Who should I ask for a letter of recommendation?

Applying to College Common and Coalition Application
1

I am very nervous to ask for a letter of recommendation. The reason being I am not a very talkative student (depending on the class), but I do my work in and out of class and work hard to get good grades… but this doesn’t always mean straight A’s. I have a few different options for teachers to ask but with all different circumstances. Which would be the best option for a LoR? Keep in mind I only need one letter of recommendation.

OPTION #1:

  • Math teacher of (will be) 2 years. (Taught me in AC Pre-Calc A junior year and I have him again senior year for AP Calc BC)
  • Known in my school to be a difficult teacher.
  • Received an A first semester and a B second semester junior year.
  • Classroom setting is all lecture/ not much emphasis on group work or participation (however I do participate when I can), so not sure how much he knows me personality-wise

OPTION #2:

  • AP Physics teacher (junior year)
  • Received B’s both semesters.
  • Not my favorite/best subject, but again, I focus and work hard in/out class.
  • More chance for participation and asking questions on my part
  • I talked to my teacher more on a personal level

OPTION #3:

  • History teacher of will be 3 years (first two years I was in regular-level classes, this semester I am in an honors class)
  • Mostly regular-level classes so does not highlight difficulty of my courses in this area.
    - Have received A’s all semesters with her.
  • Teacher knows me on a much more personal level than the other 2 teachers.
  • Knows I am a hard worker, although I still am not very talkative in her classes.

As you can see these are all very different options, so I would like to get opinions. Thanks!

2

I would for sure go with number three. It’s ok if it’s not a hard class, they more care about just hearing from an adult about you that knows you well in school. Option number two also seems like a good option. AP physics is a hard class so even Bs is good and it sounds like teacher knows you! Overall I would go with the teachers you are closest to as they will write the best recs.

3

Depending on which schools you are applying to, you might need two letters of recommendation. If that is the case, I would go with #2 and #3.