Clair Blog · Admissions ·

Tips for Recommendation Letters

Don’t pick a teacher just because they write “good” recommendations.

The strongest recommendation letter usually comes from a teacher who knows how you think, how you contribute, and how you’ve grown, not simply a teacher who is known for writing flattering letters. When choosing a teacher, look for someone who:

  • Taught you in 11th grade, when possible

  • Teaches a core academic subject, particularly if a college has specific recommendation requirements

  • Knows you beyond your grade, including your participation, curiosity, work ethic, or intellectual growth

  • Can give specific examples of your strengths rather than relying on general praise

  • Has seen your growth over time and can explain how you developed as a student

For example, “Sarah is an excellent student who is hardworking and responsible” sounds positive but it could describe thousands of applicants. A stronger letter might explain how Sarah challenged herself to take on a difficult project, responded to feedback, contributed a unique perspective to class discussions, or persevered when she struggled with a concept.

That’s the difference between a nice letter and a meaningful one.

Before asking a teacher, ask yourself: “What can this teacher tell a college about me that won’t already appear elsewhere in my application?”

Your transcript shows your grades. Your activities list shows what you’ve done. Your essay shows what you want colleges to know about you. A strong recommendation letter can add something different -- a firsthand perspective on who you are as a student and person.

A letter filled with generic praise won’t add much to your application. The goal is a recommendation that makes an admissions officer think: “Now I understand something about this student that I couldn’t see from the rest of the application.”

Choose the teacher who can make that happen.

Side note: Check each college’s requirements for recommendations. Some schools specify the number of recommendations, the type of teacher, or even the academic subjects they prefer.