Self-drafting, often called ghostwriting, a letter of recommendation (LOR) involves the applicant composing the text that a former supervisor, professor, or mentor will ultimately sign and submit. This practice is widely accepted in many academic and professional application processes, particularly for graduate school or specialized job applications. While the applicant creates the initial content, the document remains the official endorsement of the named recommender. The letter carries weight only after the recommender has fully reviewed, approved, and agreed to attest to all the claims made within the document.
Understanding the Common Practice of Self-Drafting
Recommenders frequently request applicants draft their own LORs for several practical reasons. A primary motivation is the significant time savings for the recommender, who may be managing dozens of requests alongside a demanding professional schedule. Providing a detailed draft allows the recommender to avoid the lengthy process of recalling specific past projects and synthesizing the applicant’s professional history.
The applicant also possesses the most current and detailed information regarding their achievements, which enhances the letter’s accuracy. This collaboration ensures the LOR addresses the specific requirements and competencies outlined by the target program or institution. This approach transforms the drafting process into an efficient partnership, allowing the recommender to focus their time on verification and personalization rather than initial composition.
Ethical and Integrity Considerations
The integrity of the recommendation process depends on the recommender’s genuine agreement with the self-drafted content. The recommender maintains full legal and ethical responsibility for the letter; they must read every sentence, make necessary edits, and ultimately approve the final version. If the recommender does not sincerely believe the claims or endorse the language used, submitting the letter constitutes a misrepresentation of the applicant’s qualifications.
Applicants must maintain absolute truthfulness, as any exaggeration or fabrication can lead to serious consequences if discovered. While the applicant drafts the content, the letter must reflect the recommender’s honest, professional assessment of the working relationship and performance. Institutions often protect the confidentiality of the LOR, underscoring that the letter is an official statement from the recommender and not merely a report from the applicant.
Essential Preparation Before Writing
Before writing, the applicant must gather specific, targeted materials to ensure the draft is relevant to the application. The most important document is the specific job description or program requirements, which dictates the exact competencies the letter needs to highlight. The applicant must also confirm the required format, length, and submission method, as these details vary widely and influence the letter’s structure.
An updated professional resume or curriculum vitae serves as the foundational document, providing a chronological framework of achievements and responsibilities. The applicant should compile a focused list of specific accomplishments that directly align with the target opportunity. This list should clearly articulate the context, the actions taken, and the measurable results achieved under the recommender’s supervision. This preparation ensures the draft focuses on verifiable, high-impact details the recommender can readily attest to.
Practical Guide to Self-Drafting the Letter
Adopt the Recommender’s Voice and Tone
The letter must sound like it originated from the recommender, requiring a formal, objective, and professional third-person tone. Avoid phrases such as “I believe” or “I think,” opting instead for authoritative statements like “The applicant demonstrated” or “In my experience with this individual.” Consider the recommender’s typical communication style, ensuring the language reflects their professional standing and relationship with the applicant. The goal is to produce a document the recommender can seamlessly adopt and confidently sign.
Focus on Specific Achievements and Metrics
Vague praise must be replaced with quantifiable data and concrete examples that validate claims of skill or character. If the letter asserts leadership ability, it should immediately follow with a specific metric, such as “She led a team of five engineers, resulting in a 15% reduction in project completion time.” Every statement about a skill needs to be immediately backed by a specific project or scenario from the applicant’s time with the recommender. This focus on verifiable results provides the necessary depth and credibility.
Structure the Letter Effectively
A standard letter of recommendation follows a predictable structure that applicants should replicate in their draft. The introductory paragraph must state the recommender’s name, title, and the capacity and duration of their relationship with the applicant. The subsequent two to three body paragraphs should each focus on a distinct theme or accomplishment, providing detailed, evidence-based examples. The concluding paragraph should offer a strong, unambiguous endorsement, reiterating confidence in the applicant’s potential for success in the target program or role.
Maintain Professional Distance
The drafted content should avoid language that is overly emotional, excessively familiar, or self-serving, which could reveal the ghostwritten nature of the document. Phrases like “I was so excited when I completed that project” or “This is my dream job” are inappropriate as they reflect the applicant’s perspective, not the recommender’s objective assessment. The tone should remain measured and professional, focusing strictly on the applicant’s documented performance and positive impact.
Facilitating Final Review and Submission
Once the draft is finalized, the transfer of the document to the recommender must be handled with professionalism and clarity. The applicant should provide the completed draft along with all necessary contextual information in a single, organized package. This package must include the application deadlines, clear instructions for accessing the submission portal, and a concise summary of the key points the letter aims to convey.
It is courteous to include a thank you note expressing gratitude for their time and support. The applicant should also offer to make any changes or edits requested by the recommender to ensure their comfort with the final text. Maintaining integrity requires that the recommender must be the individual who physically submits the letter directly to the institution, preserving the confidentiality and official nature of the endorsement.