player who is always willing to lend a helping hand and support others.

[Student Name] is also a person of high character. [He/She] is honest, responsible, and respectful, and has a strong sense of integrity. [He/She] is a role model for others and has earned the respect and admiration of [his/her] peers and teachers.

I have no doubt that [Student Name] will make significant contributions to your academic community and beyond. [He/She] is a talented, motivated, and dedicated individual who has the potential to achieve great things.

• 8 Templates: A Perfect Letter of Recommendation
• 6 Example Emails: How to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation
• 9 Examples: A Perfect Letter of Introduction
• 5 Effective Examples: How to Write a Two-Week Notice
• 12 Examples: A Perfect Resignation Letter [plus Templates]
• 10 Inspiring Examples: How To Write a Cover Letter

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Office of Undergraduate Research

Letters of recommendation.

Many research or funding programs will ask you to submit letters of recommendation as part of your application. At first glance, this sounds like a simple task, but there is advance preparation and steps that need to be followed in order to avoid missteps or burning bridges.

Letters of recommendation are an important component of an application. They allow selection committees to understand your strengths and weaknesses from another perspective, providing additional insight into your accomplishments, preparations, and experiences. A well-written recommendation from a mentor who can speak to your preparation, and the fit between the opportunity and your goals, can positively impact the outcome of your application.

The information outlined below and addressed in the workshop answers many of the common questions students ask with regard to letters of recommendation. Always review the instructions for the application you are preparing for specific guidelines.

Where to begin

The first step is to carefully review the criteria and parameters stated in the application. How many letters are required? Are there guidelines as to who should write your letters of recommendation? Is there a questionnaire that recommenders need to complete or specific questions they need to address in their letter? It is your responsibility, as the applicant, to read the guidelines carefully, and to ensure the people you ask to serve as recommenders fit the criteria and are aware of the guidelines.

Who should I ask for a letter of recommendation?

Consider the opportunity and determine who is best positioned to speak to your qualifications for that specific opportunity. You want to ask recommenders who know you well and who can write a thorough and meaningful letter that speaks to your qualifications and potential to contribute to the project you are joining, or to successfully complete the project you are proposing. They should be able to describe your work positively, provide detailed examples of how you have demonstrated the skills and attributes required for the opportunity you are seeking, and be able to favorably compare you with your peers.

In general, people who you may consider asking include:

• PI or research mentor
• Program mentor or advisor
• Someone who has overseen volunteer activities or leadership activities you’re a part of
• Supervisors from internships or jobs you’ve held

Letters of recommendation from family and friends are not appropriate.

For a student perspective on asking for recommendations, take a look at this student research blog post: Letters of Recommendation: Who I Asked and Why

How far in advance do I need to ask for letters?

Don’t wait until the last minute to ask for letters of recommendation. It’s preferable to give your recommenders at least a few weeks of lead time to craft a thoughtful, effective letter. Be respectful of your recommenders’ time; they have many competing obligations, and if you wait until the last minute to approach them they may not be able to accommodate your request.

How do I ask for a letter of recommendation?

Set up a meeting with potential recommenders to discuss the project proposal you’re developing or the opportunity you’re applying for. Reach out through email, providing general insight into the purpose of the meeting. The email templates give you an idea of how you can structure this email.

Dear Professor ____,

I hope this finds you well. I would like to set up a meeting with you to discuss ______.

Through our previous conversations and my participation in _________, I believe you’re aware of my goal to ______. I have sincerely appreciated your guidance and support as I have moved through my undergraduate career. Your course on _______ opened my eyes to so many possibilities, which has led me to _______. As you may remember, I have been active with ______ and completed _______ to build my skill set and further explore my interest in _____, which was sparked by your course.

Looking ahead to my next steps, I am preparing an application for ________ to ________. I would like to discuss my plans with you, as well as to ask if you would be willing to write a letter of recommendation in support of my application.

Are you available next week or the following week for a meeting to discuss this further? I am available Tuesday and Thursday mornings. I can adjust my schedule on other days to fit with your availability.

Thank you in advance for considering this request. I also wanted to extend an additional thank you for the support you’ve provided to me over the past _____ semesters. Your mentoring and confidence in me has had a positive impact on my academics, and I can’t thank you enough. I look forward to talking with you soon.

Sincerely, Jonathan Husky

Dear (Advisor/Mentor Name),

I hope you are doing well. I wanted to set up a meeting to talk about my future plans for ______, and ask if you will consider supporting my application with a recommendation letter.

Although I have only worked with you for a short amount of time, this experience has been much more impactful to my journey and personal growth than just a number of months could predict. Over this time, I have had the rare opportunity to contribute to _____--something I am wholeheartedly passionate about--while also learning many valuable skills from you and others. In particular, your strong exemplification of ______, _____, and _____abilities are qualities that I someday aim perfect and emulate in the same capacity. I truly feel that _____ opportunity has made me a more well-rounded, improved version of myself through the example and support that you have provided for me along the way. I sincerely value the relationship I have been able to develop with you as a mentor.

I really appreciate any time and consideration you are able to provide for this request. Please let me know if there is a particular day or time in the next couple of weeks that would work well for you, and I will do my best to make myself available.

Thank you for the continuous support you have provided through my time working with you-- I am truly lucky to have you as a role-model guiding me through my final year as an undergraduate! I look forward to hearing back soon and setting up a meeting.

Preparing for the meeting

In preparation for the meeting, compile and draft the following materials and plan to bring them with you, or have them ready to share electronically:

• Information on the funding source, program, or opportunity you’re applying for. Also be prepared to provide any forms or instructions that explain what is needed from recommenders.
• A current résumé or a list of your jobs, internships, activities, honors and any other background information that would be relevant to your project proposal or the opportunity you’re applying for.
• A copy of your project proposal, personal statement, application, and/or other materials that may be helpful to discuss during the meeting.
• If the letter of recommendation needs to be printed out and mailed directly to a program/employer, plan to provide your recommender with an addressed and stamped envelope that they can use to send the letter once completed.

Plan to leave materials with your recommender or forward the materials to them once they agree to write a letter on your behalf.

Asking for a recommendation

Be prepared to guide the conversation. Use the meeting as an opportunity to share your interests in and motivations to pursue an opportunity or engage in a research project. Plan to talk about what you’ve done thus far to prepare yourself to be successful in this undertaking. You can also use this as an opportunity to get feedback on your proposal or application.

During the course of your conversation, politely ask if they would be willing to write a letter of recommendation on your behalf. Be prepared to discuss why you’re approaching them specifically, and how you feel a recommendation from them will contribute to your application. Consider the conversations you’ve had with them previously; the advice, guidance, and support they’ve provided, and the ways in which they have shaped your academic career and goals.

Example 1: I have learned so much about ____ (specific topics or areas of study) ____over the semester through taking your class, and I have appreciated the conversations we’ve had during office hours about your research and career path. These conversations have helped me clarify the direction I want to go, and I am eager to build my experience and skill set through _____ (engaging in, participating in, working at, etc.) ______. I want to ask if you are willing write a letter of recommendation in support of my application. I feel that you are best positioned to speak to my academic abilities and interests, and my potential.

Example 2: I am so grateful for the support and guidance you’ve provided to me over the years. It has been invaluable in shaping my career path and helping me determine my next steps. As I prepare to apply for ____ (program, opportunity, funding, etc.) ____, I want to ask if you are willing to write a letter of recommendation in support of my application. My other recommenders are familiar with my academic abilities, but as my research mentor, I feel you are the best person to speak to my dedication, persistence, and adaptability in the face of challenges. You’ve seen how hard I’ve worked on the research project, the contributions I’ve made, and how I’ve managed to troubleshoot and overcome setbacks. These are qualities and attributes the selection committee emphasizes in their criteria, and I feel you would be best positioned to speak to the ways in which I’ve demonstrated these qualities and attributes.

They said “yes” – what’s next?

If the answer is “yes,” then provide your recommender with the information and instructions you brought with you or prepared in advance of the conversation, and go over the submission deadline and process for submission.

After your meeting send a thank you note to your recommender letting them know you appreciate their willingness to write a letter on your behalf.

Prior to the application deadline, it is your responsibility to confirm that letters of recommendation have been received. If they have not submitted the letter, send a polite reminder of the upcoming deadline to your recommenders, thanking them again for writing your recommendation.

Don’t forget to keep your recommenders apprised of the outcome of your application and your project, checking in with them periodically and sharing updates.

What if they say “no”?

First, do not take it personally. There are many reasons why a potential recommender may decline your request. If the answer is “no,” respect their decision and accept it graciously. It’s essential to maintain your composure and professionalism; you don’t want to lose the opportunity for future advising or mentorship.

Why faculty/advisors may decline your request:

• They do not feel they can speak favorably on your behalf
• They do not feel as though they know you well enough to write a specific recommendation with concrete examples
• They have insufficient knowledge about the position or program you’re applying to
• They feel their assessment will not be relevant

References vs. Letters of Recommendation – What’s the difference?

On occasion, you may be asked for references in lieu of letters of recommendation. In this case, you will need to provide the names and contact information for a specified number of people who are willing to speak on your behalf. Similar to letters of recommendation, you want to approach people who know you well and who you feel will be able to speak to your skills, attributes, and potential for success.

Always ask for permission before you provide names and contact information for references. From the perspective of those who serve as references, there is nothing worse than having an employer call out of the blue to ask about a student who gave out your name without your knowledge. If your references are caught off guard and unprepared for a call, the likelihood of them giving a glowing reference decreases significantly.

Approach potential references in the same manner as you would if asking for a letter, scheduling a time to talk with them and preparing to discuss what you’re applying for. Once they agree to serve as a reference, confirm their contact information, making sure you are giving out the phone number and email address of their choosing.

Letters of Recommendation

What this handout is about.

Producing an effective recommendation letter involves strategy, research, and planning. This handout is designed to introduce recommenders to some best practices for writing effective recommendation letters.

Deciding whether to write a recommendation

Recommendation letters are likely to receive close scrutiny, and sparse or non-specific recommendations may negatively impact an application. If a recommender is unable or unwilling to produce a recommendation that speaks directly to the individual applicant and position, the selection committee or potential employer may interpret this negatively. If you do not feel that you could provide a positive or detailed recommendation, it is okay to decline!

There are several reasons why it may be appropriate to decline a request for a recommendation:

• You may not feel comfortable writing a positive letter, either because you have no information about the student or because they did not perform well enough in a class or position.
• You may feel you are a “bad fit” for the student’s application. For example, if your field of expertise is completely unrelated to the student’s area of interest, you might advise the student to ask recommenders with more relevant backgrounds.
• You may feel that you lack the necessary credentials to offer a compelling recommendation. For example, graduate student instructors may feel as if they cannot credibly endorse their students’ graduate school applications. Thus, students may be directed to faculty to write letters instead of graduate students.
• You may know that you will not have time to write and proofread a strong letter before the student’s deadline.

Consider setting up a meeting. This will give you an opportunity to ask about the applicant’s academic background, professional goals, and reasons for applying. It may help to clarify whether this is a one-time request, or whether you are being asked to serve as a recommender for several applications. It’s a good idea to request to see the applicant’s resume, CV, personal statement, or other components of the application. Each of these can give you a sense of the applicant’s goals and help you decide if you would be a good recommender. These items will also allow you to tailor your letter appropriately if you decide to write on the applicant’s behalf.

Confidentiality and protected information

Many applications invite applicants to waive their right to view a letter of recommendation. Confidential letters of recommendation may be viewed as more credible than letters that applicants can access.

You should be aware of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and your institution’s FERPA-related guidelines when writing recommendation letters. FERPA prohibits disclosure of protected student information such as grades and attendance without the student’s prior written consent. Students who want you to address protected information should specify which records you may disclose, the purpose for which the disclosure is being made, and to whom the information may be disclosed. You can read more about FERPA here: https://www2.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/ferpa/index.html .

Writing strong recommendations

After committing to write a recommendation for an applicant, gather information about the opportunity to which they are applying. Besides asking the applicant about the organization, you may also want to reach out to someone in your own professional network who may know something about the audience or take some time to do your own research. Here are some questions to consider:

• What are the organization’s values and priorities? Some organizations state this information explicitly on their websites and other publications, and this can help you tailor your letter to directly address the audience’s top concerns.
• What information does the audience want to learn from you? Some institutions will ask you to answer specific questions about the applicant in your letter. Knowing these in advance will give you more time to talk with the student about any information you may need.
• How is this opportunity a good fit for the applicant? Referencing special features and benefits offered by a position shows that you’ve done your homework, which can add to the weight of your recommendation by demonstrating that you are willing to invest extra work in your student’s success. You will also be able to speak to the applicant’s fit for the position in greater detail.

Keep in mind that nearly all recommendations contain a positive appraisal of an applicant’s abilities and character, and it costs recommenders almost nothing to offer general and unsubstantiated praise of an applicant. Letters that claim an applicant is “the best student I’ve ever worked with” or “the hardest working employee I’ve ever had” are likely to meet with skepticism, unless the writer includes specific evidence to back up these claims. Even letters that contain genuine praise may come across as form letters unless you can speak to unique evidence about the student that corroborates your positive assessment.

Many different kinds of information may constitute evidence in a recommendation, and it is up to you to determine what would be most convincing to the audience. Here are some guidelines for what you may want to include or avoid:

• Do describe your relationship with the applicant. Say how long you’ve known the applicant and in what capacity. This information helps the audience understand how well you know the applicant. For example, sharing that you’ve advised a student for three years and taught them in two senior seminars demonstrates that you know your applicant better than a recommender who has only recently met the student or who has only taught the student in a large lecture class.
• Do include quantitative data about a student’s performance in a class or an employee’s performance in a position. Because raw grade point averages or other performance metrics are sometimes difficult to translate across different contexts, try to rank students against other students. For example, rather than saying “Judith received an A in my class,” aim for evidence that tells the audience how Judith’s performance compared to her classmates’: “Judith was among the top 5% of students in her large lecture class.” (Remember, if you do include specific grades in your letter, you must have written consent from the student as per FERPA.)
• Do compare applicants to students who have been placed into other positions. A statement like, “Over the past five years, other students with undergraduate research experience similar to Amer’s have been accepted to graduate programs at X, Y, and Z,” gives the audience a sense of where Amer stands in a wider population of successful students. Including comments like these also indicates that you have a good sense of what makes an applicant successful.
• Do mention the applicant’s personal and/or intellectual strengths as they pertain to the application. For example, it may be helpful to emphasize a study abroad applicant’s open-mindedness. Again, include appropriate evidence for this claim, which may involve discussing or even directly citing the student’s written work in your class.
• Do explain why you think the applicant is a good fit. Selection committees are often interested in hearing how students would contribute to the intellectual and professional climate of their institution. Given your experience with the student, help the audience see the type of employee or scholar the student will be: “Casey’s research experience in early-modern Arabic poetry would make them an ideal addition to Professor Seif’s Syrian cultural archival project.” If possible, mention the position/school/fellowship by name. This proves that you’ve taken enough interest in the letter to target it for each recipient. It will not always be possible to tailor recommendations to each program; for example, many postgraduate programs are moving to common applications that send the same letters to all programs to which students apply.
• Don’t shy away from discussing the applicant’s weaknesses —but only if those weaknesses are likely to already be on the audience’s radar. For example, you may have insight into why your student received an uncharacteristically low grade in your class during their final semester that could alleviate an audience’s concerns. You may draw attention to the applicant’s growth as well as the potential for continued growth in the new position. Keep in mind, however, that recommendation letters are expected to be positive in tone, so proceed with caution when discussing applicants’ weaknesses. Specifically avoid commenting on personality traits or other topics that are irrelevant to the application.
• Don’t rely on generalizations, clichés, or platitudes. Every good applicant will be “dedicated,” “hard-working,” and “enthusiastic.” Praise like this is likely to appear in dozens of other letters for other applicants, so you need to say more to help your applicant stand out. Include specific examples to support these descriptors. Convey the unique strengths of your student, especially any that you believe speak directly to the audience’s interests or values. Also pay special attention to any language that may inadvertently convey gender or other biases. For example, some studies have reported that language that pertains to effort (rather than accomplishments), personal life details (rather than relevant professional information), and emotional capacities (rather than academic or professional ability) more frequently appear in recommendations for women than for men. Focusing on traits that are demonstrable with evidence and germane to the program or position to which the student is applying is the best way to avoid implicit bias in your letters.
• Don’t include too much information about you or your class. Although some brief background information about the context in which you know the student is appropriate, do not spend so much time discussing course or assignment details that the letter is no longer focused upon the applicant.
• Don’t offer tepid praise or left-handed compliments. Half-hearted comments are almost guaranteed to attract the wrong kind of attention. Although you may honestly report that your student “completed all course assignments on time” or “was an adequate writer,” the audience will likely interpret these phrases as veiled criticism. Avoiding tepid praise is more difficult than it seems. After you’ve finished writing the letter, read over it with a critical eye and try to assume the worst of the student. Do any of your sentences invite uncharitable interpretation?
• Don’t simply summarize the applicant’s CV or resume. As with tepid praise, simply reiterating what the audience already knows from other parts of the application implies that you either don’t know or don’t care enough about the applicant to offer your own appraisal. It is appropriate to highlight a special component of a student’s resume and explain why you believe this aspect of the student makes them a great candidate, but don’t waste your opportunity to offer your own valuable endorsement by simply listing the applicant’s accomplishments.

