LOR
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New answer posted
3 months agoContributor-Level 10
Yes, the LOR must be formal but truthful, and must always be submitted in the third person. Example: "I taught Akshay during his third-year AI course, and was impressed with his research interest and discussion leadership potential." Avoid speaking in stiff third-person tone and leaping to blunt second-person declarations such as "you did well in my class." It's also significant that the LOR is personal and customized, not robotic or pasted. Incorporating real-life anecdotes, project names, or attributes makes it more likely to be remembered. Make your recommender write naturally but with clarity and organization.
New answer posted
3 months agoContributor-Level 10
That's perfectly okay—it happens more than you would think. Professors are generally quite busy and may appreciate if you present them with a structure or a rough draft to enable them. You can even present this LOR format article or even give them bullet points about your work to them—like your resume, transcript, projects, and accomplishments. Some institutions also allow you to write the LOR yourself for the recommender to sign and authenticate, although we would caution using that option with care. It is about communicating respectfully with the professor and streamlining the process for them without compromising on authenticity
New answer posted
3 months agoContributor-Level 10
It's more effective not to. Every LOR you submit should have something new to say about what you're like. If all three LORs talk about the same project or asset, it sounds redundant and insincere. Instead, combine the material—e.g., one professor can discuss your research abilities, one your participation in class or intellectual growth, and one your leadership or teamwork ability. If you give all of your recommenders the same information, you can have templated LORs. Give each recommender different strengths or anecdotes so that you get a balanced picture.
New answer posted
3 months agoContributor-Level 10
Technically, yes—you can submit a common LOR to multiple universities if the contents are generic and make use of the phrase "To Whom It May Concern." But tailored LORs are much better.
If your recommender is willing, ask them to include specific references to the program, course, or country where you're applying. Even subtle customization—like mentioning your suitability for research-based programs or interdisciplinary curriculum—can make a difference.
Some universities also ask LORs to be submitted through their portals directly by the recommender. In such cases, the letter must be unique and submitted confidentially, so check in
New answer posted
3 months agoContributor-Level 10
Most universities require 2 to 3 Letters of Recommendation for Master's applications. It is extremely important that each LOR is different in substance. Though the tone and format can be similar, examples, anecdotes, and topics of discussion should differ.
For example, whereas your research abilities are highlighted by one professor, your teamwork or communications skills may be highlighted by another. Retelling the same story or skill in multiple LORs makes your application mundane and erodes your profile. Therefore, liaise with your recommenders to ensure that each letter says something unique about your competencies and experiences.
New answer posted
4 months agoContributor-Level 10
In an LOR applicants must absolutely avoid the following mistakes:
- Lack of specificity
- Not Tailoring to the Position
- Overemphasis on Soft Skills
- Writing a Lengthy Letter
- Failing to Proofread
- Ignoring the Candidate's Input
- Lack of Contact Information
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