Start at the top of the document in your word processing program. Type the name of the recipient of the reference letter.
Press Enter to get to the next line. Type the recipient's address with the street number and name on one line and the city, state and zip code on the next.
Skip one line by pressing Enter twice. Type the date that you are typing the letter.
Press Enter twice to skip one line again. Then, type the greeting for the reference letter. Whenever possible, address the person directly, such as "Dear Ms. Sampson."
Skip one line between each paragraph of the reference letter by pressing Enter twice.
Introduce who you are and specify your relationship to the person for whom you are writing this letter of reference in the first paragraph. Include your profession and education, as well as your years of experience.
Type a paragraph to discuss the qualifications of the person for whom you are writing the reference. Describe their assets and experiences and double check any facts of which you are uncertain.
Include a paragraph about how good of a worker or student you believe the person is. This is your opinion, but in a reference letter, always try to emphasize positive traits. When you can, include an anecdote to show that the person is a hard worker, such as his exceptional job on a difficult assignment or project.
Say one last positive thing about the person in the final paragraph, such as a general statement about work ethic or vast experiences. Then, include your contact information and invite the recipient to contact you, if necessary.
Press Enter twice and type "Yours sincerely" or a similar closing.
Press Enter four times and type your full name.
Print out the reference letter on your professional letterhead when possible. Sign your name in blue or black ink below the closing.