I am a bit of a spazz

[tsuyogari]

This seems really... specific, but I am sort of inept at these things, so here is my question

Comments

[absinthexfaery]

Well, with me, I put together a folder which included a letter to them (thanking them for aggreeing to write a letter and detailing what needed to be done), the envelopes, any forms that needed to be filled out, a brief synopsis of the schools/programs I was applying for, and my resume.

And pretty much I just went to their office hours (for the ones I wasn't in a class with this semester) or talked to them after class. I was really forward, in a nice way of course, and they asked me a few questions and what not, as well as what date I needed these by, and that was it.

I hope that helps!

[tisiphone]

I just stuck my head into office hours and asked them straight up if they'd have the time and felt comfortable doing it. It's part of their job, it's not like you're asking for a kidney or something!

[esmeraldus_neo]

Both of the comments you have already are good.

It's nice to ask in person, but it isn't vital. A polite, warm email is good.

[fullofpink]

I've sent my advisers emails asking if they have 10-15 minutes to spare one day so I can come in and ask them some questions. Then I show up, pop the question, "I did not want to ask you this in email, since I definitely prefer to do it in person, but would you be willing to write a letter of recommendation for me for grad school?" I then tell them my list, they most likely ask my interests and suggest that I give them some items, I'll throw the items I anticipated that they needed, and then scram.

Worst thing they can do is say "no."

[wilde_isonmine]

Whenever I've needed a professor to write me a rec for a program, I've always e-mailed them and said something a long the lines of "I'm currently applying to [insert whatever here], and I was wondering if you'd be willing to write me a recommendation. Is there sometime during your office hours we could meet to discuss this?" It lets them know right away that you're specifically interested in asking for a recommendation, but it also allows you to talk about it further with them in person.

[ravenword]

This. It gives them some time to think about it and prepare for your conversation, and if they're like, "HECK NO!" then you don't have to take that punishment in person. Most will be very supportive and happy to help you out -- it's part of their job.