Formatting recommendation letters

After you’ve decided what to write in your recommendation, you will need to decide how to write it. How long should the recommendation be? Should it be written on official letterhead? To whom should it be addressed? Will the letter submitted electronically, or will it be mailed?

Length: Just as there is sometimes no prescribed length for application essays, there is no standard length for recommendation letters. Most recommendations tend to be around 1 to 1.5 single-spaced pages long, although some may be longer if you have a lot to share. Business and law school recommendations tend to be briefer than graduate school recommendations. In general, try to strike a balance between writing too little (which suggests you have nothing to say about the applicant) and writing too much, which may be annoying to audiences who are reading dozens or hundreds of recommendations for a single position.

Letterhead: When possible, write recommendations on official letterhead and sign them using a handwritten signature. Producing letters on official letterhead both adds to your credibility as a recommender and demonstrates that you care enough about the applicant to put finishing touches on your endorsement. This may include sending an envelope with your signature across the seal. Some application programs ask recommenders to compose or paste their recommendations into online forms. In these cases, you would not submit the letter on formal letterhead. Learning in advance how you will need to submit your recommendation can help you avoid unnecessary work and accurately gauge the time required to submit your letter.

Salutation: Address recommendation letters as specifically as possible. If the applicant is applying for a position within a firm or office and you know who will receive the letter, address the letter to that person, like “Dear Dr. Anderson.” If you don’t know who, specifically, will receive the letter, address the recommendation to the target audience, like “Dear Fulbright Committee”. Avoid vacuous salutations like “To Whom it May Concern.” Also avoid informal greetings, including those you might use in an email or other correspondence, like “Hi,” “Hello,” “Good afternoon,” etc. “Dear” is the standard formal salutation in English.

Closing: End the letter with a simple closing word or phrase like “Sincerely,” “Regards,” or “Cordially” or by thanking the audience for considering your endorsement. Avoid personal and emotive language. If you would be willing to answer any additional questions the institution or employer may have about the applicant, it is appropriate to invite them to contact you before closing the letter.

Letters of recommendation inform the decisions of admissions committees, employers, funding agencies, and other organizations who are trying to choose between multiple candidates. Your efforts to create strong letters make a difference.

If you commit to writing a letter of recommendation, follow through. Keep track of deadlines and start early, as you may discover that you need additional information from the student or institution, and you will want to have time to request this information and incorporate it into your recommendation.

Finally, consider whether you are willing to do more than write a recommendation. Students may need help with other parts of their application, such as statements of purpose or writing samples. Since you likely have insight into what graduate programs or employers are looking for, you are in a unique position to help applicants with these other materials as well.

Works consulted

We consulted these works while writing this handout. This is not a comprehensive list of resources on the handout’s topic, and we encourage you to do your own research to find additional publications. Please do not use this list as a model for the format of your own reference list, as it may not match the citation style you are using. For guidance on formatting citations, please see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial . We revise these tips periodically and welcome feedback.

Brown University. n.d. “Writing Letters of Recommendation.” Fellowships and Research. Accessed July 2, 2019. https://www.brown.edu/academics/college/fellowships/information-resources/writing-letters-recommendation/writing-letters-recommendation .

Madera, Juan M., Michelle R. Hebl, and Randi C. Martin. 2009. “Gender and Letters of Recommendation for Academia: Agentic and Communal Differences.” Journal of Applied Psychology 94 (6): 1591–99. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0016539 .

Massachusetts Institute of Technology. n.d. “How to Write Good Letters of Recommendation.” MIT Admissions. Accessed July 2, 2019. https://mitadmissions.org/apply/parents-educators/writingrecs/ .

Stanford University. n.d. “Writing Letters of Recommendation.” Teaching Commons. Accessed July 2, 2019. https://teachingcommons.stanford.edu/resources/teaching-resources/how-evaluate-students/writing-letters-recommendation.

Yale University. n.d. “Writing Letters of Recommendation.” Fellowships and Funding. Accessed July 2, 2019. https://funding.yale.edu/faculty-staff-recommenders/writing-letters .

Trix, Frances, and Carolyn Psenka. 2003. “Exploring the Color of Glass: Letters of Recommendation for Female and Male Medical Faculty.” Discourse & Society 14 (2): 191–220. https://doi.org/10.1177%2F0957926503014002277 .

Whitaker, Manya. 2016. “Tips for Writing Recommendation Letters.” Inside Higher Ed , December 2, 2016. https://www.insidehighered.com/advice/2016/12/02/how-write-stronger-letters-recommendation-students-essay .

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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4 Amazing Recommendation Letter Samples for Students

Letters of Recommendation

How important are recommendation letters in a college application? According to William Fitzsimmons, dean of admissions and financial aid at Harvard, they are "extremely important."

If you're a student, examples of great letters of recommendation can help you understand how to get strong letters yourself from your teachers. If you're a teacher, the examples in this guide will inspire you to support your students strongly as they apply to college. Keep reading for four excellent letters from teachers that will get anyone into college , along with expert analysis on why they're so strong.

Important Note: Are you looking for job recommendation letters? If so, check out my great post here!

First, let's understand the role of recommendation letters in your application.

Why are Recommendation Letters Important?

The majority of admissions officers at four-year colleges, especially private schools, emphasize that their process is holistic . They seek to gain a sense of the student as a "whole person," rather than focusing on pieces of who she is based solely on grades and test scores. Since they rarely meet the student in person, the recommendation letters, along with the student's own personal essay, play a huge role in illuminating her intellectual and personal qualities.

That's why recommendation letters from teachers, especially those who know their students well, carry a great deal of weight in applications. A letter that expresses a strong vote of support, as well as highlights a student's impressive academic and personal strengths , can have a powerful effect on that student's chances of admission.

Let's look at some samples of strong recommendation letters, one from an English teacher, another from a physics teacher, the third from a history teacher, and the final one from a math teacher. Then we'll break down exactly why these letters of recommendation are effective.

The first example recommends Sara, a senior who loves to write and read poetry.

Sample Letter #1: Sara the Poet

Dear Admissions Committee, I had the pleasure of teaching Sara in her 11th grade honors English class at Mark Twain High School. From the first day of class, Sara impressed me with her ability to be articulate about difficult concepts and texts, her sensitivity to the nuances within literature, and her passion for reading, writing, and creative expression- both in and out of the classroom. Sara is a talented literary critic and poet, and she has my highest recommendation as a student and writer. Sara is talented at considering the subtleties within literature and the purpose behind authors' works. She produced an extraordinary year-long thesis paper on creative identity development, in which she compared works from three different time periods and synthesized cultural and historical perspectives to inform her analysis. When called upon to give her thesis defense in front of her peers, Sara spoke clearly and eloquently about her conclusions and responded to questions in a thoughtful way. Outside of the classroom, Sara is dedicated to her literary pursuits, especially to poetry. She publishes her poetry in our school's literary magazine, as well as in online magazines. She is an insightful, sensitive, and deeply self-aware individual driven to explore art, writing, and a deeper understanding of the human condition. Throughout the year Sara was an active participant in our discussions, and she always supported her peers. Her caring nature and personality allow her to work well with others in a team setting, as she always respects others' opinions even when they differ from her own. When we held a class debate about gun laws, Sara opted to speak for the side opposite her own views. She explained her choice as motivated by a desire to put herself in other people's shoes, view the issues from a new perspective, and gain a clearer sense of the issue from all angles. Throughout the year, Sara demonstrated this openness to and empathy for the opinions, feelings, and perspectives of others, along with shrewd powers of observation, all qualities that makes her outstanding as a student of literature and burgeoning writer. I am certain that Sara is going to continue to do great and creative things in her future. I highly recommend her for admission to your undergraduate program. She is talented, caring, intuitive, dedicated, and focused in her pursuits. Sara consistently seeks out constructive feedback so she can improve her writing skills, which is a rare and impressive quality in a high school student. Sara is truly a stand-out individual who will impress everyone she meets. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions at [email protected]. Sincerely, Ms. Scribe English Teacher Mark Twain High School

This is a thorough, glowing recommendation for a student that Ms. Scribe clearly knows well. What other features make it stand out as a strong letter of rec?

The Breakdown

Ms. Scribe has a high opinion of Sara and her skills at writing and literary analysis. One way that she expresses this is by using powerful and specific language. She doesn't merely say Sara is a good writer. She says she's articulate about difficult concepts and sensitive to the nuances within literature. She calls her insightful and self-aware with shrewd powers of observation.

These descriptors don't happen by accident. Ms. Scribe took the time to choose her words carefully , and that effort paid off with a strong letter that captures Sara's special qualities.

Ms. Scribe also supports her characterization of Sara with examples . She describes her thesis paper and how she responded to questions thoughtfully under the pressured situation of her thesis defense. She gives the example of the debate on gun laws to illustrate Sara's openness to many different points of view.

In addition to illuminating her intellectual and personal strengths and supporting them with specific examples, Ms. Scribe speaks to Sara's goals for the future. She points out that she is talented at writing, poetry specifically, and that she is committed to continuing to improve as a writer in her future.

This letter, by virtue of its wording, length, and specificity, shows that Ms. Scribe took the time and effort to recommend Sara thoughtfully and with conviction. The fact that she knows Sara well and is committed to helping her application succeed with a thoughtful letter further adds weight to her assessment.

This letter would be a boon to Sara's application, especially if she's applying to study writing or English. She clearly impressed her English teacher and, in return, got a memorable, complimentary letter of recommendation for her college application.

This next example is similarly enthusiastic and detailed. It's for a student applying to an engineering program.

Sample Letter #2: Stacy the Engineer

Dear Admissions Committee, It is a great pleasure to recommend Stacy for admission to your engineering program. She is one of the most exceptional students I have encountered in my 15 years of teaching. I taught Stacy in my 11th grade honors physics class and advised her in Robotics Club. I am not surprised to find out she is now ranked at the top of an extraordinarily capable class of seniors. She has a keen interest in and talent for physics, math, and scientific inquiry. Her advanced skills and passion for the subject make her an ideal fit for your rigorous engineering program. Stacy is a perceptive, sharp, quick individual with a high aptitude for math and science. She is driven to understand how things work, whether they be the old computer hard drives in the school library or the forces that hold our universe together. Her final project in class was especially impressive, an investigation of frequency-dependent sound absorption, an idea that she said was sparked by not wanting to bother her parents with her hours of guitar practice at home. She's been a strong leader in Robotics Club, eager to share her knowledge with others and learn new skills. I have the students in the club prepare lessons and take turns leading our after-school meetings. When it was Stacy's turn, she showed up prepared with a fascinating lecture on lunar nautics and fun activities that got everyone moving and talking. She was our only student teacher to be met with much deserved applause at the end of her lesson. Stacy's personal strengths are as impressive as her intellectual accomplishments. She's an active, outgoing presence in class with a great sense of humor. Stacy's the perfect person to get a group project rolling, but she also knows how to sit back and let others take the lead. Her cheerful nature and openness to feedback means she's always learning and growing as a learner, an impressive strength that will continue to serve her well in college and beyond. Stacy is just the kind of driven, engaging, and curious student that helped make our classroom a lively environment and safe place to take intellectual risks. Stacy has my highest recommendation for admission to your engineering program. She has demonstrated excellence in all that she puts her mind to, whether it's designing an experiment, collaborating with others, or teaching herself to play classical and electrical guitar. Stacy's endless curiosity, combined with her willingness to take risks, leads me to believe there will be no limit to her growth and achievements in college and beyond. Please don't hesitate to contact me at [email protected] if you have any questions. Sincerely, Ms. Randall Physics Teacher Marie Curie High School

Ms. Randall is clearly as much of a fan of Stacy as she is of Mileva Marić. How does she communicate her recommendation?

Ms. Randall plugs for Stacy right off the bat with a statement of outstanding ranking : Stacy is one of the most exceptional students she's had in 15 years of teaching. A statement like this is pretty extraordinary and will make an impact in the mind of its readers. Stacy sounds like a special student, and she chose her recommender well.

Like in the last example, this letter uses strong, specific language , calling Stacy a perceptive and sharp person who has the confidence and good humor to take intellectual risks. Through its accurate and expressive language, this letter helps Stacy come to life in the mind of the reader.

Beyond the evaluation, Ms. Randall gives specific examples of Stacy's academic and personal strengths. She talks about her successful teaching in Robotics Club, her leadership in group projects, and her dedicated practice to teaching herself to play the guitar.

Rather than spreading the letter too thin, Ms. Randall highlights a few core themes. She connects Stacy's love of music with her passion for physics by talking about the frequency-dependent sound absorption project. All the threads tie together in a nice, memorable bow.

This letter is a strong vote of support for Stacy's application to an engineering program. Her physics teacher admires Stacy's skills and goals, and she made it clear that Stacy had her highest recommendation in this letter.

This next example also comes from a teacher who's extremely impressed with his student. It focuses on the student's performance in class and his volunteer work outside the classroom.

Sample Letter #3: William the History Buff and Social Organizer

Dear Admissions Committee, It is hard to overstate the meaningful contributions that William has made to our school and surrounding community. As both his 10th and 11th grade History teacher, I've had the pleasure of seeing William make profound contributions both in and out of the classroom. His school and community service is motivated by a strong sense of social justice, which he informs through a nuanced and sophisticated understanding of historical trends and events. I can say with confidence that William is one of the most caring and driven students I've ever taught in my fifteen years at the school. As a child of immigrant parents, William is especially drawn to understand the immigrant experience. He produced an extraordinary semester-long research paper on the treatment of Japanese-Americans in the U.S. during WWII, in which he went beyond all expectations to conduct Skype interviews with relatives of his featured subjects to incorporate into his paper. William has a great capacity to draw connections between past and present and to ground his understanding of current issues in the context of historical events. He never retreats to a simple answer or explanation, but is comfortable dealing with ambiguity. William's fascination with U.S. and World History and skill for deep analysis have him an exemplary scholar, as a well as a motivated activist driven to promote civil rights and work towards social equity. In sophomore year, William noticed that the college planning seminars students attended included little information for first generation or immigrant students. Always thinking about how institutions can better serve people, William spoke with counselors and ESL teachers about his ideas to better support all students. He helped collect resources and design a college planning curriculum for immigrant and undocumented students to enhance their college access. He further helped organize a group that connected ESL students with native English speakers, stating his mission to be helping ELLs improve their English and increasing multicultural awareness and social cohesion at the school as a whole. William identified a need and worked with students and faculty alike to meet it in an extremely effective and beneficial way. Ever the history scholar, he did plenty of research to back up his ideas. William believes passionately in social progress and working for the common good. His own personal experiences, along with his profound grasp on social history, drive his advocacy work. He is a talented, intelligent student with the charisma, confidence, strong values, and respect for others to make a huge difference in the world around him. I'm looking forward to seeing all the good that William continues to do for his fellow humanity in college and beyond, as well as the excellent work that he will produce at the college level. William has my highest recommendation. If you have any questions, please contact me at [email protected]. Sincerely, Mr. Jackson History Teacher Martin Luther King, Jr. High School

Mr. Jackson's letter makes William sound like a pretty amazing student and person. How does he go about expressing his admiration for William in this rec letter?

Like Ms. Randall did in her letter, Mr. Jackson provides a statement of outstanding ranking for William, calling him one of the most caring and driven students he's ever taught. Considering his long teaching career of 15 years, this says a lot about William as a student and a person.

Also like in the last example, Mr. Jackson focuses on a few core aspects of William's character. He talks about his love of history and how it informs his social activism. He comments on his exceptional historical scholarship, as well as his personal qualities of caring for those around him and working for the social good.

Mr. Jackson also gives insight into William's personal life , explaining how he has a personal connection to his projects and volunteer work as the child of immigrant parents. This letter reveals that William is a thoughtful, motivated individual who connects his own experiences with his learning and desire to contribute to his community.

The letter also showcases William's exceptional accomplishments by giving specific examples of William's research paper and his work supporting the academic and personal needs of ELL students. Mr. Jackson expresses his enthusiastic recommendation while illuminating William's love of learning and strength of character. This letter would be both impressive and memorable to admissions officers considering William for admission to their school.

This next example comes from a math teacher. Let's see what Mr. Wiles has to say about Joe.

