Is A Personal Statement A Letter?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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The basics are these. A

personal statement is more about promoting yourself

, aka why you are the right candidate for a given undergraduate degree. A motivation letter is more about your future study plans and how the Bachelor’s you are applying to is going to help you achieve your goals.

What is the format for a personal statement?

A general rule of thumb you might follow is to submit a

2-3 page statement, double-spaced, with 1-inch margins, in 12-pt. Times New Roman font

. While there are no set rules about length or format, this is typically considered appropriate and sufficient.

Is a personal statement the same as a cover letter?

A personal statement is designed to

show passion

for a career path and tell more of a personal story. It departs from the formality of a cover letter and so gives an employer a much better feel for your career goals and whether you are a fit for company culture.

What exactly is a personal statement?

Personal statement —

an essay you write to show a college admissions committee who you are and why you deserve to be admitted to their school

. It’s worth noting that, unlike “college essay,” this term is used for application essays for graduate school as well.

Can a statement be a letter?

Also referred to as information letters or letters of transmittal, simple statement letters often

convey information about a change in policy or

procedure. Such statements tend to be perfunctory, meaning they usually don’t merit discussion or debate.

How do you start off a personal statement?


Start with why you chose it

, then try and summarise this in one or two sentences. Be original and refer to personal experiences as a way to draw attention. Avoid overused opening sentences, quotes and clichés like ‘when I was young…’ They want to know about you now, not your childhood or Shakespeare!

What does a good personal statement look like?

Your personal statement should include

a brief overview of who you are

, your strengths and any work experience and/or education you’ve got. Be sure to include skills you’ve gained, such as time management, customer service, teamwork, computer skills etc.

How do you write a strong personal statement?

  1. Make a draft without a character counter. …
  2. Take your time. …
  3. Find the perfect words and expressions. …
  4. Concentrate on your strengths. …
  5. Find the perfect opening sentence. …
  6. Make it your own work, voice and ideas. …
  7. Be honest. …
  8. Get someone to proofread your statement.

What skills should I put in my personal statement?

Your personal statement should include a brief overview of who you are, your strengths and any work experience and/or education you’ve got. Be sure to include skills you’ve gained, such as

time management, customer service, teamwork, computer skills

etc.

How do you write a powerful personal statement?

  1. Make a draft without a character counter. …
  2. Take your time. …
  3. Find the perfect words and expressions. …
  4. Concentrate on your strengths. …
  5. Find the perfect opening sentence. …
  6. Make it your own work, voice and ideas. …
  7. Be honest. …
  8. Get someone to proofread your statement.

What is an example of a statement?

The definition of a statement is something that is said or written, or a document showing the account balance. An example of statement is

the thesis of a paper

. An example of statement is a credit card bill. A declaration or remark.

How do you start a statement letter?


Introduce yourself at the beginning of the letter

– the identification should include your full name, position, and organization you represent. Indicate the reason for drafting the statement. Devote one or two sentences to summarize the situation or issue at hand before you start talking about it in full detail.

How do you avoid I in a personal statement?

  1. NEGATIVITY. …
  2. NOT MENTIONING YOUR SKILLS & ACHEIVEMENTS. …
  3. EXAGGERATION & OUTRIGHT LIES. …
  4. POOR SPELLING AND GRAMMAR. …
  5. NOT GETTING FEEDBACK. …
  6. STATING THE OBVIOUS. …
  7. TALKING ABOUT YOUR CHILDHOOD. …
  8. THE WORD PASSION.

How long is a personal statement?

Unless otherwise specified on the school’s admission website, most personal statements are

between 2-3 pages in length

. Personal Statements are typically 1.5 or double spaced and adhere to regular one inch margin space. Use a font that is common and easy to read (Calibri, Times New Roman, etc.).

How do you write a good personal statement for a job?

  1. Do sell yourself and highlight what sets you apart from other candidates.
  2. Do make it relevant. …
  3. Do be succinct. …
  4. Do use a career summary format showing what you have to offer.
  5. Do make it engaging. …
  6. Do be specific. …
  7. Do show some passion, as long as it’s relevant.

How do you write a killer personal statement?

  1. Firstly- don’t wait to get started! …
  2. Make a plan BEFORE you start writing. …
  3. Know what’s expected. …
  4. Perfect the format. …
  5. Let your personality shine. …
  6. Show real interest in the subject. …
  7. Tell them why should they choose you. …
  8. Get someone to proofread your writing.
Juan Martinez
Author
Juan Martinez
Juan Martinez is a journalism professor and experienced writer. With a passion for communication and education, Juan has taught students from all over the world. He is an expert in language and writing, and has written for various blogs and magazines.