Getting Started
What is the very first thing you should do before writing a personal statement or SOP
Brainstorm and organize ideas
Copying someone else’s essay or using AI without editing is considered this.
plagiarism
A personal statement is usually written when applying to this level of study.
undergraduate
A statement of purpose is usually required when applying to this.
graduate school (master’s or PhD)
This person can help you catch small mistakes before you submit.
a friend, tutor, or professor
A personal statement usually begins with one of these, to grab the reader’s attention.
a hook
A strong essay should focus on this person’s experiences.
yourself
Instead of just listing grades, your personal statement should show this
personality or character
In an SOP, you explain your interest in research and these — the people you want to work with.
professors or faculty members
True or False — admissions officers like very complicated vocabulary.
False
Instead of copying and pasting your resume, you should tell one of these.
a personal story
One thing you should always do before submitting your statement.
proofread or edit
This kind of story, like overcoming a challenge or helping someone, makes your essay memorable.
a personal experience
The tone of an SOP should be more like this, compared to a personal statement.
professional or formal
Your essay should be written in this person’s voice.
your own voice
Before writing, you should always read this carefully to see what the school wants.
the application instructions or prompt
This type of language (like “I have always wanted to be a doctor since I was 5”) is considered weak.
cliché
A good personal statement explains what excites you about this.
your subject or field of study
An SOP shows why you and this are a good match.
the program or school
Cutting out unnecessary sentences makes your essay stronger. This is called what?
editing or revising
Why is it more powerful to start with a moment of change in your life instead of a general statement about your goals?
shows growth
True or False — it’s a good idea to use a famous quote to start your essay.
False
If two students write about failing a class, what makes one essay impressive and the other weak?
showing resilience/improvement instead of excuses
Graduate programs want to know that you’ve done your homework. What are 3 details you should include in an SOP to show you’ve researched the program carefully?
mentioning specific professors, research labs, or unique program features
What’s the danger of trying to “sound impressive” instead of writing simply and clearly?
losing authenticity