Teachers, counselors or other mentors write letters of recommendation to vouch for a student's abilities. These letters accompany applications needed for graduate and undergraduate programs that students are trying to become accepted into. Only write a letter of recommendation if you feel strongly about the student who asked you. Your expertise and status builds credibility for the student it is written about.
Address a letter of recommendation to the admissions department of the college. In order to do this, ask the student for information regarding the name of the college, the program he is applying for and the address of the college. Many writers of these letters also ask the student for a copy of his personal statement. This statement is written by the student and states the student's aspirations and goals in life. The writer may also ask for an outline from the college regarding specific questions to answer on the letter of recommendation.
Begin a letter of recommendation by building your credibility with the reader. This is accomplished by listing your credentials, achievements and qualifications. You also accomplish this by describing your relationship with the student and the length of time you have known him.
The next part of a letter of recommendation is used to describe your thoughts of the student. If the student provides an outline, answer all questions stated on it. If there is not an outline, use your own words to describe the student's character, work habits and any other details that are positive about the student. Include any known awards the student earned and any characteristics that set this student apart from others.
Use the last paragraph to end the letter by including your personal contact information. Thank the reader as well for taking the time to read the letter and include a statement that specifically tells the reader that you highly recommend the college accepts this student into the desired program.