Recommendation letters are an important part of the college application process. They give admissions officers insight into who you are beyond grades and test scores. But asking for them can feel intimidating. Here are some tips to make the process smoother:

1. Choose the Right People
Pick teachers, counselors, or mentors who know you well—especially those who have seen your growth, work ethic, or character. A teacher who watched you persevere through a challenging subject can often write a more powerful letter than one from a class you aced with little effort.

2. Ask Early
Don’t wait until the last minute. Teachers are often writing many letters at once, so give them at least 4–6 weeks’ notice. Early requests show respect for their time.

3. Make It Personal
When you ask, do it in person if possible—or in a thoughtful email if that’s the best option. Be polite, and explain why you value their recommendation. For example: “I really enjoyed your class and learned a lot from your feedback. Would you be willing to write me a recommendation letter for college?”

4. Provide Helpful Information
Make their job easier by sharing your résumé, a list of your activities, or a “brag sheet” with highlights of what you’ve done in and out of school. Mention what colleges you’re applying to and your academic or career goals.

5. Say Thank You (and Mean It!)
Writing recommendation letters is time-consuming. Always thank your recommenders—both when you ask and again after they’ve submitted your letter. A handwritten note or small gesture of appreciation goes a long way.

Final Thought:
Recommendation letters are most effective when they come from people who truly know you. By asking early, being respectful, and providing helpful information, you’ll make it easy for your recommenders to highlight your strengths and help you shine in your applications.