Recommendation Request and Academic Misconduct What do I tell the student in response to a request for graduate school recommendation from an otherwise-qualified student who cheated by copying homework in one of my classes?  I am unwilling to write a strong recommendation for this student, based solely on the episode of misconduct.  If it hadn't happened, I'd recommend him strongly.

Edit: I was searching for something less blunt than "no" and something a bit less accusative than "no because you cheated."  With the help given below, I've decided on the following:


  While every recommendation letter I write is tailored to the particular student, all include comments on each of those things I believe are relevant to admissions committees.  One of those is academic integrity.  In your case, a comment from me on academic integrity would likely be fatal to your application.  For that reason, I must decline to write such a recommendation.  I am confident that you can find professors who can write strong recommendations, and I wish you the best in the future.  


Edit: The question identified as a possible duplicate whether whether the professor is obliged to write a recommendation for the student who cheated.  My question is about the best way to decline.
If you are willing to strongly recommend the student for graduate study, despite his past cheating offense, then tell the student you are willing  to write the letter, and then write the letter.

Otherwise, tell the student you are unwilling to write the letter, and then don't.



Your edit clarifies that you are unwilling to write a strong recommendation letter, because of the student's past academic misconduct.  I suggest telling the student, "I am unwilling to write you a strong recommendation letter, because of your past academic misconduct."