General Reco Letter
Guidelines for Writing Recommendations for:
Recommendation Writing Guidelines for Academic Graduate Schools Tell us how long and in what capacity you have known the applicant. Graduate programs are mainly looking for recommendations from employers and professors who are familiar with the applicant’s academic work. What matters most to them are the faculty members’ synopses regarding the candidate’s overall potential as a graduate student. The recommendation letter is more beneficial to the applicant and graduate school admissions committees in the event that it reflects a true understanding of the applicant and his or her performance.
The following questions should be covered in the letters:
intellectual characteristics:
What is your assessment of the applicant’s general intelligence? How adept is the candidate at absorbing and remembering knowledge? How would you rate the applicant’s analytical and logical skills? How well-suited is the candidate for handling intricate or abstract matters? Does the candidate exhibit any originality? Has the applicant’s employment history, social background, or academic standing had an impact on their academic record?
Expertise in the field of study:
How much and how broadly does the applicant know the field? Does he or she have research experience or knowledge of how to apply the methods used in the field of study? Does the applicant possess the necessary laboratory techniques, if applicable?
Capacity for Communication:
Does the candidate write well? Does the written work that was turned in show that the author understands English conventions? Is the written content persuasive, organized, and clear? Is the candidate able to express themselves clearly?
Industry and Self-Control:
How much does the applicant possess efficiency, motivation, and persistence? Can the candidate work on their own? Is there any reason to question the applicant’s diligence as a student or their commitment to graduate school?
Possibility of Postgraduate Education:
What do you think the applicant’s likely graduate school performance will be? Does he or she possess any specialized knowledge or training in the area? Does the candidate have a natural talent for the field they’ve chosen? How does this applicant compare to the other assessed candidates?
Efficacy:
Does the candidate have the maturity and self-adjustment skills necessary for graduate school? Would you accept the applicant to study for a graduate degree under your guidance? Does the applicant have the respect and trust of their peers and fellow students?