Sample Letter #4: Joe the Hard Worker

Dear Admissions Committee, It is my pleasure to recommend Joe, who I taught in my 11th grade math class. Joe demonstrated tremendous effort and growth throughout the year and brought a great energy to class. He has that combination of a positive attitude and the belief that he can always improve that's rare in a high school student, but so essential to the learning process. I am confident that he will continue to display the same commitment and diligence in everything he does. I highly recommend Joe for admission to your school. Joe would not describe himself as a math person. He's told me on several occasions that all the numbers and variables make his mind go fuzzy. Joe did, in fact, struggle to comprehend the material at the beginning of the year, but his response to this is what really struck me. Where so many others have given up, Joe took on this class as a welcome challenge. He stayed after school for extra help, got extra tutoring at the nearby college, and asked questions in and out of class. Due to all his hard work, Joe not only raised his grades, but he also inspired some of his classmates to stay after for extra help, as well. Joe truly demonstrated a growth mindset, and he inspired his peers to adopt that valuable perspective, too. Joe helped contribute to our classroom environment as one where all students can feel supported and able to ask questions. Joe's strong belief in his ability to acquire new skills and improve through practice was likely shaped by his years as a baseball player. He's played all through high school and is one of the team's most valuable players. In his final for our class, Joe designed an impressive project calculating and analyzing batting averages. While he initially described himself as not a math person, Joe reaped the benefits of his tremendous effort and found a way to make the subject come alive for him in a way that he was personally invested in. As a teacher, it is incredibly fulfilling to witness a student make this kind of academic and personal progress. Joe is a trustworthy, reliable, good-humored student and friend who supports others in and out of the classroom. He was a pleasure to have in class, and his positive attitude and belief in himself, even in the face of difficulty, is an immensely admirable asset. I'm confident that he will continue to demonstrate the same diligence, perseverance, and optimism that he showed myself and his peers. I highly recommend Joe for admission to your undergraduate program. Please feel free to contact me with any further questions at [email protected]. Sincerely, Mr. Wiles Math Teacher Euclid High School

While the students featured in the first three examples were top of their class or demonstrated leadership in the school, Joe isn't a top achiever in the traditional sense. However, this recommendation is still a strong one, even if it says he struggled in the teacher's class. What does Mr. Wiles focus on to recommend Joe?

Mr. Wiles writes a strong letter for Joe, with the same kind of enthusiasm and specific examples as the other three letters. Even though Joe may not have gotten the strongest grades in his math class, he found an enthusiastic recommender in his math teacher. Mr. Wiles was extremely impressed with Joe's attitude, effort, and growth mindset , which he demonstrated throughout the year and inspired in his fellow classmates.

Mr. Wiles focuses on Joe's substantial personal strengths, ones that would likely be impressive to his future educators. Even in a subject that may not come naturally to him, Joe is diligent and committed. He's not self-conscious about asking questions or seeking extra help, and he retains a strong belief in himself that he can continuously learn, improve, and acquire new skills.

This letter, like the others, is effective because it is focused, supportive, and backed up with examples. As you can tell from these examples, recommendations can communicate a great deal about a student. Because of this, they can have a powerful impact on a student's chances of admission. So what can teachers and students do to make sure they are sending a strong recommendation letter that will help their chances?

Enthusiasm is key.

How to Get a Strong Recommendation Letter

While these letters are about different students with different interests, they share certain fundamental features. One, they sound excited and enthusiastic. The teachers clearly communicate that they are impressed by these students and eager to help them get into college.

At the same time, the letters don't go overboard because they have examples to back up their assessments. Specific examples and stories are key for backing up the assessment. Plus, they make a letter more interesting and memorable. Rather than just another engineering applicant, Stacy is the student who researched sound-absorption to spare her parents from hours of guitar scales.

Finally, the teachers all discuss their students' personal strengths , along with their academic strengths. They present the holistic view that admissions officers are looking for, along with their strong vote of confidence in the students' future success.

Teachers should incorporate all these features into their letters, and students should help provide them with the raw material to write about. While students should choose a teacher who knows them well and has stories and observations to share, they should also give their teachers a detailed "brag sheet" and let them know what would go into their ideal letter. That way it can be even more personalized and complement the story the student is telling in the rest of her application.

While recommenders may or may not share their letters with students, there should still be open, two-way communication when the student makes her request . That way students and teachers can work together to produce an insightful, enthusiastic, and specific letter of recommendation to send to colleges.

What's Next?

Are you a teacher writing recommendations for your students? Read all about how to write an outstanding recommendation letter for your students , along with what not to include.

Are you or a student you work with applying to a selective school, like Harvard? Learn about what kind of letter she should get for the Ivy League.

Now that you've read these examples of strong teacher recommendation letters, check out these examples of bad ones . Warning: rec letters may appear better than they actually are.

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Rebecca graduated with her Master's in Adolescent Counseling from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. She has years of teaching and college counseling experience and is passionate about helping students achieve their goals and improve their well-being. She graduated magna cum laude from Tufts University and scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT.

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• Career Blog

Best Letter of Recommendation Samples for Students

A letter of recommendation, also known as a reference letter, is a written document that summarizes the qualities, skills, and achievements of a person being recommended. It is usually requested by someone applying for a job, academic program, scholarship, or any other opportunity that requires a recommendation from a person of authority or credibility.

A well-written letter of recommendation can make a huge difference in determining whether someone gets accepted for a job, scholarship or academic program. Letters of recommendation serve as a validation of a person’s character, abilities, and work ethic, which is why it is important that the writer of the letter has a good understanding of the applicant and can write a convincing endorsement.

Understanding Letters of Recommendation for Students

As a student, you may have come across the term “letter of recommendation” more than a few times. A letter of recommendation is a document that is written by someone who knows you well and can vouch for your abilities, character, and achievements. Letters of recommendation can be crucial elements in your academic and professional life, and it is important to understand their significance.

A. Importance of Letters of Recommendation in Student Life

If you’re looking to apply for a scholarship, college admission, or a job, you’ll often be required to submit letters of recommendation. Why are these documents so vital? Simply put, letters of recommendation enhance your application materials and add a personal touch. They provide the reader with a third-party perspective on your abilities and can help to distinguish you from other candidates. A personal recommendation can make a significant difference in a selection committee’s decision-making process.

B. Types of Letters of Recommendation

Not all letters of recommendation are created equal. There are different types of letters of recommendation, and each serves a specific purpose. Some common types of letters of recommendation include academic, professional, and character letters.

1. Academic Letters of Recommendation

Academic letters of recommendation are typically written by professors or other academic professionals who can attest to your academic achievements, abilities, and potential. These letters are often required when applying for scholarships, graduate programs or internships.

2. Professional Letters of Recommendation

Professional letters of recommendation are written by someone who can speak to your work ethic, skills, and achievements in a professional setting. These letters are often required when applying for jobs or internships.

3. Character Letters of Recommendation

Character letters of recommendation are typically written by someone who knows you well outside of your academic or professional life, such as a coach, community leader, or mentor. These letters can speak to your personal qualities, such as your integrity, honesty, and compassion.

Understanding the importance and types of letters of recommendation can be instrumental in your academic and professional success. As you prepare for your next application, ensure that you have the appropriate recommendations and that they reflect the best possible version of yourself.

How to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation

When it comes to asking for a letter of recommendation, there are certain tips and guidelines that can help you secure a strong endorsement from your recommender. Additionally, knowing the dos and don’ts of the process can increase your chances of receiving a favorable letter of recommendation. Finally, it’s important to follow up on your request to ensure that your letter is submitted in a timely manner.

A. Tips to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation

Choose a recommender who knows you well: The strongest letters of recommendation come from people who know you well and can speak specifically to your skills, accomplishments, and character.

Ask in person if possible: It’s best to ask for a letter of recommendation in person if possible. This shows that you value the recommendation and gives your recommender an opportunity to ask any questions they may have.

Provide all necessary information: Be sure to provide your recommender with all necessary information about the program, job, or opportunity you’re applying for so they can tailor their recommendation appropriately.

Respect deadlines: Make sure to provide your recommender with ample time to complete the letter and respect any deadlines they may have.

B. Dos and Don’ts of Asking for Letters of Recommendation

Do ask politely and respectfully.

Do provide all necessary information and context.

Do follow any guidelines provided by the recommender or institution.

Do express your gratitude and thanks.

Don’ts:

Don’t ask at the last minute.

Don’t pressure or guilt your recommender into writing the letter.

Don’t provide inaccurate or incomplete information.

Don’t forget to follow up with a thank you note or email.

C. How to Follow Up on a Letter of Recommendation Request

After you’ve made your request and provided all necessary information, it’s important to follow up on your request to ensure that your letter is submitted in a timely manner. Here are some tips:

Send a friendly reminder: After a week or two, send a friendly reminder to your recommender thanking them for agreeing to write the letter and asking if there’s anything else they need from you.

Offer to help: If your recommender seems overwhelmed or unsure of how to proceed, offer to provide additional information or materials that might help.

Express your gratitude: After the letter has been submitted, be sure to express your gratitude and thanks for their support.

By following these tips and guidelines, you can increase your chances of receiving a strong letter of recommendation that will help you achieve your goals.

Key Elements of an Effective Letter of Recommendation

If you’re tasked with writing a letter of recommendation for a student, it’s important to keep in mind that this piece of writing can greatly impact their future opportunities. Therefore, it’s important to ensure that your letter of recommendation is effective and informative.

Here are the key elements that you should include in your letter of recommendation:

A. Introduction and Relationship with Student

In the introduction of your letter, you should establish your relationship with the student. This can include details such as how long you have known the student, in what capacity, and any relevant experiences that you have had working with or observing the student.

B. Overview of Student’s Qualifications

Next, provide an overview of the student’s qualifications. This should include details such as their academic performance, extracurricular activities, and any other achievements that make them stand out. You may also want to mention any challenges that the student has faced and how they have overcome them.

C. Specific Examples to Illustrate Student’s Capabilities

Throughout the letter, it’s important to provide specific examples that illustrate the student’s abilities and strengths. These examples should be relevant to the context in which the student will be applying (e.g. college, job, scholarship).

D. Positive Characteristics of Student

In addition to highlighting the student’s accomplishments, it’s important to also mention positive qualities about the student’s character. This can include attributes such as their work ethic, attitude, and interpersonal skills.

E. Closing Remarks and Recommendation for Student

Finally, in your closing remarks, summarize the key points you have made throughout the letter and provide a strong and supportive recommendation for the student. It’s also a good idea to include your contact information in case the recipient of the letter has any questions or would like to follow up with you.

By including these key elements in your letter of recommendation, you can help ensure that the student you are advocating for has the best chance possible of reaching their goals.

Writing Tips for Letters of Recommendation

Writing a letter of recommendation for a student can be a challenging task, especially if you are unsure of the right tone and language to use. However, with the right guidelines and tips, you can create a compelling and effective letter that will help the student achieve their goals.

A. Use the Right Tone and Language

One of the most critical aspects of writing a letter of recommendation is using the right tone and language. Your letter should convey your confidence in the student’s abilities and highlight their strengths and accomplishments. Avoid using overly negative language, and focus on the student’s positive qualities and achievements.

B. Formatting Guidelines

Formatting is also an essential part of writing a letter of recommendation. Make sure to follow the formatting guidelines provided by the recipient of the letter, whether it be a university, scholarship program, or job application. Use a professional font and structure your letter in a clear and concise manner.

C. Avoiding Common Pitfalls

There are several common pitfalls to avoid when writing a letter of recommendation. First, make sure to avoid vague statements and instead use specific examples to illustrate the student’s skills and accomplishments. Second, avoid exaggerating the student’s abilities or accomplishments, as this can backfire and harm the student’s reputation.

D. How to Get Started with Writing a Letter of Recommendation

To get started with writing a letter of recommendation for a student, begin by organizing your thoughts and brainstorming specific examples of the student’s skills and accomplishments. Consider the student’s academic performance, extracurricular activities, and any other relevant experiences. Use these examples to craft a compelling and personalized recommendation that highlights the student’s unique qualities and potential.

Writing a letter of recommendation for a student requires careful consideration of the right tone and language, formatting guidelines, and avoiding common pitfalls. By following these guidelines and tips, you can write a compelling letter that will help the student achieve their goals.

Examples of Letter of Recommendation for Students

Students applying for various opportunities such as scholarships, internships, jobs or educational programs often require a letter of recommendation from a reliable source. Besides academic accomplishments, students often seek recommendation letters highlighting their professional and personal traits. Here are three types of recommendation letters that can help students showcase their skills, knowledge, and character:

A. Example of Academic Letter of Recommendation

Dear [Admissions Committee/ Scholarship Review Board],

I am writing to recommend [student’s name] for [scholarship/program]. I have worked with [student’s name] for [duration] in my [course/research] and can attest to their excellent academic abilities.

[Student’s name] consistently achieved high grades and actively engaged in class discussions, demonstrating an exceptional understanding of the course material. They were also proactive in seeking feedback, revising their work, and collaborating with their peers to improve their knowledge and skills.

[Student’s name] has also made a substantial contribution to our research project. They demonstrated excellent research skills, attention to detail, and critical thinking in developing their research questions, analyzing data, and presenting their findings.

I am confident that [student’s name] will continue to excel academically and make a valuable contribution in [scholarship/program]. I highly recommend [student’s name] for this opportunity.

[Your name and title]

B. Example of Professional Letter of Recommendation

To whom it may concern,

I am writing to recommend [student’s name] for [job/internship]. I had the pleasure of working with [student’s name] as their [position] at [company name].

[Student’s name] was an organized and reliable employee who always met deadlines and exceeded our expectations. They demonstrated excellent communication skills, both verbally and in writing, and worked well in a team environment.

[Student’s name] took an active interest in learning new skills and technologies and was always eager to take on new responsibilities. They adapted quickly to changes in the work environment and demonstrated excellent problem-solving skills.

[Student’s name] has a passion for [industry/profession], and their positive attitude and drive would make them a valuable asset to any team. I confidently recommend [student’s name] for [job/internship].

C. Example of Character Letter of Recommendation

I am writing to recommend [student’s name] for [scholarship/program]. I have known [student’s name] for [duration] as their [teacher/mentor/friend] and can attest to their excellent character and personal qualities.

[Student’s name] is a hardworking, responsible, and compassionate individual who demonstrates integrity and kindness in their interactions with others. They are an excellent listener, always willing to lend a helping hand, and make a positive impact in their community.

Letter of Recommendation for College Admission

A. overview of college admission process.

The college admission process is a rigorous and holistic evaluation of a student’s academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities to determine their suitability for admission. The process involves several steps, including filling out application forms, submitting transcripts and test scores, and writing essays.

B. Importance of Letters of Recommendation for College Admission

Letters of recommendation are an integral part of the college admission process. They provide insights into a student’s character and abilities from an outside perspective, giving admissions officers a more complete picture of the applicant beyond their academic achievements and personal statements.

In many cases, a strong letter of recommendation can make the difference between acceptance and rejection. It can highlight a student’s unique qualities, academic achievements, and potential for future success.

C. How to Write a Strong Letter of Recommendation for College Admission

Writing a strong letter of recommendation for college admission requires thoughtful planning and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Begin by introducing yourself and explaining your relationship to the student. Provide some background information on your own qualifications and expertise, as this will lend credibility to your letter.

Highlight the qualities and strengths of the student that make them stand out from their peers. Provide specific examples to support your claims, such as accomplishments in academic or extracurricular activities.

Discuss the student’s potential for future success and their ability to contribute to the college community. Emphasize their unique qualities and perspective, as well as any challenges they have overcome.

Keep the tone positive and professional, avoiding negative or critical language. Use descriptive language and avoid clichés or vague generalizations.

Finally, proofread your letter carefully for grammar and spelling errors. Make sure your letter is formatted correctly and includes your contact information, in case the admissions office has any questions or concerns.

Letters of recommendation are an important component of the college admission process. By following these tips, you can help your students stand out and increase their chances of acceptance to their dream college.

Letter of Recommendation for Scholarship

A. Overview of Scholarship Application Process

When applying for a scholarship, students are often asked to submit a letter of recommendation. This letter serves as a personal endorsement from someone who can attest to the student’s abilities, accomplishments, and character. It is an important part of the scholarship application process, as it helps the scholarship committee gain a better understanding of the student beyond their academic achievements.

B. Importance of Letters of Recommendation for Scholarships

Letters of recommendation are critical for students seeking scholarships because they provide valuable insight into the student’s potential and qualifications. Scholarship committees look for candidates who not only excel academically but also demonstrate leadership skills, community involvement, and other extracurricular activities. A strong letter of recommendation can highlight these qualities and set the student apart from other applicants.

C. How to Write a Strong Letter of Recommendation for Scholarships

To write a strong letter of recommendation for a scholarship applicant, you should include specific examples of the student’s accomplishments and character traits. This will help the scholarship committee get a better idea of the student’s potential and suitability for the scholarship.

Begin by introducing yourself and your relationship with the student. Share details about how you know the student and for how long. Then, explain why you think the student is a strong candidate for the scholarship. Provide specific examples of their achievements and contributions, such as their academic accomplishments, leadership roles in clubs or organizations, volunteer work, or other notable achievements.

In addition to highlighting the student’s accomplishments, it is also important to emphasize their character traits. Mention positive aspects such as their work ethic, dedication, and perseverance. Share how the student’s personality has impacted you and others around them.

