When you ask a professor for a letter of recomendation, are you suppose to give them a personal statement?

Answer 1

you can if they don't know you that well. i need a recommendation for law school so i gave my professor a copy of my resume even, that way she can get to know what i did and write better stuff about me. but for the most part you should get to really know professors like talk to them after and before class and meet them on breaks for questions once they get to know you they will write you the best recommendation like ever.

Answer 2

Yes, besides reminding them of your name and participation in class, it helps them focus on what they can say best.