Some of the most common FAQ’s and their solutions regarding writing a winning personal statement are listed below.

1. How should I start writing my personal statement?

It is difficult to simply put everything in words just top of your head; therefore it is best you write an outline of the statement and jot down points. Using this as a reference start wording your personal statement. The two main aspects that should be included in your personal statement include;

2. How long should the statement be?

Although there are no specific rules set, it is advisable to keep your personal statement short and crisp. Ideally it should be 47 lines or 4000 characters (with spaces) long.

3. Which is the most important part?

The start as well as the end should be interesting as well as attention grabbing. A dynamic first sentence will intrigue the reader and make him read the entire statement with interest. Similarly a good end will ensure that the reader remembers your personal statement.

4. How to write personal statement for two different courses?

There is no way that you can write a common personal statement for two different disciplines. In case courses are similar, you may write a common personal statement without mentioning the subject names. For example, a medical personal and residency personal statement are of the same discipline, but different course, thus don’t name the subject. But yet, it is best you write different personal statement for every application.

5. Should academic qualifications be added?

Your personal statement is your chance to project your abilities and in a narrative form explain the past influences, present readiness and future aspirations. You will already submit your test scores; therefore there is no need to talk about your academic qualifications and the scores you secured. Instead take this opportunity to be yourself.

6. What structure should be used?

Generally an essay style structure is used to write a personal , but you are free to write the way you want bearing in mind that 50% should talk about the course and why you are suited for it while other 50% should be dedicated for work experience and other activities.

7. Should the gap year be mentioned?

It is advisable that you talk about your gap year and the reason for it. You should mention how you are going to use the gap year constructively and how it will be beneficial for the course.

8. How should the statement end?

As stated earlier, the ending too should be interesting so as the reader remembers you. It is best to end your statement on a positive note. You can state how you will benefit from the course or state how the course is ideal for you and your future goals. Whatever you write, do not sound desperate; make it interesting instead.

The above FAQ’s will help you in formulating a winning personal that will be remembered by program directors.