Finally, close your letter by giving a clear and enthusiastic recommendation for the student. Emphasize your confidence in their abilities to succeed and how the scholarship will help them achieve their goals. Be sure to include your contact information so that the scholarship committee may reach out to you for further information.

By following these guidelines, you can write a strong letter of recommendation that will help a student stand out in the scholarship application process. With your endorsement, they may just receive the financial assistance they need to pursue their dreams.

Letter of Recommendation for Employment

A. overview of job application process.

When applying for a job, candidates are required to submit various documents to support their application, including a resume or CV, cover letter, and letters of recommendation. A letter of recommendation serves as a testament to a candidate’s capabilities, qualifications, and past work experiences.

B. Importance of Letters of Recommendation for Employment

A well-written letter of recommendation can be a powerful tool in the job application process. It can offer an employer an insight into a candidate’s work habits, professionalism, and strengths that may not be apparent from their resume or cover letter. Letters of recommendation can provide employers with additional information that can help them make an informed decision when considering candidates for a position.

C. How to Write a Strong Letter of Recommendation for Employment

Writing a strong letter of recommendation requires careful thought and attention to detail. It is essential to provide specific examples of the candidate’s skills and abilities to support your claims. Here are some tips for writing a strong letter of recommendation:

1. Get to know the candidate:

To write a compelling letter of recommendation, you need to have a good understanding of the candidate’s skills, qualifications, and work experience. Take the time to speak with the candidate and review their resume and cover letter to get a better understanding of their achievements and career goals.

2. Start with a strong opening:

Begin the letter with a powerful opening statement that sums up the candidate’s strengths and qualifications. This statement should be attention-grabbing and leave a positive first impression with the employer.

3. Provide specific examples:

Support your claims with specific examples of the candidate’s achievements, skills, and abilities. Provide details on the projects the candidate has worked on and the outcomes they have achieved.

4. Be positive but honest:

When writing your letter, focus on the candidate’s positive attributes but be honest about their weaknesses if necessary. Providing constructive criticism can help the candidate improve their skills and grow professionally.

5. Keep it concise and professional:

A letter of recommendation should be concise, well-written, and professional. Use clear and concise language, and keep the letter to no more than one page in length.

By following these tips, you can write a strong letter of recommendation that can help the candidate stand out in the job application process.

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Letter of Recommendation Samples for Students

How to Request a Recommendation Letter

How to write a recommendation letter, what to include in a recommendation letter for a student, how to use letter examples and templates, student recommendation letter example, character references and personal recommendations, character reference letter example, how to create a reference list, frequently asked questions (faqs).

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Students may need a letter of recommendation to land a job, secure an internship, or earn a spot in a competitive academic program. But to make a good impression on the recipient, a letter of recommendation must be more than just an enthusiastic endorsement—it must follow a specific format.

Whether you are a student who needs a letter of recommendation for an application, or you're writing an academic reference, here’s how to format your letter and what to include in the document. Plus, you’ll find a few samples to help guide your writing.

Key Takeaways

• Students can request recommendation letters from teachers, professors, and employers.
• Character references provide an endorsement of a student’s positive personal qualities, such as their work ethic, dependability, and enthusiasm.
• When requesting a recommendation letter, offer to provide a copy of your CV or resume, as well as a job description or program overview.

When you request a letter of recommendation (sometimes also called a letter of reference), be sure to give potential writers information on why you need the letter, and let them know why you think they are a good person to recommend you. For example, if you performed well in your professor's class and are asking them to write a recommendation for graduate school, tell them you enjoyed their course and felt your performance demonstrated your commitment to pursuing another degree program.

You might also provide the person with your most up-to-date resume or CV. These details will make it easier for them to write a personalized and targeted reference letter.

You should also provide all the information the person needs regarding how to submit the letter, what to include (if there are any requirements), and when it is due.

When writing a reference letter , be sure to explain how you know the student, and describe some of the qualities that make him or her a good candidate for the job or school. Use specific examples to demonstrate how the person has shown those qualities.

Focus on the specific job or school the person is applying for. Try to include qualities and examples that will help them get that position or get into that school.

Feel free to ask the person for whom you are writing the letter for more information. You might ask to see the job listing, their resume, or a list of their related coursework.

Contact Information If you’re writing a formal printed letter, include your contact information, as well as the recipient’s information, at the top of the letter.

Greeting If you are writing a personal recommendation letter, include a salutation to start your letter (Dear Dr. Smith, or Dear Ms. Jones, for example).

Paragraph 1: Introduction Explain why you're writing and how you are connected to the person you are recommending, including how you know them and for how long.

Paragraph 2/3: Why You're Writing Share information on the person you are writing about, including why they are qualified and what they have to offer. It's fine to include more than one paragraph to provide details of the student's academic and work performance. Including examples of how they have excelled is a good way to show how the person is qualified.

Paragraph 4: Summary Write a brief summary of why you are recommending the person. Mention that you "highly recommend" the person, that you "recommend without reservation," or something similar.

Paragraph 5: Conclusion Offer to share more information and let the reader know how to contact you (phone, email, etc.) for a follow-up conversation.

Letter Closing End your letter with a formal letter closing and your name and title. If you are mailing a printed letter, include your signature underneath your typed name: 

Signature (for hard copy letter)

If you’re sending an email, include your contact information in your signature. 

It is a good idea to review recommendation letter examples and templates before you write a recommendation letter or a request for a letter. They can help you decide what kind of content you should include in your document.

A letter template also helps you with the layout of your letter, such as how many paragraphs to include, how to sign the letter, and what elements you need to include (your contact information, for example).

While recommendation letter examples, templates, and guidelines are a great starting point, always tailor a letter to fit the particular situation

Download the recommendation letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more examples.

The Balance

Recommendation Letter Example (Text Version)

Brian Smith 123 Main Street Anytown, CA 12345 555-555-5555 brian.smith@collegemail.edu

March 9, 2024

Emma Johnson Owner Café Bistro 72 Dock Street Pacifica, Oregon 97233

Dear Ms. Johnson,

Daniel Williams worked as a server and manager at Central College’s student café under my supervision for seven semesters, beginning in Spring 2019.

Over that time, I was consistently impressed with his customer service and people management skills, as well as his dedication and good humor. I've often said that if I could clone Daniel, I'd never have to worry about staffing problems again. He's a truly gifted server, fast on his feet, and able to remember complicated orders without using an order pad.

He’s also an innovator. Thanks to his suggestions, we revamped the café menu last year to focus on the most popular dishes and dropped some expensive, time-consuming menu items. The result was a 10% increase in profits.

Our customers love him. More than one has suggested that Daniel become a “super senior,” so that he can stay with us next year. Alas, he’s graduating on schedule, with highest honors and a boatload of references to attest to his skill, hard work, and talent. I’m honored to be one of them.

I enthusiastically recommend Daniel for the position of server/manager in your café. If you have any specific questions about Daniel’s experience and skills, I’m happy to help. Please call me at 555-555-5555.

Brian Smith

Student Coordinator

Central College Café

A character reference is a recommendation written by someone who can attest to one’s character. These letters may be needed for people applying to join an association or purchase a property.

They can be used as an alternative to a professional reference for someone who doesn't have work experience, and they may also be required for jobs that require a high level of trustworthiness.

Who to Ask for a Character Reference

If you have limited work experience (or worry you will get a negative reference from your former employer), you might ask someone to write you a character reference. This might help balance out a negative employer reference.

Consider asking a friend, neighbor, club leader, colleague, or someone else who may never have employed you but can speak to who you are as a person.

What to Include in a Character Reference

If you are asked to write a character reference, focus on the person’s character traits and abilities. You can provide examples from personal interactions with that individual.

Download the character reference letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more examples.

Character Reference Letter Example (Text Version)

Jane Lee 330 Chestnut Street Kerry Springs, Massachusetts 01006

February 3, 2024

Sandra Gomez Program Director Kids at Play, Inc. Centertown, New Hampshire 03225

Dear Ms. Gomez,

Before I had the pleasure of working with Liz Dwyer on our neighborhood cleanup committee, I was her next-door neighbor for 10 years. It didn’t surprise me at all when she was the youngest person to show up for our initial organizational meeting or when she volunteered to take notes and spearheaded the playground project. 

Liz is a very special young person, the kind that gives you hope for the future. It’s not just that she’s organized and dependable, although she is. It’s that she has passion, drive, and a deep optimism for what’s possible. I’ve seen firsthand how she uses that optimism to inspire others and help them see the possibilities in an empty lot or rundown corner. 

I’ve also been impressed with Liz’s growth as an artist. Since she started at Eastern College, her talent has grown. She has used her new skills to improve our neighborhood, rallying the local kids to help her make a mosaic wall for the new playground. 

I know she would be a bright light in your arts program, inspiring and guiding the kids in your care just as she has the kids on our block. I enthusiastically recommend her for the job. Please feel free to reach out to me at jane.lee@email.com or (413)555-6078 with any questions. 

Best regards,

Jane Lee Director, Chestnut Street Block Association

A reference list is a page with a list of your references and their contact information. Send this letter as part of your job application if it is requested. Employers who ask for a reference list might call or email the people on that list and ask them for more information about you.

When creating your reference list, be sure to first ask permission from each person on your list. Not only is this polite, but this will give each person time to prepare a response for the employer. Make sure you provide all the necessary contact information for each person.

What should a student’s letter of recommendation include?

A letter of recommendation for a student should describe their positive qualities, including their academic achievements, interpersonal skills, work ethic, and character. To be effective, the letter should focus on skills and qualifications that are most valuable in the job or program for which the student is applying. 

How long should a recommendation letter be?

A recommendation letter should be at least a few paragraphs long, typically a page or two in length. It should contain specifics that illustrate why the subject is a good candidate for the job or position they’re seeking. The recommender should unreservedly endorse the subject of the letter. 

Georgetown University Center for Research and Fellowships. " Do's and Don'ts of Writing Recommendation Letters ."

How to Write a Letter of Recommendation for a Student [Template Included]

Mike Simpson 0 Comments

By Mike Simpson

If you are a teacher or mentor a young person, there’s a chance that you’ll be asked to do something important: write a letter of recommendation for a student. But if even if you think the student is amazing, if you’ve never created one of these letters before, the idea may be daunting.

Figuring out how to write a letter of recommendation for a student isn’t always easy. After all, you’re essentially vouching for a student’s capabilities, and what you say may determine whether they get into a particular college or land a job.

No pressure, right?

Luckily, writing a letter of recommendation for a student doesn’t have to be a challenge. If you want to make sure you can craft something stellar, here’s what you need to know.

What Is a Letter of Recommendation?

Now, before we talk about how to write a letter of recommendation for a student, let’s take a step back and discuss what this letter is and why they are important.

We’ve previously discussed letters of recommendation in-depth, but here is a quick overview. A letter of recommendation for a student is a document where you share your thoughts about a student’s character and capabilities. Usually, you’ll use examples to highlight what they bring to the table, focusing on those that show why the student would be a great addition to a college or company.

When it comes to getting into college, adding a recommendation letter for a student is a normal part of the process. So much so that the Common App – a standard application accepted by over 900 schools – makes sure that students can submit them with ease.

However, they can also be used in other ways. Scholarship applications may ask for one, for example. With those, the approach is usually similar to the one you’d use to write a letter to a college admissions committee. Along with highlighting a student’s academic success, you can share insights about their personality traits. You could also discuss their volunteer work, community involvement, work experience, or anything else that may be relevant to a scholarship committee, depending on what the award is all about.

If a student wants to land an internship or first job, a letter of recommendation may be required when they apply or could be used to separate them from other candidates. Here, you may focus on their willingness to learn, the quality of their work, their passion for the field, or anything else that aligns with the nature of the role.

In many ways, letters of recommendation are like referrals. You’re saying that you believe in the student’s capabilities to the point that you’re willing to speak up for them. That’s a really big deal.

Common Mistakes When Writing a Letter of Recommendation for a Student, And How to Avoid Them

Many people make mistakes when writing a letter of recommendation for a student. Often, it’s simply because they don’t realize what the potential missteps are, so they don’t know to avoid them.

Certain mistakes are fairly common. Luckily, by learning about them, you won’t fall victim to them.

F irst, being too general is a problem. A recommendation doesn’t carry much weight if it doesn’t feature a few clear examples of why the student is amazing. You need to be specific.

Plus, anecdotes keep your letter from being boring or blending in with the sea of others the recipient is probably reading. Having stellar stories to share that really highlight what the student brings to the table makes your letter memorable. And that’s crucial for highly competitive college programs, internships, scholarships, and jobs.

Second, too many teachers and mentors forget to introduce themselves to the letter recipient. It’s important that they know who you are, how you know the student, and why your opinion should matter to them.

Don’t get us wrong. This doesn’t mean you should spend a lot of time bragging. Instead, just that you need to give them enough information to establish yourself as a valid source of information. Make covering those bases a priority.

Additionally, resist the urge to exaggerate. While some students are incredible, don’t inflate their capabilities or accomplishments. Now, that doesn’t mean you can’t focus on the positive. Just make sure to be honest about what they bring to the table.

Finally, above all else, watch out for spelling, grammar, and other mistakes. The quality of your writing will reflect on the student, so errors can do real harm. So, don’t skip out on proofreading, whatever you do.

How to Write a Letter of Recommendation for a Student (Step-By-Step)

1. request information.

Before you worry about how to write a letter of recommendation for a student, you need to gather some information. Ask the student for an overview of the college program they want to join or the job they’re trying to land. That way, you can highlight relevant examples and tailor the letter to the situation.

2. Start Strong

When you write a letter of recommendation for a student, it’s best to start strong. Let the recipient know immediately that vouching for this student is a pleasure and that you recommend them for the job or academic program.

Usually, you can do this in a single sentence. Let that sentence stand alone, ensuring it is impossible to miss.

3. Introduce Yourself

After you’ve shouted from the mountain tops that you are behind this student completely, introduce yourself in the next. Let them know who you are and how you know the student, keeping this part concise and focused.

4. Give an Overview of Why You’re Recommending Them

In the next paragraph, it’s time for a summary. You want to give them a quick overview of why this student is amazing. You can touch on a whole slew of skills and traits that are relevant to the student’s goals.

5. Share an Anecdote

After you’ve touched on the student’s capabilities, it’s time to back up those claims with an example or two. Make sure to highlight anecdotes that are highly relevant and get to the point quickly. That way, you can make sure the letter is effective without it becoming a novel.

Usually, you’ll spend one to two paragraphs discussing examples. If you find yourself going beyond that, you may want to scale back.

6. Leave the Door Open

In your closing paragraph, invite the recipient of the letter to reach out. Provide your contact information and let them know you’re available to answer questions or discuss the student further.

You can also add that you understand you’re only providing a glimpse into what the student brings to the table and that you’d enjoy a chance to continue singing the student’s praises.

7. Sign Off

After the closing, sign off. Include your name, job title, company or school name, and email address or phone number, at a minimum.

If you’d like, you can include a link to your LinkedIn profile. That can give the recipient a place to learn more about your credentials if they so choose. Just make sure that, if you do, your profile is a shining example of your expertise and great reputation.

8. Review and Edit

Since grammar, spelling, and other errors can actually hurt the student’s application, take a moment to give it a thorough once over. Look for mistakes. Make use of language tools.

If you want to go the extra mile, dump the letter into a text-to-speech app. Sometimes, hearing it said makes mistakes more apparent, allowing you to catch errors you overlooked.

9. Deliver the Letter

How you need to deliver the letter can vary. In some cases, you may need to give it to the student as a printed document or email attachment. At times, you might have to hand it over in a sealed envelope. In other situations, sending it straight to the school or uploading it through an online portal might be necessary.

Review any delivery instructions the student provided. If you didn’t get any instructions, reach out. That way, you can make sure it’s handled properly.

Recommendation Letter Template

If you’re looking for a sample letter of recommendation for a student who’s trying to get into college, you’re in luck. You can use this example as a functional template, adjusting the details as needed. That way, you can personalize the letter, ensuring what’s special about the student shines through.

It could also be adjusted for students who are trying to land internships or jobs. Simply change any references to admission to reflect the position, addressing a hiring manager instead of the admissions committee, and you’re set:

Dear Admissions Committee;

I am happy to strongly recommend John Doe for admission into the Computer Science at ABC College.

My name is Dr. Jane Smith, and I’ve been John Doe’s technology instructor for three years. I have 15 years of experience in teaching in the field and have had the pleasure of working with many students during my time as the head technology instructor. Among them all, John Doe has genuinely been a standout.

John Doe is a passionate student. He adapts to challenges quickly and is always interested in learning about emerging technologies and techniques. Not only has he spent time learning various programming languages on his own, but he’s spent time exploring a range of operating systems, including those designed for desktops and mobile devices.

When I first met John Doe, his enthusiasm for technology quickly shined through. He always asked intelligent questions and found ways to overcome obstacles on his own, researching new techniques whenever the need arose. His final project was a stellar example of his dedication and fortitude, as he created a smartphone application designed to help students excel in the classes he enjoyed. It specifically shared knowledge that he had learned along the way, both inside and outside the classroom.

