Find out the purpose of the reference letter before you write to allow you to provide relevant information. What exactly is the college looking for in a reference letter? This is important if you are asked to write an effective letter that addresses what it is intended for. Find out what field the candidate wants to pursue in college. This helps you to determine whether you think the candidate is good enough to pursue studies in the field based on what you know.
Obtain a resume listing the candidate's grade point average, extracurricular activities, awards, leadership ability, special skills, professional experience and community service. The more information you gather on the applicant, the more rounded picture you can present in your letter. Remember that you might find information on the resume that is entirely new to you. Such information could help you understand certain aspects about the candidate's professional life that you did not have before.
Introduce yourself first in the letter. Include the number of years you have been acquainted professionally with the applicant and why you think this person is a suitable candidate for the college and the field of study. You must also include the candidate's qualifications. The reference letter requires specific information about the applicant, but you must also keep in mind that reference or recommendation letters are generally about attesting to the character and abilities of the subject.
Write the reference letter when you have gathered enough information about the candidate. Personalize the letter by addressing it to a specific person, rather than writing "To Whom It May Concern." Where the name is unknown, address the letter to the Selection or Admissions Committee. Proofread the letter to ensure the grammar is correct so that your letter sounds professional. Spell-check your letter before you print it.
Find out from the candidate whether you should post the letter separately in an official envelope or whether your letter should be included in the application. Put the letter in an envelope and seal it before giving it to the candidate. Post it separately if that is what you are required to do.