Pick the right person.

Asking the right instructor, mentor, boss, or coach who knows you well and can speak to your character on a personal level, is the key to getting the best letter possible. Just because you got a good grade in their class doesn't necessarily make them the right person. Choose the instructor who you go to for extra tutoring, the coach who stays after practice with you to help with your free throws, or the mentor who's seen your growth over the years.

Start by making a list of three to four people in order of priority and then ask them one at a time. Wait for their response before you ask the next person. Let's avoid awkward moments where you'll have to tell someone "never mind." If you sense hesitation, go with someone else. That hesitation may not have anything to do with you, but they just might not feel qualified to write a letter for you or they may simply be too busy at that moment.

Plan time to ask them in person first.

If you're able to, try to ask them in person first and then follow up with a formal, written email. Explain why you chose to ask them in particular and what you're asking for. Of course, if you won't see them for a while and want to make sure you give them enough time, asking via email is perfectly fine too.

Don't wait until the last minute.

Chances are your recommender has other projects they're working on and might even have other letters to write. Try to give them at least two weeks, so they can write the recommendation letter to end all recommendation letters. You want the Thanksgiving mac and cheese your grandma spent all day on, not the boxed stove top!

Ask for a favor and tell them what it's for.

Emphasis on the word "ask" – you don't want to come off as demanding, even if you've already asked them in person. You want to give them the option to say no. Include details about what type of scholarships you're going after (e.g., merit, low-income, accounting, etc.) so if they choose to write your letter, they can tailor it to relevant skills and qualities.

Explain why you chose to ask this particular person.

This doesn't have to be more than two sentences. You also don't have to be overly flattering, but just enough to make them feel warm and fuzzy.

Here's an example: You've always gone above and beyond to support me in AP Comp Sci, and I think the support you have provided me as a teacher and mentor has allowed us to build a strong personal and professional relationship that can speak to my capacity to excel in any academic environment.

Attach a list of key points, resume, or a pre-written letter.

If you want to ensure they write what you're looking for, consider this option. It will help guide them to write something tailored to what would be most beneficial regarding the opportunity you're applying for. Additionally, it will provide them with information about other accomplishments you've achieved that they might've been unaware of. If a resume is your document of choice, we've got a template for you!

Here are some points to include:

• If a teacher:
• The courses you took with them and the grade you received
• One of your top attributes with examples of how you've demonstrated them in class
• Your GPA and top academic accomplishments
• Extracurricular activities or volunteer work you've done
• Work experience
• A short blurb about your goals for attending college and your future

Give them a deadline and follow up.

In your request, give them a deadline to submit their letter back to you or directly to the selection committee, if applicable. Ideally, this should be a week before your final submission date, especially if you are responsible for submitting the letter with the other requirements. Consider following up with a polite reminder a week before your letter is due. Express your appreciation again and offer to send any additional information they may need.

You should express gratitude throughout the process, but after they send your recommendation letter back, be sure to send them a proper thank you note.