However, it wasn’t just John Doe’s technical skills and passion that impressed. He also excels when it comes to teamwork, collaboration, leadership, and mentoring. His goal wasn’t just to facilitate his own learning but to ensure the success of his classmates. He frequently tutored students on his own time and guided everyone through group projects while ensuring everyone could contribute and learn.

I genuinely believe that John Doe would be an excellent addition to your program. If you’d like more information, I would be happy to share it. Please feel free to call me at 555-555-1234 or email me at [email address] anytime.

[Signature]

Putting It All Together

Ultimately, with all of the tips above – and the helpful sample – you should have a solid starting point on how to write a letter of recommendation for a student. Just remember to focus on their relevant achievements and offer up clear examples. That way, the recipient of the letter will know exactly what that student is a standout, which should be your primary goal.

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com.

His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others.

Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

About The Author

Mike simpson.

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com. His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others. Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

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5 sample letter of recommendation for students

When your students start their college and higher education applications, they are likely to ask you for a letter of recommendation.

Generally, a letter of recommendation provides an overview and a positive case for a student's higher education application. Often, teachers and educators provide these letters for college and university applications.

Table of Contents

What to include in a letter of recommendation, 1. introduction and salutation, 2. state your support, 3. provide specific details, 4. highlight personal qualities, 5. explain the relationship and observation period, 6. conclude with a strong recommendation, letter of recommendation for students - sample 1, recommendation letter for student from teacher - sample 2, recommendation letter for student from professor - sample 3, letter of recommendation for students - sample 4, letter of recommendation for students - sample 5, 1. what is a recommendation letter for student, 2. how to start a letter of recommendation for a student, 3. how to write a reference letter for a student for university.

Don't miss these proven Letter of Recommendation samples. Download now for free!

A letter of recommendation is important for colleges to see because it provides the admissions officers with an all-around view of the student. Institutions must get as clear a view as possible of a possible student.

In this article, we share three strong examples of positive letters of recommendation that focus on different student strengths. Also, we outline what makes a strong letter and tips on how to form a strong recommendation for your students.

Also read: How to Write a Letter of Recommendation?

Firstly, we explain what you should generally include in any letter of recommendation. When writing your letter, try to include the following features.

• Your contact information.
• The date of writing.
• Contact information of the admissions officer or institution.
• A formal greeting.
• An introduction of your role and relationship with a student.
• Explanations of the student’s strengths and recommendations for them.
• Short real-life examples about the student.
• A conclusion and summary of recommendations.
• Closing paragraph and signature.

Also read: Best Letter of Recommendation Format

How to write a recommendation letter for a student

Writing a recommendation letter for a student requires careful thought and a detailed assessment of the student's abilities, achievements, and character.

Follow these steps to write an effective recommendation letter:

Begin with a formal salutation, addressing the recipient (e.g., "To Whom It May Concern" or use the specific recipient's name if known). Introduce yourself and your relationship to the student, mentioning the capacity in which you know them (e.g., teacher, supervisor, counsellor).

Express your willingness to write the recommendation and state your overall support for the student's application, scholarship, or opportunity they are pursuing.

Offer specific examples of the student's achievements, skills, and qualities that make them a strong candidate. Mention academic performance, leadership roles, extracurricular activities, projects, or any other relevant accomplishments.

Discuss the student's character, work ethic, interpersonal skills, and any personal qualities that make them stand out. Provide anecdotes or examples that illustrate their strengths and positive traits.

Describe the duration and context of your relationship with the student to establish your credibility as a recommender.

Summarise your recommendation and state your confidence in the student's potential for success in the desired opportunity.

Writing an effective recommendation letter for a student involves assessing their abilities, achievements, and character.

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Positive letter of recommendation samples

Here, we share some positive letter of recommendation samples to give you an idea of the content, tone and layout of the document. Also, we provide a short analysis of the good parts of each letter.

These letters are generally positive and should focus on a student's pros and key achievements at school.

Sam Smith (Teacher at School or College) 135 Main Street, Central Town, 77016, Texas 123-123-1234 [email protected] Monday 5th September 2022 Admissions Committee University of Texas, Austin Inner Campus Dr., Austin 78712; Texas Dear Admissions Committee, As John Jones’ teacher, I formally recommend this student for the English undergraduate course at the University of Texas, Austin.  I have taught John in English classes for the past two years and he has been an impressive, creative and hard-working student. John has also displayed a high level of maturity and intellect in English as well as a strong enthusiasm to learn more in this subject. On many occasions, John has displayed his strengths and talent for English. For example, he wrote an excellent analytical essay about the themes in John Steinbeck’s ‘Of Mice and Men’ that used strong examples from the text to highlight his arguments. John also displayed excellent teamwork and leadership skills when completing a group project about ‘The Great Gatsby. John has also contributed to the wider school community on many occasions. This year, he helped to organise a charity fun run to raise money for various charities. The event was well received by staff, parents and students and John received praise for his role in setting up and collecting donations during the event. I have no hesitation in recommending John for the English undergraduate course at the University of Texas, Austin. I am confident he would achieve well on the course and be an asset to your institution. If you have any further questions, please contact me at 123-123-1234. Yours sincerely, Sam Smith

Overall, this sample letter has everything needed for a strong recommendation. It highlights many of the student's academic achievements, showing they are ready for undergraduate study.

Also, the teacher uses real-life examples, such as specific essay writing skills and strong extra-curricular achievements. These help to provide a rounded and positive picture of this student.

The tone is positive and the teacher indicates that they know the applicant as both a student and as a person outside of classes.

Sam Smith (Teacher at School or College) 135 Main Street, Central Town, 77016, Texas 123-123-1234 [email protected] Monday 5th September 2022 Admissions Committee Iowa University Iowa City 52242, Iowa Dear Admissions Committee, With great pleasure, I recommend Sarah Jones for admission to the Mathematics course and Iowa University.  Sarah has been in my mathematics class this year and teaching her has been a privilege. She is a determined student that always gives 100% for every task and she regularly shows an understanding of math topics at an advanced level.  On many occasions, Sarah has shown a willingness to go beyond her class time to improve her math knowledge. For instance, Sarah helped her peers set up a group study programme to help each other revise and prepare for upcoming examinations. This showed initiative, helpfulness and maturity. Beyond her academic studies, Sarah is an active participant in wider school life. Throughout her time at this school, she has taken part in athletics competitions and events and also coached the younger students on occasion. Furthermore, she has received various awards for playing the trumpet in the school band and she took part in a trip to perform at the local concert hall that parents and teachers praised.  I do not doubt that Sarah would be a positive and enthusiastic student at Iowa University. She is a student with many skills that would help her to succeed at the undergraduate level. For any further information or questions, please contact me at 123-123-1234 Yours Sincerely, Sam Smith

This letter of recommendation focuses on the student's ability to go the extra mile to succeed in their studies. It also highlights ways the student worked hard to improve academic grades and standards.

In addition, it looks at the student’s strengths in terms of extra-curricular activities and achievements. This shows how recommendations can pick key events and examples from a student’s time at school that will be useful at university.

Overall, the tone is very formal and it highlights how the student is a proactive member of the school community.

Sam Smith (Teacher at School or College) 135 Main Street, Central Town, 77016, Texas 123-123-1234 [email protected] Monday 5th September 2022 Admissions Committee Northeastern Illinois University 5500 N St Louis Ave 60625, Illinois Dear Admissions Committee, I am writing to you today to provide my recommendation for Steven Sawyer to complete the BA in Justice Studies at Northeastern University, Illinois. I have taught Steven in English for the last two years and he is a dedicated student who is committed to pursuing a long-term career in law. Steven has demonstrated many academic and personal skills that would help him to complete the Justice Studies course. In my classes, Steven has shown advanced analytical skills when looking at evidence and arguments in various high-level literature. This included unpicking the strengths and weaknesses in Benjamin Franklin’s autobiography, which Steven put into a compelling argument in his essay on the topic. Also, he has regularly shown confidence to read passages in class and when presenting arguments and ideas in written and spoken form.  Outside of our English classes, Steven has shown a dedication to a career in law by volunteering at a local law firm during the school holidays. This shows how committed he is to achieve in this career path. Steven has also taken a lead role in the debate club to further his presentation and analysis skills. In conclusion, I highly recommend Steven for the BA Justice Studies course at Northeastern University. He has regularly demonstrated the skills and desire to enroll on this course and he would bring passion to his studies at your institution. Please contact me at 123-123-1234 for any questions or queries. Yours Sincerely, Sam Smith

This example shows how a letter of recommendation can focus on a student’s commitment to a particular area of study or career. At various points, the writer highlights the dedication of the student to start a career in law. This is shown by specific examples in academic achievements, such as strong analytical skills and communication.

However, the letter still focuses on some examples that highlight the student’s personality and interests. For instance, it praises the student’s involvement in extracurricular clubs to show an engagement in activities outside of academia.

Emily Turner English Department Head (Acme Academy) 789 Oak Street Citysville, Stateville 12345  [email protected]  (555) 987-6543 August 1, 2023 Admissions Committee  ABC University 456 University Avenue Townsville, Stateville 67890 Subject: Strong Recommendation for Admission to ABC University - Jake Smith Dear Admissions Committee, I am thrilled to provide a strong letter of recommendation for Jake Smith, a graduating senior at Acme Academy. I have had the pleasure of teaching Jake in my English classes for the past two years, and I am confident that he will be a remarkable addition to ABC University's academic community. Jake Smith is an outstanding student and an exceptional individual. He is graduating in the top 5% of his class with a cumulative GPA of 4.0, making him one of the most accomplished students in his cohort. His dedication to academics is evident in his consistent high performance, and he consistently impresses both his peers and teachers with his analytical abilities and insightful contributions to class discussions. What sets Jake apart from his peers is his unwavering passion for literature and writing. His essays and creative pieces demonstrate a depth of thought and originality that are rarely seen at his age. Whether it's analysing complex literary works or crafting captivating narratives, Jake exhibits an exceptional command of language and storytelling. Beyond his academic achievements, Jake is an active participant in several extracurricular activities. He serves as the President of the School Debate Club, showcasing his exceptional leadership and public speaking skills. He is also a member of the community service organisation, volunteering regularly and displaying a strong sense of civic responsibility. Jake's character is equally impressive. He is a compassionate and empathetic individual who genuinely cares about the well-being of others. He is often seen assisting his classmates, both academically and emotionally, and his positive influence on the school community is palpable. Considering Jake's exceptional academic record, passion for literature, leadership abilities, and outstanding character, I have no hesitation in recommending him for admission to ABC University. I firmly believe that Jake will thrive in your rigorous academic environment and will make a significant positive impact on your campus community. I am confident that Jake Smith's potential as a scholar and a leader will continue to shine brightly at ABC University. If you have any further questions or require additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me at [email protected] or (555) 987-6543. Thank you for considering Jake's application to ABC University. I am certain that he will be an asset to your institution and will contribute greatly to the university's legacy. Sincerely, Emily Turner English Department Head Acme Academy

The above recommendation letter sample for student provides a comprehensive and specific evaluation of the student, Jake Smith, highlighting his academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, leadership abilities, and character traits.

Dr. Sarah Johnson Principal Researcher Tech Innovators Lab 321 Tech Street Innovation City, Stateville 98765 [email protected] (555) 123-7890 August 1, 2023 Scholarship Committee Bright Future Scholarship Foundation 789 Scholarship Avenue Opportunityville, Stateville 54321 Subject: Strong Recommendation for the Bright Future Scholarship - Lisa Thompson Dear Scholarship Committee, I am delighted to provide a strong letter of recommendation for Lisa Thompson, a remarkable student with whom I have had the privilege of working closely at the Tech Innovators Lab. It is my pleasure to endorse Lisa for the Bright Future Scholarship, as I believe she embodies the ideals and aspirations the scholarship aims to support. Lisa Thompson is a high-achieving senior and aspiring computer scientist. Over the past two years, she has been actively involved in our research projects focused on artificial intelligence and machine learning. Lisa's academic performance has been outstanding, consistently earning top grades in advanced math and computer science courses. Her exceptional problem-solving skills and analytical thinking make her an exceptional candidate for this scholarship. Beyond her academic prowess, Lisa has actively engaged in extracurricular activities related to her field of interest. She is the co-founder of the Women in Technology Club at our school, where she encourages and empowers young women to pursue careers in STEM fields. Her leadership in this initiative has had a positive impact on the school community, promoting diversity and inclusion in the technology sector. Lisa possesses remarkable interpersonal skills and has proven herself to be a valuable team player. She excels at collaborating with fellow researchers, displaying strong communication and project management abilities. Her contributions to our research projects have been instrumental in advancing our understanding of AI applications in various industries. In addition to her academic and extracurricular achievements, Lisa's character is exemplary. She is compassionate, empathetic, and always willing to lend a helping hand to her peers. Her commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others is commendable and aligns perfectly with the values of the Bright Future Scholarship. I wholeheartedly recommend Lisa Thompson for the Bright Future Scholarship. Her passion for computer science, outstanding academic achievements, leadership, and commitment to promoting diversity in technology make her a deserving candidate for this scholarship. I have no doubt that she will make significant contributions to the field of computer science and bring positive change to society. If you require any further information or have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at [email protected] or (555) 123-7890. Thank you for considering Lisa Thompson's application for the Bright Future Scholarship. I am confident that she will make the most of this opportunity and continue to shine as a future leader in the tech industry. Sincerely, Dr. Sarah Johnson  Principal Researcher  Tech Innovators Lab

The sample letter of recommendation for student provides a comprehensive evaluation of the student, Lisa Thompson, emphasising her academic excellence in computer science, leadership qualities, and commitment to promoting diversity in the technology field. The recommender offers specific examples of Lisa's achievements in research and her involvement in the Women in Technology Club, highlighting her exceptional problem-solving skills and interpersonal abilities. 

The letter convincingly endorses Lisa's character, emphasising her compassion and empathy. Overall, the detailed assessment and enthusiastic endorsement make this letter a compelling recommendation for the Bright Future Scholarship, showcasing Lisa as a highly deserving candidate with the potential to excel in the tech industry and positively impact society.

Also read: What do you need to do after getting a conditional letter?

When writing a letter of recommendation, ensure you focus on the positives. Also, you must pick two to three of the student’s strong traits. Then, try to recount some key examples where they have demonstrated these skills.

Overall, the letter aims to help your student to stand out to the Admissions Committee. Keeping the letter short, to the point and clear helps the committee to get a snapshot of the student’s capabilities and personality.

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Frequently asked questions

A recommendation letter for student is a reference letter written by a teacher, counsellor, employer, or mentor that evaluates the abilities, achievements, character, and potential of the student.

To start a letter of recommendation for a student, you should address the recipient with a formal salutation and then introduce yourself and explain your relationship to the student, mentioning the capacity in which you know them (e.g., teacher, supervisor, advisor).

To write a reference letter for a student for university, start with a formal salutation, and introduce yourself and your role in the student's life. Mention the duration you have known the student and provide specific examples of the student's academic achievements, skills, and qualities that make them stand out. End the letter with a positive and confident recommendation.

Unlock your potential with a standout Letter of Recommendation. Learn how to secure compelling endorsements that make you shine.

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Writing Letters of Recommendation for Students

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The Purpose of Letters of Recommendation

Recommendation letters are an important piece of the college application. The Princeton Review writes that “competitive colleges use the letter of recommendation to assess [a student’s] passions, goals, and character. They want more than just a statistic.”

As a potential recommendation writer, you are providing an important and integral service for your college-bound student. A good recommendation letter brings the applicant to life on the page. However, writing such a letter can be challenging if you are unaware of the conventions. What follows are some guidelines for high school teachers and guidance counselors for writing good recommendation letters, including knowing what to expect or ask from the student requesting a letter, how to incorporate sensitive or negative information, and what format a letter of recommendation should follow.

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Highlight links, change contrast, increase text size, increase letter spacing, readability bar, dyslexia friendly font, increase cursor size, a student's guide to letters of recommendation.

• Oct 9, 2023
• Estimated Read Time:

Written by: Bella Livingston, Pre-Health Peer Advisor 

What are letters of recommendation?

Letters of recommendation (in the context of applying to a professional school) are letters written by other people, which support your application. They’re written by your professors and people that know you best (coaches, bosses, and any other professional that you’ve developed a relationship with). Admissions committees use them to learn about you as a student, but also to learn about your personal qualities (the transcript can tell them how you are as a student). Recommenders may highlight your intellectual curiosity, energy, relationships with peers, and impact on the classroom/work environment. It is important to ask for recommendations from people who know you well or people willing to get to know you.

Who do I need to ask?

Schools have varying requirements for recommendation letters, which can range from 2-5 letters (so be sure to research your specific schools of interest!)

The most commonly requested number of recommendation letters is three. When applying to most schools, you will need the following three individual letters: 

• Two letters from science professors
• One letter from a non-science professor or other professional

In order to cover all possibilities, especially when you aren't yet sure where you want to apply, we recommend asking for letters from the following people: 

• 2 science faculty members who have taught you in a class
• 1 non-science faculty member who has taught you in a class
• 1 professional in your desired career field
• 1-2 additional letters from individuals who can speak to your qualifications based on work, volunteer, or research experiences (managers/bosses, faculty, etc.)

