EXAMPLE

July 1999: Creating a Believable Letter of Reference

  1. Replace abstract generalities with specific details that show how.
  2. Replace linking verbs with active verbs.
  3. Replace oily adulation with outright admiration.

Writer’s Original Sentence

Editor’s Suggested Revision

He was outstanding among the students for his intellectual curiosity which enabled him to obtain a profound knowledge in the field. Among the class of 30 students, Mr. Smith displayed an outstanding intellectual curiosity which sought sound knowledge and worked to develop insight into fields related to antitrust issues such as consumer rights and deregulation of finance.
He has provided a keen sense of analysis in the discussion and presentation and has contributed to the class. Mr. Smith always completed extensive investigation independently before classes and assessed the issues from various angles. His keen analyses encouraged other students to more actively participate in discussions, and contributed to the class’s solid understanding of antitrust issues in this country.
His graduation thesis, "________ Case and Antitrust Law" was phenomenal for its powers of reasoning, profound truth and investigative ability based on research in the field which Mr. Smith led by forming a group of fellow students to conduct visits of the actual area and to interview not only the consumer groups represented, but also the legal profession who maintained a high-profile presence. In addition, I remember evaluating his graduation thesis, "________ Case and Antitrust Law" as well-organized, persuasively written, and thoroughly researched. The paper reflected his logical reasoning, insight, and extensive investigation based on field research he led with a group of classmates who visited the area to interview consumer groups and lawyers.

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