How to Write A Strong LoR for Medical Residency

Curious about what goes into a strong LoR for medical residency? An effective letter of recommendation communicates details about all or most of the following performance areas:

Theoretical knowledge base
Clinical acumen
Communication skills
Teamwork/Collaboration
Professional and personal attributes

Wherever possible, strengths in these areas are supported with concrete examples.

Now, here’s a detailed breakdown of an LoR!

Basic Structure

1 – 1.5 pages in length (400-500 words)

Choose a regular/standard font, use size 11 – 12

Include professional letterhead

Date

Content

Handwritten signature at bottom

Author contact information

Dear Program Director, To Whom it May Concern, Dear Residency Review Committee, etc…

Introduction

Starts with a strong statement of recommendation for a specific specialty.
Introduces the letter writer by way of stating their title/position and nature of their relationship with the applicant, including the length of the experience and how long they have known the applicant.
Offers a detailed summary sentence that includes 2-3 key reasons for the recommendation.

Body Paragraphs

Discusses key characteristics and core competencies using concrete examples that are relevant to the field being applied to. Also offers general commentary about broadly applicable skills like communication, professionalism, and collaboration.

Clinical Skills and Knowledge
- Describes the applicant’s clinical abilities and medical knowledge.
- Provides specific examples of clinical work, patient care, and diagnostic skills.
Work Ethic and Professionalism
- Comments on the applicant’s work ethic, reliability, and professionalism.
- Includes any notable experiences where they demonstrated these qualities.
Interpersonal Skills and Teamwork
- Discusses the applicant’s ability to work with others, including patients, staff, and colleagues.
- Highlights instances where they showed leadership or excellent teamwork.
Personal Attributes
- Mentions any personal qualities that make the applicant well-suited for residency and their specialty of choice.
- Provides examples of their dedication, compassion, and commitment to the field/specialty.

Conclusion

Emphasizes strong overall recommendation again and urges the reader to strongly consider the applicant for an interview/position.
Summarizes–without repeating–focusing on the applicant’s qualities as a person/physician and why they are perfect for the specialty.

Closing (optional)

Thanks the committee for their time and consideration.
Offers to provide additional information if needed.

Sincerely,

Keep in mind that an LoR for medical residency can vary broadly depending on the nature of the experience, the specialty being applied to, and the writer’s background.