What is a weak letter of recommendation?

The letter lists duties expected of any student, but is vague and does not give specific, accurate details about skills or attitudes, communicating that the letter writer knew the student well. There is also no comment on the quality of the student’s work.

Should I write a bad letter of recommendation?

But basically, you should never write a bad recommendation. Instead you should tell the student that you won’t/can’t write a letter. Let it go at that if you can, but if pressed, tell the student why. If you are generous you can let the student try to convince you that you have an improper impression.

Can a recommendation letter be short?

Almost all letters of recommendation for graduate program applications are short — at my previous university, for example, there was a field that letter writers could fill in that essentially only held the equivalent of a single paragraph.

How do you politely not recommend someone?

“Say something like, ‘Listen, I’m not the right person,’ or ‘I’m not the right fit for this, but good luck,’” says Speyer, who has faced this conundrum several times. “Don’t give a laundry list of reasons why you can’t do it. Just get in and get out.

Can my LOR be 2 pages?

Your LOR need not be too brief or too long whatsoever! It simply means that the recommender did not have the time to write the message if short.

What do admissions officers look for in letters of recommendation?

Admissions officers want to learn about your personal qualities and strengths from your recommenders. These personal qualities could include integrity, caring for others, thoughtfulness, humor, and passion. Two traits they especially value are demonstrated leadership and strength of character.

How do you politely refuse to write a letter of recommendation?

How to decline to write a student recommendation letter

1. Respond to the student’s request in a timely manner.
2. Write a brief email in a professional tone.
3. Provide an honest reason for declining the opportunity.
4. Offer to help promote their candidacy through other methods.
5. Show gratitude for their request.