what is the difference between letters of recommendation and letters of reference?
<answer> A letter of recommendation is usually written by someone who has a professional relationship with you. A letter of reference is written by someone with a close, personal relationship to you. <context> A letter of reference and a letter of recommendation may sound like the same thing, but there are subtle differences between the two that distinguish them from one another. A letter of recommendation is usually written by someone who has a professional relationship with you, such as a supervisor or professor at school. These people can attest to your work ethic and job performance. A letter of reference is written by someone with a close, personal relationship to you.