Dear Dr. _________,
Thanks for agreeing to write me a letter of recommendation. Please let me know if you feel you cannot write me a strong letter of recommendation or if you do not have time, as residencies might not consider my application until your letter is available. I know you're busy and I appreciate that writing a good letter is time consuming, so please don't feel obligated. Here is some general formatting and content advice for writing my letter:
o Official letterhead is recommended.
o Address the letter, "Dear Residency Program Director," or something similar.
o Start by explaining who you are and how long, how well and under what circumstances you know
me.
o For the body, describe the strengths and personality traits you have observed (or that you're aware
of through my CV). If it helps to have a guide for topics to discuss in your letter, you might use the ACGME Residency Competencies, even if you can't comment on every area. The six competencies are: Patient Care, Interpersonal Skills and Communication, Practice-based Learning & Improvement, Systems-based Practice, Professionalism and Medical Knowledge.
o For the conclusion, summarize why I will be an asset to the program, and why you fully support my application. You may compare me to other students you have known (in the top 1%, 10%, 25% etc). At the end some authors put, "For further support of the application, feel free to contact me," and include information on how you can be reached.
I hope this information helps you in writing my letter. Please also find the attached letter request form from the residency application program ERAS.
Thank you again for generously taking the time to enthusiastically support my application to residency. I will be in touch throughout the interview and match season to let you know about my progress!
Sincerely,
_______