How do I send my letters?

Schools will require you to connect your letters directly to your primary application (AMCAS, AACOMAS, AADSAS, CASPA, PharmCAS, PTCAS, OTCAS, or OptomCAS). This is done by entering the names and contact information of the people that will evaluate you on your application. An email will then be sent to them and the status of their upload will be updated on your application. 

Some schools will give the option of a letter packet or committee letter instead of individual letters. MSU does not send letter packets or committee letters. This will not affect your application or ability to get accepted, you simply will submit individual letters instead. 

Interfolio, Inc. is also a great option to collect all of your letters confidentially. Have your writers send their letters to this credential file only if you want them collected before the application opens for the cycle when you’re applying (otherwise you can just wait until you can access the application, which will not hinder your potential admission).

Where do I find someone to write a letter for me?

If you have any smaller class sizes, start there, as your professors are more likely to know your face and have some familiarity with your work. 

• Do: Choose a professor that you have rapport with, or who is involved in some way outside the classroom (perhaps they are involved in research or they interact with you while you assist in teaching).
• Don’t: Choose a professor just because you aced their class. If the professor doesn’t have anything interesting to say about you, even though you did well in their class, it would be better if you picked another option as the letter may come off as superficial or lacking the intended context (more info about who YOU are).
• Go to office hours , ask professors about their academic history and develop a conversation where you can discuss their experience in school while sharing your goals. Give them unofficial transcripts, bullet points about your experience and extracurriculars, and more bullet points about what you want to do and why.

Go to a manager or advisor for a job/research/activity you’ve participated in recently over the years.

• Normally these writers will have a lot to say about you as you may have spent a lot of time interacting with them on a weekly basis.

Shadow a professional and gain rapport with them.

• Many health professionals are open to writing letters of rec if approached respectfully and given time. Even after only 2-3 meetings (depending on the length of time and amount of conversation) a person may be willing to write about you if given the opportunity.

What will make my letters of recommendation strong?

When you ask a person to write for you be sure you:

• Write an email/letter explaining what program you’re applying to, why you’re applying to it, and why you’re asking them specifically for the reference (maybe include something you learned in their class, something you aspire to do professionally based on their career, etc.).
• What is unique about you as a person/candidate?
• Make the material you give them succinct, focus on specific areas of your background that you want them to include in your letters, and be accurate. 

If you're asking a professor, keep in mind that: 

• Faculty want to help but are spread thin, so use their time meaningfully. Every faculty member who teaches has office hours, and very few students show up, which is why this is a great time to talk.
• * I know personally how awkward a conversation about a letter of rec can be. Many professors or professionals get asked for several letters each semester and they’re used to students popping the question (the best you can do is ask and then move on if they aren’t comfortable or able to write for you).*

Okay, I asked for a rec and they said yes. Now what?

• Let your recommenders know what schools you are applying to, as well as the earliest deadline.
• Follow up with your recommender as the deadline gets closer. Ideally, your recommender will get it in before the deadline, but following up ensures that you don’t stress if they submit it the day of or even later than you wanted.

For more information

The pre-health website has a section related to letters of evaluation (you can also make an individual appointment with a pre-health advisor).

The AAMC Guidelines for Letter Writers is a great resource to send to potential writers.

• This document also includes core competencies that schools are looking for in applicants. To form a more convincing email/request for a recommendation letter you can explain how you think the class or work you’ve been doing has helped develop one or multiple of these competencies. Try brainstorming which ones you feel confident in and you can explain to a professor how their class helped you grow.

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The Role of Equity in Quality Assurance (September 2022)

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Equity in Access and Student Success Survey (2021)

HLC reports on the findings of a survey of its member institutions on equity in access and student success. Survey participants provided important insights into the diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices currently taking place at their campuses, as well as practical strategies to address inequities among the communities that they serve.

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Key findings of the application of the criteria for accreditation, academic year 2023 (january 2024).

Based on the findings from the comprehensive evaluations conducted in academic year (AY) 2023, September 2022 – August 2023, HLC examines how the Criteria for Accreditation work for member institutions over the years and explores the areas of challenge for institutions.

Key Findings of the Application of the Criteria for Accreditation, Academic Year 2022 (March 2023)

Looking at the data from comprehensive evaluations held between September 2021 and August 2022, this report examines trends in how institutions meet the Criteria for Accreditation, differences across institutional context, and challenges faced by institutions.

Key Findings of the Application of the Criteria for Accreditation, 2017–22 (January 2022)

This retrospective analysis of comprehensive evaluations conducted between 2017–22 sheds light on the evolving nature of quality assurance, areas of challenge faced by institutions, as well as HLC’s efforts to continuously improve processes and strengthen support for the membership.

2023 Institutional Update Data (September 2023)

This report provides a broad overview, coupled with historical context and national trends, of student enrollment, program completion, institutional workforce and financial resources of HLC’s membership.

2022 Institutional Update Data (September 2022)

This report provides an overview of student enrollment, program completion, institutional workforce and financial resources of HLC member institutions. The report also puts these measures into historical and national context, in some ways revealing how the pandemic has impacted institutions since 2020.

2021 Institutional Update Data (September 2021)

This analysis of student enrollment, program completion, workforce, and financial resources, drawn from the 2021 Institutional Update data, demonstrates the strength and resilience of HLC member institutions in times of crisis and disruptive challenges.

Findings of the 2021 Member Survey (May 2022)

Institutional representatives and HLC peer reviewers provide feedback on the value of HLC membership, importance of HLC’s thought leadership and advocacy work, experience with HLC processes, engagement with HLC elective programs, and HLC outreach.

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A report on the findings from a survey of HLC’s membership on institutions’ current alternative credential programs and their needs related to those offerings.

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Corporate leaders offer recommendations on the changing landscape of accreditation and quality assurance, as well as expectations of institutional transparency related to credentials and learner competencies.

Partners for Transformation: Innovation—Beyond the Horizon and the Future of Higher Education (April 2019)

Higher education thought leaders conceptualize 21st-century accrediting practices that assure quality in higher education and ultimately better benefit students in today’s world.

A Space to Innovate (November 2018)

Institutional representatives identify ways for HLC and its members to be more supportive of innovation.

Continuous Improvement of the Substantive Change Process (November 2018)

Institutional representatives offer suggestions for streamlining HLC’s substantive change process, while assuring increased transparency and objectivity for decisions made.

Dual Credit in U.S. Higher Education: A Study of State Policy and Quality Assurance Practices (February 2013)

A descriptive analysis of current dual credit policies across the United States with implications for assuring the quality of dual credit courses that are offered by accredited postsecondary institutions.

Leadership Lessons Learned (July 2024)

HLC President Barbara Gellman-Danley shares her lessons learned as a higher education leader.

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HLC presents the findings from the first phase of its data partnership with the National Student Clearinghouse, in which the Clearinghouse provided HLC with student outcome metrics reported by HLC member institutions in aggregate for use as existing HLC benchmarks.

Testing Student Success Data: Findings and Recommendations (March 2019)

A group of HLC member institutions present their findings and recommendations from research to test variables that affect student success.

Defining Student Success Data Paper Series

Representatives from HLC member institutions, national higher education organizations, state agencies and national data organizations identify ways in which HLC may contribute to the student success conversation.

• Recommendations for Changing the Conversation  (December 2018)
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C-RAC Graduation Rate Survey Summary Report (February 2018)

The Council of Regional Accrediting Commissions (C-RAC) summarizes the results of graduation rate surveys conducted by all regional accrediting agencies that participated in the national initiative.

HLC’s Graduation Rate Survey Findings (July 2017)

HLC presents its findings from a survey on how institutions track students’ academic outcomes, how they work to improve those outcomes, and the contexts affecting specific student populations.

Transfer of Credit and Teach Outs

A new look at transfer admissions (july 2021).

An HLC staff liaison and two institutional representatives explore scenarios when the sudden closure of a college prompted its former students to inquire at other institutions in the area about continuing their studies as transfer students. They offer a rich and candid look at how institutions may provide transfer applicants with both admission and posting of a significant number of transferred credits.

Teach-Out Toolkit (November 2020)

Institutional representatives and representatives from higher education state agencies who have been involved in teach-out situations provide guidance and tools to help institutions prepare for and implement successful teach outs.

A State Perspective on Consumer Protection in the Changing Higher Education Landscape: Practical Steps and Recommendations in Cases of Institutional Closure (September 2019)

Representatives from the Illinois Board of Higher Education provide insight into the work the Board has undertaken to support affected students and other stakeholders when a postsecondary institution closes.

Trends in Higher Ed

2024 trends in higher education (march 2024).

HLC compiles an annual list of higher education trends to inform its work to support member institutions and provide insight into the future of postsecondary education.

Guidelines on HLC Requirements

The following guidelines have been developed to assist institutions and peer reviewers in determining whether an institution is meeting the Criteria for Accreditation or other HLC requirements:

Determining Faculty Qualifications

HLC’s Determining Faculty Qualifications (November 2023) provides guidance to institutions and peer reviewers in evaluating institutional policies and procedures for determining faculty qualifications. The guidelines highlight the Criteria for Accreditation and Assumed Practices that speak to the importance of institutions accredited by HLC employing qualified faculty for the varied and essential roles faculty members perform.

Dual Credit Faculty Qualification Requirements:  During 2016 and 2017, approximately 150 HLC member institutions applied for and received extensions related to their compliance with HLC’s Assumed Practice B.2.a as that requirement applies to dual credit faculty. In June 2022, the HLC’s Board of Trustees extended the deadline for enforcement of faculty qualifications requirements in the context of dual credit education from September 1, 2023, to September 1, 2025. All institutions with dual credit enrollment programs that have previously applied for and received an extension are automatically granted this extension. There is no need to re-apply.

Personally Identifiable Information

HLC has provided guidelines on personally identifiable information (PII), which is defined as any information about an individual that allows the individual to be specifically identified. This includes, but is not limited to: name, address, telephone number, birthday, email, social security number, bank information, etc. A document does not include PII if personal information is de-identified or is provided in the aggregate.

When submitting information and documents to HLC, institutions are asked to carefully consider whether information or documents containing PII must be included. If the information or documents must be included for evaluative purposes, institutions should redact the PII where possible. If redaction of the PII will interfere with the evaluative value of thedocument, institutions should clearly identify the document as containing PII (for example, through a cover page or prominent notation on the document). Institutions are not expected to redact or identify information or documents where the only PII included is employee or Board member names and work contact information.

Dual Credit

These guidelines offer institutions and peer reviewers formal guidance on the evaluation of dual credit activity at member institutions. HLC defines dual credit courses as “courses taught to high school students for which the students receive both high school credit and college credit.” Dual credit programs are reviewed during an institution’s comprehensive evaluation, but also may be reviewed at other times if concerns about the programs arise.

Maintaining Institutional Autonomy

These guidelines are intended to provide member institutions that are not separately incorporated from a parent organization with a framework for how they can satisfy HLC’s expectation that the institution’s governing board is able to demonstrate sufficient autonomy.

School of Record

Institutions acting as a School of Record must be able to ensure academic integrity and transparency in the transcription of coursework taken abroad by students. They also must ensure appropriately trained personnel are evaluating such courses or programs and that the institution has established processes for evaluation that are applied in a consistent fashion. These guidelines highlight the Criteria and Assumed Practices relevant for these institutions.

Two-Year Institutions Seeking to Offer the Baccalaureate Degree

Before launching baccalaureate programs, two-year institutions must seek HLC approval through a substantive change request. These guidelines are meant to assist institutions in an internal review of readiness. The guidelines also serve as a reference to peer reviewers who may be asked to evaluate the change requests.

Evaluating Reduced-Credit Bachelor’s Degree Programs

These guidelines assist institutions and peer reviewers in evaluating reduced-credit bachelor’s degree programs in the context of HLC’s Criteria for Accreditation. The guidelines apply to institutions initially seeking to offer, and then subsequently offering, a reduced-credit bachelor’s degree program. Likewise, the guidance will inform peer reviewers evaluating an application from an institution that is seeking to offer a reduced-credit bachelor’s degree program, or evaluating an institution that is offering such programs.

Position Statements

HLC is an active member of the higher ed community. We work regularly with other higher ed organizations, including the Council for Regional Accreditation Commissions, to communicate with other members of the Triad on issues that matter to you. Check out the Advocacy Agenda to see position statements made by HLC.

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Recommendation systems have driven the growth of platforms that match consumers with products and services. | credit: iStock/Vectorian

When Uber Eats embraced a more data-driven approach in 2019, Yuyan Wang joined the company as an applied scientist and founding member of its data science team. To help keep customers, couriers, and restaurants happy and maximize long-term profits, the team set out to build better recommendations into the food delivery platform.

What’s known as recommender systems are the driving force behind the suggestions you see when you open an app like Uber Eats. They’re powered by algorithms that have been trained to understand what consumers want based on their previous decisions as well as other customers’ behavior. For example, when an Uber Eats customer who likes Tex-Mex opens the app, they might see a selection of restaurants that make fajitas and enchiladas.

These recommendation systems have become key growth drivers for multi-sided platforms — apps that connect multiple customer groups, like buyers and sellers (Amazon, eBay) or drivers and passengers (Uber, Lyft). YouTube has attributed 70% of its watch time to recommendations, while Netflix has reported that personalized suggestions now contribute to 80% of content consumption.

When Wang joined Uber Eats, its recommendations were geared toward getting customers to keep using the app. But they weren’t taking into account restaurants’ or couriers’ goals. Recommending popular restaurants, in theory, may increase the likelihood of consumers placing an order, says Wang, who recently joined Stanford Graduate School of Business as an assistant professor of marketing. But there are unintended consequences that could quickly cascade.

Well-liked restaurants might get over-recommended and then overwhelmed with orders. If they have a bad experience, they may not recommend Uber Eats to other restaurant owners. Customers would be annoyed by late deliveries and may not come back to the platform. Furthermore, delayed orders could make couriers late, putting a dent in their tips. More importantly, new or low-volume restaurants might not get the exposure they’re expecting and opt to leave the platform. In the long term, this would result in fewer restaurants using the platform, which would mean a worse experience for consumers due to lack of selection.

“When you optimize for only one side, it hurts other sides and ultimately the business,” Wang says. “For a platform to be successful in the long term, you need to model and take into account all sides of the business. It’s more profitable that way.”

In a new paper , Wang and Long Tao and Xian Xing Zhang of Uber Technologies show how they developed a new recommender system for Uber Eats that considers the often competing goals of multi-sided platform participants. The multi-objective hierarchical recommender, or MOHR, is a system that companies across industries – from Netflix to Etsy – can use to improve customer recommendations.

Upgrading the carousel

Wang and her colleagues’ recommender system is the first to mathematically and holistically make customer recommendations in ways that benefit multiple stakeholders. The system also addresses the challenge of ranking and arranging suggestions on a page.

When the researchers began the project, Uber Eats didn’t have a dedicated mathematical framework for organizing carousels of recommendations where customers could scroll through categories like “Healthy Eats” or “Can Be Delivered in 25 Minutes.” “Carousels help to alleviate the co-start issue, or the problem of not knowing what to recommend to new customers,” Wang says. “But platforms also have trouble ranking and arranging these carousels together with single restaurants on the same page” — much less in real time and in a personalized way.

Many platforms’ solution had been to use a mishmash of disjointed rules or expensive machine learning systems to make ranking decisions. “Our system gives platforms a holistic and mathematically principled way to do it,” Wang says.

The researchers conducted a field experiment, applying their recommender system to 2% of Uber Eats’ global consumers. The results showed significant improvements in consumer conversion, retention, and gross bookings. If the system had been applied to all consumers, they estimated Uber Eats would have seen a $1.5 million weekly increase in revenue. The company has since deployed the recommender system globally on its app homepage.

Wang and her colleagues designed their system with multiple modules so developers at different companies could use it piecemeal based on their unique needs. “Maybe you don’t have a hierarchical presentation on your page, but you do care about competing objectives,” she says. “You can use the system in a modularized fashion.” The system can also optimize one-sided platforms like news sites or clothing sellers.

Beyond the black box

The system syncs well with Wang’s overarching research interests, which lie in the intersection of marketing, machine learning, and statistics. After working at Uber, she was a senior research engineer at Google DeepMind, a job she held for four years. “I loved my jobs,” she says. “You can see the immediate, tangible impact of your work. When you order Uber Eats today, the recommendations are still powered by this framework, so it was a really fantastic experience.”

Wang moved into academia because she wanted to better understand and improve the long-term values of personalized products and services. “Over the years, more people have realized that recommender systems focused on short-term engagement goals can lead to more clickbaity, poor content,” she says. “I want to optimize long-term metrics, such as gaining repeat customers and getting customers to have a more fulfilling and meaningful long-term experience on the platform.”

