Everyone knows that the real star of a good recommendation letter is detail. If you're specific about a person's positive qualities and accomplishments, you can paint a unique and vivid portrait of that person that will stick in the mind of an employer or judge.
However, there's also the question of tone and structure when you're writing a reference. Some key words and phrases can guide you to a professional description and portray the proper enthusiasm around the specifics. The following can be used to get you started or to help you shape your own narrative:
Openers
Praise
Acquaintance
Closers
Index of letter of recommendation templates