Letters of recommendation are "high stakes" and are important to candidates (letter-seekers), recommenders (letter-writers), and evaluators (letter-readers). For the candidate, a well-crafted, vibrant letter offering positive insight into his or her academic capabilities could be the factor that allows an extraordinary professional opportunity to become possible. On the other hand, a letter of scant praise, even when not intended to inflict harm, could become a real obstacle in attaining a hoped-for career goal. For a recom-mender, a thoughtful, detailed letter communicates (or not) the merit of the applicant but also is a direct reflection of the judgment of the recommender. For the third stakeholder in the process, the evaluator, learning how to interpret the nuances in recommendation letters may mean the difference between choosing truly outstanding individuals who will thrive in the new role, or a mismatch, disappointing to all.
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