More broadly, Wang is interested in using theory and behavioral insights to help design more transparent machine learning systems. She sees flaws in current design methods such as the black box model, in which developers cannot see the factors algorithms use to generate a given output. In another new paper , she details a collaboration with Google researchers where they tested a recommendation framework on YouTube that considers consumers’ intent when making predictions instead of relying on pure black-box approaches as most platforms do.

“More data and more computing power may make new AI models more powerful,” Wang says. “But you don’t really know why a consumer behaves in a certain way on the platform or why certain model architectures work better than the others. This is not the most sustainable way of doing AI research.”

“It’s great that more and more people are excited to leverage AI and machine learning to solve real-world business problems,” she says. “I’m excited to bridge that gap, and I see great potential for these two communities to be closer to each other and to leverage each other’s strengths.”

A Deep Learning-Based Hybrid CNN-LSTM Model for Location-Aware Web Service Recommendation

• Open access
• Published: 16 September 2024
• Volume 56 , article number  234 , ( 2024 )

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• Ankur Pandey 1 ,
• Praveen Kumar Mannepalli 2 ,
• Manish Gupta 3 ,
• Ramraj Dangi 4 &
• Gaurav Choudhary 5  

Advertising is the most crucial part of all social networking sites. The phenomenal rise of social media has resulted in a general increase in the availability of customer tastes and preferences, which is a positive development. This information may be used to improve the service that is offered to users as well as target advertisements for customers who already utilize the service. It is essential while delivering relevant advertisements to consumers, to take into account the geographic location of the consumers. Customers will be ecstatic if the offerings displayed to them are merely available in their immediate vicinity. As the user’s requirements will vary from place to place, location-based services are necessary for gathering this essential data. To get users to stop thinking about where they are and instead focus on an ad, location-based advertising (LBA) uses their mobile device’s GPS to pinpoint nearby businesses and provide useful information. Due to the increased two-way communication between the marketer and the user, mobile consumers’ privacy concerns and personalization issues are becoming more of a barrier. In this research, we developed a collaborative filtering-based hybrid CNN-LSTM model for recommending geographically relevant online services using deep neural networks. The proposed hybrid model is made using two neural networks, i.e., CNN and LSTM. Geographical information systems (GIS) are used to acquire initial location data to collect precise locational details. The proposed LBA for GIS is built in a Python simulation environment for evaluation. Hybrid CNN-LSTM recommendation performance beats existing location-aware service recommender systems in large simulations based on the WS dream dataset.

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1 Introduction

To advertise an item or service in a particular region, a business may use LBA (location-based advertising) [ 1 , 2 ]. The term "location-based advertising," or "LBA" for short, describes a specific category of location-based services that make use of geolocation data gathered from mobile devices like smartphones. LBA might potentially be utilized to hire seasonal or full-time staff for a neighbourhood company. LBA allows merchants to send location-specific, timely communications to consumers. Advertisers may target consumers with various messages based on their physical location by using their GPS coordinates. Allowing marketers to contact consumers while they are physically close to their stores has broken down formerly insurmountable barriers between marketplaces and consumers [ 3 ].

Recommendation systems (RSS) use a variety of filtering approaches, all of which are described here. Collaborative filtering is the approach that is most often used. A large number of online service recommendation systems are being developed based on collaborative filtering (CF). The analysis of the quality of service-aware web service suggestions and customized QoS-aware web service recommendations is discussed in detail [ 4 ]. Many of the most common customer-facing tactics are based on user-based or item-based approaches. The Matrix Factorization (MF) method stands out as one of the most effective approaches [ 5 ]. It leverages hidden vector attributes to represent individuals or items, initially mapping them into a shared latent space [ 6 ]. While MF has demonstrated considerable success, numerous adaptations and variations have emerged [ 7 , 8 ]. However, despite its effectiveness, MF-based strategies continue to grapple with challenges like cold-start and data sparsity problems [ 9 , 10 ], significantly limiting the efficacy of current methodologies.

It is important to include the geographical data that is often a part of the customer database when clustering the data to generate customer segments, including, in response, selecting where the channels of distribution need to be positioned. In recent years, geo-marketing has seen an uptick in the practice of clustering geo-referenced (or spatial) data, although conventional clustering approaches have shown certain limits in light of the industry’s rising need for precision and consistency [ 11 ]. To maximize the effectiveness of customized targeting through the right channels, consumer segmentation must be both precise and homogeneous.

Current Challenges The existing environment of location-based advertising and recommendation systems is fraught with difficulties. The commonly used matrix factorization (MF) technique in recommendation systems encounters data sparsity and cold-start concerns. The drawbacks of this strategy impede system efficiency, particularly when dealing with sparse data or new user interactions. Furthermore, typical clustering algorithms [ 12 , 13 ] are proven to have drawbacks in the realms of geo-marketing and clustering geo-referenced data for consumer segmentation. These difficulties come as a result of the industry’s increased demand for precision and consistency, making precise consumer segmentation harder to attain using traditional clustering methods. Furthermore, analytic methodologies for independent consumer data encounter difficulties when dealing with vast and complicated geographic datasets, reducing the depth and accuracy of insights derived from exploratory data analysis.

Proposed Solutions Proposed Solutions: The proposed solutions outlined in this study aim to address challenges within recommendation systems and geo-marketing by exploring various methodologies. Firstly, alternatives to Matrix Factorization and strategies to mitigate data sparsity and enhance cold-start handling are investigated [ 14 , 15 ]. Additionally, the development of hybrid models merging collaborative and content-based filtering or incorporating contextual information is suggested for more robust recommendations [ 16 , 17 , 18 ]. In the realm of geo-marketing, the study proposes exploring advanced clustering techniques, potentially integrating machine learning algorithms to manage large geographic datasets effectively. Furthermore, advocating for the utilization of complex analytic approaches, such as machine learning models or deep learning methods, to extract meaningful insights from multidimensional datasets for independent customer data analysis is emphasized. Successful implementation of these recommended solutions in real-world scenarios would require collaboration among data scientists, domain experts, and industry stakeholders. This research proposes, different deep learning-based approaches that are applied to perform the prediction, and the names of these are the LSTM and CNN, with the employ of these models, a hybrid model is built to implement this research, and the name of this hybrid model is hybrid CNN-LSTM model the location-aware web service recommendation.

Customers are independent whenever it comes to exploratory data analysis, even though most commercially available GIS provides for substantial storage, editing, and display of geo-referenced data [ 19 ]. Due to the extensive size and high complexity of geographic data, as well as the need for sophisticated data integration and mining tools, this strategy is impractical. When a dataset has a lot of dimensions, it might be difficult for analytic techniques to work properly. It is a common issue that not all of the variables will have a significant relationship with one another. Most analyses assume a very basic pattern, which may be adjusted according to several criteria, and so restrict or compress the field of possible hypotheses [ 20 ]. It is recommended that the many artificially enabled location-based services (LBS) in mobile ads make use of deep learning methods such as long short-term memory (LSTM), convolutional neural networks (CNN), recurrent neural networks (RNN), and artificial neural networks (ANN) [ 21 ].

The following article structures the remaining article as follows: The background and related work on location-based advertising have been discussed in Sect. 2 . Section 3 talks about the proposed work, including location-based advertising and service methods for an identified problem. In Sect. 4 , we discuss the experimental results of the suggested approaches and make comparisons to other current methods; in Sect. 5 , we conclude and provide directions for future study.

2 Related Work

Location-based services (LBS) is a broad and evolving field that encompasses various technologies and applications. In this section, we are giving a detailed survey on LBS. Related research on LBS is presented here.

Tan et al. [ 22 ] used a partial least squares structural method to analyze advertising on social media. In addition, an integrated framework based on interaction theory, individual variables, and the mobile technology acceptance model was used to comprehend customer preferences. Li and Xu [ 23 ] proposed a diversity-aware digital ad architecture to adequately meet their clients’ needs (D-AdFeed). The knapsack problem, with several possible solutions, was used to frame this issue. Both greedy and genetic algorithms were used to find a solution. Goh et al. [ 24 ] used Logit and Poisson count models to analyse the search patterns and ad clickthrough rates. By developing a tailored mobile advertising system, Li and Du [ 25 ] were able to provide shoppers and businesses with contextually aware advertisements.

Utilising an ensemble-based approach, Haider et al. [ 26 ] investigated fraudulent practices in mobile ads. Consumers’ familiarity with location-based advertising was measured using the persuasiveness needed for planning by Ryu and Park [ 27 ]. To examine why customers make repeat purchases, Lu et al. [ 28 ] introduced the theory of the planned model. Shin and Lin [ 29 ] studied consumer opinions and their propensity to ignore advertisements. Yang et al. [ 30 ] (2013) integrated an advertising model based on technological and emotional evaluations. Sharma et al. [ 31 ] used a neural network and partial least squares structure to increase consumers’ receptivity to mobile marketing.

According to [ 32 ] analyse the LBSs’s privacy-preserving strategies. They classify and provide an in-depth analysis of the current methods. They found the main ideas and most recent progress in several common works from each group and then analysed them in the past. For new study possibilities, we also talk about how privacy-preserving methods can be used in LBSs. This survey, which offers a current and thorough summary of previous research, may encourage further investigations into this promising field.

In [ 33 ] research examines the feasibility of using workers’ smartphones as a legitimate tool for employers to do presence control. In addition, they suggest a mobile location-aware information system that satisfies universal access requirements, uses only reactive location technologies based on terminals and allows for non-intrusive presence control while keeping costs down. Encouraging workers to feel comfortable and in control of when their location data is collected while meeting the employer’s control demands is the main emphasis. Using UAProf data processing at the origin server and A-GPS terminal-based/network-aided mobile positioning algorithms, the LAMS platform is a cutting-edge framework for synchronous mobile location-aware content personalisation.

This study [ 34 ] provides the creation of a set of fake query sequences to conceal mobile users’ query locations and query characteristics and safeguard their privacy in LBS. First, they provide a framework that is centred on the client and aims to safeguard user privacy in LBS. This framework does not need any modifications to the LBS algorithm used on the server side, and it also ensures that the accuracy of an LBS query remains unaffected. Second, they propose a privacy model within the framework to establish the criteria that ideal dummy query sequences should adhere to. These criteria include: (1) maintaining a similar feature distribution, which assesses the ability of the dummy query sequences to conceal the true user query sequence, and (2) ensuring a high level of user privacy protection, which evaluates the effectiveness of the dummy query sequences in safeguarding the location and query privacy of a mobile user. Finally, they provide an implementation approach that meets the privacy model’s requirements. Furthermore, both theoretical analysis and actual assessment reveal the usefulness of our proposed technique, demonstrating that the location and attribute privacy underlying LBS inquiries may be successfully safeguarded by the fake queries created by our approach.

The author [ 35 ] offers a wide range of scientific data for many study topics that are used by the associated scientific groups. Frequently, these websites’ architecture or design does not match the way their customers think. Consequently, the desired data is not easily accessible. Scientific online information services may benefit from the methods developed by Usability Engineering and User Experience to better understand and meet the needs of their users. An easy-to-implement method for evaluating and improving scientific online information services is detailed in this article. Combining personas, usability inspections, online questionnaires, Kano models, and web analytics with other techniques that have previously been effectively used in reality makes up this approach.

In [ 36 ] the research suggests an Explainable Food Recommendation system to support its suggestions using the visual content of food. In particular, a new similarity score is created and included in the suggestion. This score is based on a propensity measure that quantifies the degree to which the user community favours a certain cuisine category. To improve the recommendation outcome’s openness and interpretability, a rule-based explainability is finally added. Our results on a crawled dataset demonstrate that compared to other food recommendation methods, the suggested approach improves recommendation quality by 7.35%, 6.70%, 7.32%, and 14.38%, respectively, in terms of recall, precision, F1, and Normalised Dis-counted Cumulative Gain (NDCG). Additionally, they conduct ablation studies to prove that our recommendation system’s components are technically sound.

In this study, [ 37 ] the author proposes to provide a novel strategy called Recommendation Based on Embedding Spectral Clustering in Heterogeneous Networks (RESCHet). This approach makes use of the embedding spectral clustering method, whose similarity matrix is produced using a heterogeneous embedding technique. Subsequently, they used the notions of submit-paths and atomic meta-paths to identify the connections among people and things relevant to every cluster. Finally, by calculating the Hadamard product between the pertinent vectors, they produced user suggestions. Tests conducted on three publicly available benchmark datasets have shown that RESCHet performs noticeably better than the current methods.

In this study [ 38 ], a recommender system that relies on Facebook user behaviour was created, and it provides consumers with the option to purchase their favourite things in two stages. The consumers’ behaviour is examined in the first phase, and items are provided to them depending on their interests. In the second step, the recommender system uses data mining methods to provide consumers with offers that are related to their past purchases. The study’s data are accurate, and the findings are reliable. Furthermore, the findings show that the developed recommender system is quite accurate in presenting offers to consumers (Table 1 ).

2.1 Research Gap

Certain gaps become apparent within the current corpus of research concerning location-based services and advertising. To begin with, although research has examined digital advertising architectures and customer preferences, more extensive inquiries are required to determine the efficacy and consequences of location-based advertising interventions for consumers. Present models predominantly concentrate on concerns about advertising, customer preferences, and recommendation systems. Consequently, there exists a knowledge vacuum concerning the complexities linked to location-based mobile advertisements, including the need to minimise intrusiveness while optimising openness. Furthermore, the investigation into energy-efficient and secure routing protocols for wireless sensor networks highlights the criticality of further research into the intersection of energy efficiency and security in location-based services. Moreover, a comprehensive examination of the integration of user-generated text and geographical data for spatial market segmentation is lacking. Finally, although recent research has examined privacy concerns in location-based advertising, there remains a dearth of knowledge regarding the continual creation of strategies for successfully addressing these concerns in light of the growing relationship between advertisers and mobile users. By recognising and rectifying these deficiencies, one can enhance the overall comprehension of the complexities and potentialities that lie within the dynamic domain of location-based advertising and services. In contrast to prior investigations, the present study employs GIS to acquire accurate location data by integrating geographical context into the word embedding procedure. Innovating the application of advanced deep learning techniques to location-based advertising is exemplified by the creation of a Bidirectional Optimised Hybrid Model (BLSTM-DNN-ASOA) and the implementation of a deep sparse autoencoder (DSAE) for feature extraction. The efficacy of a proposed model is demonstrated by a comprehensive set of evaluation metrics, which comprise F-measure, precision, accuracy, computational time, AUC, and recall. Through the attainment of enhanced performance compared to prior approaches, this article makes a significant contribution to the advancement of knowledge and implementation of deep learning in the domain of location-based advertising. As a result, it provides industry practitioners and academics with invaluable insights.

3 Methodology

3.1 convolutional neural network (cnn).

Among the various applications for deep neural networks, image and video processing are among the most common. This is especially true with convolutional neural networks (CNNs). There has been a rise in the use of convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to analyze numerical data, including time series and sensor data, in recent years [ 48 ]. The main idea behind CNNs for numeric data is to apply the convolution operation to local temporal windows of the input data, allowing the network to learn temporal patterns and dependencies in the data. CNNs are effective at capturing both local and global patterns in time series data, making them suitable for various applications such as time series forecasting, anomaly detection, and signal processing. Despite their effectiveness, CNNs for numeric data still face some challenges, such as dealing with missing data and handling long-term dependencies. Recent advances in research have focused on developing more robust and efficient CNN architectures, such as the WaveNet and Temporal Convolutional Network (TCN) models, which have shown promising results in various applications. In addition to numeric data, CNNs have also been used for other types of data, such as text and graphs, demonstrating their versatility and potential to advance the field of deep learning. Overall, CNNs represent a powerful tool for processing various types of data, and their continued development and optimization have the potential to advance the field of artificial intelligence and its applications in various domains [ 49 ]. In Fig.  1 , we see the basic structure of a convolutional neural network (CNN) that may be used to classify images.

A typical CNN will include the following layers: input, convolution, ReLU, pooling, and completely connected

Input The raw pixel values are stored in this layer, as the name implies. The original data for a photograph may be seen in its "raw" pixel values.

Convolution Being the primary processing node, this layer is an essential component of convolutional neural networks.

ReLU Activation-function-using layer: a layer that takes the output of the previous layer and utilizes it to activate its output (also called a rectified linear unit layer). RELU’s addition to the network’s non-linearity would take another form.

Pooling The pooling layer is another part of convolutional neural networks. Pooling operations refer to the act of combining the values of neighbouring features into a single one by using either an average or a histogram operator. The incorporation of pooling into the model has several goals, the primary ones being to make the model immune to local distortions and to reduce the total number of features [ 50 ].

Fully Connected Moreover, this layer might be referred to as the "output" layer or the fully linked layer. It is used in the determination of class score output, the outcome of which is a voluminous 1*1*L array, where L is the integer representing the class score.

