Finding a gift for a graduate can be a tough task. Tastes and trends are ever changing and it can be hard to keep up.

The most requested gift by both high school and college graduates is cash. They enjoy the flexibility to buy what they want, wherever they want.

College graduates also said they appreciate laptop computers, external hard drives, digital cameras or Flip Cameras and an upgraded cell phone.

Personalized gifts also rated highly. Filled photo albums can help the recent graduate reminisce on the great memories, but don't give an empty album or frame because it can appear impersonal.

High school graduates said they also appreciated a new laptop. Other highly ranked gifts include a new printer, to avoid the long walks to the college printer, a WiFi router for the dorm room, a TV and t-shirts or other college gear.

For those who are looking for more affordable gifts, consider buying the graduate a laundry basket with $10 in quarters and detergent. Also highly requested is a flash drive, college gear and a surge protector. You may also want to write a heartfelt letter to show the graduate how much you care.

The worst gift is the children's book "Oh The Places You'll Go" or other children's memorabilia. Gift cards are also a poor idea. Graduates said they'd rather have the cash instead of being restricted to shopping at one store. Money clips and tie clips also were ranked poorly.