Convolutional neural network (CNN)

3.2 Long Short Term Memory (LSTM)

LSTMs, like RNNs, are composed of many interconnected layers, but the interactions between these four levels occur differently. There are memory cells in the LSTM model, and gates control them. There are three distinct types of entrance gates (input gate, output gate, and forget gate). These gates, which control the flow of data like dials, are responsible for mixing the data. To alter the data in an LSTM, these gates are used. A fixed quantity of training data may be stored in the memory module. Cell state memory is the memory unit that gives LSTM the ability to recall long-term dependencies. There are three primary varieties of gates: the forget gate, the I/P gate, and the O/P gate [ 51 ]. Short-term and long-term memories are stored in different types of memory cells. It reminds me of a conveyor belt in certain ways. It permeates the whole sequence and has only minimal pointwise operations with the gates. LSTM is an excellent tool for classifying processes and making predictions based on time series over a given amount of time [ 52 ].

Hidden State An LSTM layer’s output, known as the hidden state, is used as input in the layer that follows it. To indicate how much of each piece should be sent, the sigmoid layer produces values between 0 and 1. The Tanh layer produces new state-enhancing vectors.

Forget Gate The data stored in a memory cell may be removed using the forget gate. If the situation changes, the forget gate will produce zeros, which the memory cell will pointwise multiply, erasing the associated data. The sigmoid layer then generates a vector with values between 0 and 1.

Input Gate The I/P gate of the state cell decides if the input needs to be looked at more closely to see if data needs to be entered (or changed). For example, the output from the previous iteration ot-1, the I/P tx, and the initial condition of iteration ct-1 are all examples of inputs that may need to be looked at more closely. This is put point-first into the memory cell.

Output Gate The final product will be an abstracted version of the current state of memory. The amount of information sent from the visible state of the cell to the hidden state is managed by the output gate. Then, we choose which features of the cell will go to the hidden layer, which is the sigmoid layer (Fig. 2 ). The cellular state is multiplied by the sigmoid gate’s output after a tanh-tanh transformation, producing values between -1 and 1.

Long Short Term Memory (LSTM)

4 Proposed Model

An in-depth description of the suggested model and its accompanying algorithm are presented here, together with a discussion of the research process used to develop it.

4.1 Problem Identification

Establishing a measure of service quality is the primary obstacle to service recommendation (QoS). Location-based advertising is a popular advertising strategy that targets users based on their geographical location. However, existing location-based advertising methods have limited accuracy and effectiveness due to several factors, such as inaccurate location data, a limited understanding of user behaviour, and a lack of personalized targeting. Deep learning techniques can provide a solution to these problems by leveraging complex models to analyze and interpret user data, which can be used to generate personalized and effective location-based advertising.

Therefore, the problem for location-based advertising using deep learning is to develop accurate and effective models that can leverage user data to generate personalized advertising recommendations based on their geographical location. This requires addressing the following challenges: data quality, user behaviour modeling, personalization, and privacy concerns. In solving these challenges, developing deep learning models is required to effectively analyse and interpret location data to generate personalized advertising recommendations that are relevant and effective for individual users while also addressing privacy concerns.

4.2 Research Methodology

In this study, we mix conventional and deep learning techniques to create a hybrid model for predicting the popularity of location-based services based on user recommendations. Python is used for the actual implementation. This is accomplished by using the freely available WS-Dream dataset. There are a total of 5,825 services and 19,74,675 QoS values from 339 users. Then the collected dataset was preprocessed using different data preprocessing techniques. In the data preprocessing, handling and filling in the missing values, and also using the Z-score normalization technique for data normalization. In addition, the min-max method is used for data scaling. In this work, features are identified and extracted in the feature extraction, and the Pearson correlation coefficient is also calculated in the correlation analysis. Then, split the dataset into two sets: train sets and test sets, and the ratio of training and testing is 80 and 20. After this process, different deep learning approaches are applied to perform the prediction, and the names of these are LSTM and CNN. With the use of these models, a hybrid model is built to implement this research, and the name of this hybrid model is the hybrid CNN-LSTM model. The correctness of the proposed model was evaluated using several statistical metrics, including the average absolute error, root mean squared error, coefficient of determination, etc. Finally, the proposed hybrid CNN-LSTM model may be used to forecast the QoS values of online services at indicated locations.

4.3 Hyperparameter Tunning

The design of the hybrid CNN-LSTM model for predicting location-based service popularity in this research included the use of many crucial hyperparameters. The architecture of the model was determined by setting the amount of LSTM units and CNN filters to 64, which influenced its ability to collect both temporal and spatial data efficiently. The learning rate of 0.001, an important hyperparameter, was carefully chosen to manage the step size of the optimization process, which influences the model’s convergence pace. Another critical parameter, the dropout rate of 0.3, was used to prevent overfitting, with its value controlling the proportion of neurons randomly destroyed during training. To balance training speed and memory limitations, the batch size of 64, which represents several samples processed in every iteration, was determined. A number of epochs, which represents iterations throughout the full training dataset, was a critical hyperparameter influencing training length and model convergence. Non-linearity was introduced by carefully selecting activation functions in the layers, such as ReLU for CNN and sigmoid or tanh for LSTM. The optimizer (Adam) and the loss function (typically Mean Squared Error (MSE) or others adapted to the prediction task) further influenced the model’s performance. These hyperparameters worked together to fine-tune the model’s prediction capabilities, with optimization carried out through extensive experimentation and validation on training and validation datasets.

4.4 Dataset Collection and Description

For this research, the WS-Dream dataset is utilized to assess how well the suggested method works. QoS values from several users across multiple services may be found in the WS-Dream dataset, a massive web services dataset. To evaluate the efficacy of our proposed algorithm, the dataset’s inclusion of location data for both users and services makes it a particularly suitable candidate. The WS-Dream dataset includes 19,74,675 quality of service metrics, collected from 339 users over 5,825 services. There is a wide range of possible quality of service metrics, including throughput, response time, reliability, and availability. QoS data was shown as a user-service matrix, with people in the rows and services in the columns, to make it easier to analyze (Table 2 ).

4.5 Data Preprocessing

The suggested method would benefit from the addition of the Autonomous System Number (ASN). The utilized dataset included customers from 30 countries and 136 ASNs and services from 73 countries and 990 ASNs. To guarantee the algorithm’s success, we preprocessed the data in question. It included dealing with missing values, which may arise from some causes, including improper data input or inadequate data gathering. Imputation was used to manage missing values, which entails replacing them with approximated values based on the existing data. In this research, we imputed missing values using the attribute’s mean value using a process called mean imputation. Including CN and ASN attributes into the algorithm required using Sklearn’s category encoding transforms the labeled features into numerical embeddings. This allowed us to express each classified attribute as a nation code, which can be used to generate personalized ads for each user based on their location. Furthermore, we also performed data normalization to ensure that all the attributes had the same scale, which is important for many machine learning algorithms to function correctly. Z-score normalization, whereby the numbers of every feature are adjusted precisely to have a mean of zero and a standard deviation of one, was also utilized. Finally, we also performed feature scaling to ensure that all the features had similar ranges, which is necessary for some algorithms to function properly. All features are also scaled to fall inside the range [0, 1] using the Min-Max scaler approach. Overall, these pre-processing steps helped us to ensure that the data was in a suitable format for machine learning algorithms to be applied and improved the accuracy and effectiveness of the proposed model.

4.6 Feature Extraction

What we mean by "feature extraction" is the transformation of unstructured data into discrete characteristics that may be used in subsequent analyses without losing any of the original data’s context. In this study, we use feature extraction methods to zero in on the data points that will be most useful to our model. We employed a method called correlation analysis, which entails determining how closely each characteristic is linked to the desired outcome (here, the user’s choice for a certain service). The model places a premium on features that have a strong correlation with the dependent variable. The Pearson correlation coefficient between each characteristic and the outcome variable was determined for examination of correlation. The Pearson correlation coefficient, which may also take on ranges around -1 and 1, is used to measure the linear connection between two variables. There is a perfect positive correlation when the value is 1, no connection at all when the value is 0, and a perfect negative correlation when the value is -1.

Based on the correlation analysis, we identified the most relevant features for this proposed model. These features were then used as input variables for our algorithm, and with careful feature selection, we were able to boost the model’s accuracy and performance. Overall, feature extraction techniques such as correlation analysis can be useful in identifying the most important features of a machine learning model, which can improve its accuracy and efficiency.

4.7 Data Splitting

Machine learning often makes use of data splitting to separate data into distinct groups. There should ideally be three distinct sets of information: "train," "validation," and "test.". Dividing data is advised to improve the amount of training data in each dataset. In training and testing, data is often divided 80:20 or 70:30. For moderate-sized datasets, dividing the data into three equal parts–70% training, 20% validation, and 10% testing–is suggested. For this study, we created a training set with 80% of the data and a testing set with 20%. (20% of total information).

4.8 Proposed Hybrid CNN-LSTM Model

Here, we present a hybrid approach that utilizes LSTM and CNNs, and we evaluate it using the WS-Dream dataset. Quality of Service (QoS) measurements from many users across multiple providers may be found in the WS-Dream dataset. Due to the inclusion of user and service locations, this dataset is ideal for testing the efficacy of the suggested approach. The proposed CNN-LSTM model takes in user ratings of web service quality from the WS-Dream dataset. Quality-of-service (QoS) indicators are used to train a convolutional neural network (CNN) to extract high-level spatial features from an input dataset. The LSTM receives the CNN’s output and learns to successively process the features while capturing their temporal relationships. For the LSTM part, we employed cells that can remember and pass along information about their surroundings over very long periods. The WS-Dream dataset was used to teach the hybrid model, which has 19,74,675 QoS values across 339 users and 5,825 services. Response time, throughput, availability, and dependability are just a few examples of the many QoS variables that may be measured. This article describes the deep learning models and their architectures that were utilized to produce this hybrid model (Fig. 3 ).

Structure of Proposed Hybrid CNN-LSTM model

5 Experimental Results and Analysis

Here, we report on our experiments with Python-based location-based services applied to the WS-Dream dataset. The success of the proposed method may be measured in two ways.

5.1 Evaluation Metrics

RMSE and MAE are common statistical assessment metrics used to determine how well the provided method performs.

Mean Absolute Error (MAE) While calculating the mean absolute error, the errors are not squared. The absolute value of the mistakes is determined and then averaged. We only care about the magnitude of the difference between the estimated and real target values; hence, the MAE uses the absolute value. This prevents the MAE from being inaccurately calculated due to mistakes cancelling each other out. The formula for RMSE is as follows Eq.  5 .

In this formula: MAE represents the Mean Absolute Error. n: is the number of data points or observations. \(y_i\) : represents the actual or observed values. \(x_i\) : represents the predicted or estimated values for the corresponding observations.

Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) The Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) is calculated by averaging the squared errors over all samples and then squaring the result. This is similar to the Mean Squared Error (MSE) but with a square root instead of a plus sign. This allows RMSE to produce an error metric that is consistent with the target variable’s measurement system. If next year’s sales are our objective y, then the RMSE will offer the error in dollars, whereas the MSE will give the error in dollars squared, which is considerably less comprehensible. The formula for RMSE is as follows Eq.  6 .

In this formula: RMSE represents the Root Mean Square Error. n: is the number of data points or observations. \(y_i\) : represents the actual or observed values. \(x_i\) : represents the predicted or estimated values for the corresponding observations.

The selection of RMSE and MAE as evaluation metrics for this research is driven by their interpretability, sensitivity to outliers, and suitability for model optimisation. The measures used provide a fair assessment of both the average magnitude of mistakes and the consequences of bigger deviations. The combination of RMSE and MAE allows for a comprehensive evaluation that aligns with specific characteristics and priorities of a dataset and a recommendation system in the domain of location-aware recommendations, where the goal is to provide accurate and meaningful suggestions to users.

This section provides visual representations of the different WS-Dream dataset-based trial results. The output for the WS-Dream dataset utilized is presented in the form of graphs and tables below.

Table 3 , showcases a performance result of a proposed Hybrid CNN-LSTM model, evaluated employing the WS-Dream dataset. For the metric of Response Time, the MAE and RMSE exhibit a decreasing trend as the density increases from 0.5 to 0.25, with the lowest MAE and RMSE observed at a density of 0.25. Specifically, at a density of 0.25, the MAE is 0.359 and the RMSE is 0.1388. Similarly, for Throughput, both MAE and RMSE decrease as density increases, with the lowest values again observed at a density of 0.25. At this density, the MAE is 12.764, and the RMSE is 37.874. These results suggest that increasing density leads to improved performance of the Hybrid CNN-LSTM model in predicting both RT and Throughput metrics for location-aware web service recommendation tasks.

Table 4 , showcases a performance result of a proposed Hybrid CNN-LSTM model, evaluated employing the WS-Dream dataset. For the metric of Response Time, the MAE and RMSE exhibit a decreasing trend as the density increases from 0.5 to 0.25, with the lowest MAE and RMSE observed at a density of 0.25. Specifically, at a density of 0.25, the MAE is 0.359 and the RMSE is 0.1388. Similarly, for Throughput, both MAE and RMSE decrease as density increases, with the lowest values again observed at a density of 0.25. At this density, the MAE is 12.764, and the RMSE is 37.874. These results suggest that increasing density leads to improved performance of the Hybrid CNN-LSTM model in predicting both RT and Throughput metrics for location-aware web service recommendation tasks.

Table 5 presents a comprehensive comparison of experimental results for Response Time in Location-Aware Web Service Recommendation across various models and densities. The performance metrics, like MAE and RMSE, are depicted for densities ranging from 0.5 to 0.25. Among the models evaluated, Hybrid CNN-LSTM demonstrates competitive performance with decreasing MAE and RMSE values as density increases. Notably, at a density of 0.25, the Hybrid CNN-LSTM model achieves an MAE of 0.359 and an RMSE of 0.1388. For RLSD, at the same density, the MAE is 0.5214, and the RMSE is 0.1583. Comparison with other models reveals varying levels of effectiveness, with UMEAN, IMEAN, UPCC, and IPCC demonstrating relatively higher errors across different densities. Models like LDCF and NCF exhibit lower errors compared to others, while RLSD displays consistent performance across densities. Overall, the results underscore the effectiveness of the Hybrid CNN-LSTM model in accurately predicting Response Time, particularly at higher densities, showcasing its potential for enhancing location-aware web service recommendation systems.

Figures  4 and 5 show the results of an MAE and RMSE comparison of a proposed hybrid CNN-LSTM model with those of current models in terms of reaction time and throughput at varying densities (0.05 to 0.25). A more precise model could be possible with less loss (except if the model was overfitting to the data in the training set). During both training and testing, the loss value may be calculated to evaluate the model’s efficacy on the two datasets. Similar to accuracy, the loss does not have a proportional representation. It’s the sum of all the blunders in a sample’s training and testing data. In terms of reaction time and throughput, the suggested hybrid CNN-LSTM model was demonstrably superior to modern methods.

Loss values comparison of response time

Loss values comparison of throughput

Figures  4 and 5 shows the results of comparing the proposed hybrid CNN-LSTM model with current models in terms of reaction time and throughput at different densities (0.05 to 0.25) using the mean absolute error (MAE) and root mean squared error (RMSE). A more precise model could be possible with less loss (except if the model was overfitting to the data in the training set). During both training and testing, the loss value may be calculated to evaluate the model’s efficacy on the two datasets. Similar to accuracy, the loss does not have a proportional representation. It’s the sum of all the blunders in a sample’s training and testing data. In terms of reaction time and throughput, the suggested hybrid CNN-LSTM model was demonstrably superior to state-of-the-art methods.

6 Conclusion

This research offers a unique deep neural network-based Location-aware services recommendation model, in particular the Hybrid CNN-LSTM model, which has been suggested as an approach for location-aware web service recommendation, exhibits outstanding accuracy in the WS-Dream dataset at different densities. The assessment, illustrated through the utilization of tables and figures, demonstrates that the model’s precision in forecasting reaction time and throughput enhances as the density level decreases. Notably, the minimum values of MAE and RMSE are detected at density 0.25. As illustrated in Tables 3 and 4 , the reduced MAE and RMSE values for reaction time and throughput indicate that a model consistently outperforms modern approaches. The model’s precision is further underscored by loss value comparisons in Figs. 4 and 5 , which demonstrate reduced losses throughout the training and testing phases in comparison to existing models. The combined evidence highlights the effectiveness of the Hybrid CNN-LSTM model that has been proposed for improving the precision of location-aware web service recommendations, with a particular emphasis on its performance at lower density levels. Despite this, it does what we need it to do; nonetheless, more research and improvement in QoS prediction are required. We hope to modify the hyperparameters of the deep learning model used for location service recommendations shortly. This study presents an application survey and research scope to encourage researchers to solve service recommendation difficulties and to aid them in picking a more effective algorithm strategy for a suggestion based on the system’s requirements and input sets. This work will continue to progress in the area of recommendation systems and improve their ability to fulfil user requirements.

Data Availability Statement

The data used in this study will be made available upon reasonable request.

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Pandey, A., Mannepalli, P.K., Gupta, M. et al. A Deep Learning-Based Hybrid CNN-LSTM Model for Location-Aware Web Service Recommendation. Neural Process Lett 56 , 234 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11063-024-11687-w

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