SOP Writing Tips:

1. COLLATE THE IDEAS

Details about oneself should be included in a SOP. This does not imply, however, that you should include all the trivial information about yourself. Keep it brief and make sure you’ve emphasized all the significant events in your life so far. Achievements in extracurricular activities, in the opinion of the majority, should not be acknowledged. Contrarily, if you’re applying to a school that prides itself on its diversity, you should emphasise these accomplishments because they show the admissions committee that you’re not afraid to take risks and try new things. Briefly describe your education, the reason(s) you chose your high school or graduation stream(s), depending on the application you are making, and your future goals.

Consequently, describe how finishing high school or graduating from it has helped you decide what field you want to enter or whether you want to stay in the same one. The admissions committee does not want to see a casual student enrolling in the course, therefore emphasise your long-term career ambitions in the field. Don’t forget to demonstrate in the SOP that you did your research and that this interest is not a lucky break. Additionally, mention that you looked into the university. Make sure to include your short-term objectives while saying that. These should primarily focus on what you intend to do while attending college, the skills you hope to acquire, and how those will contribute to your long-term objectives. The SOP shouldn’t convey any contradictory information. You cannot enrol in something as arbitrary as English Literature while mentioning that you want to pursue finance in the long run. It conveys the incorrect message. The message should be evident even if you just indicate that you want to pursue them as a pastime.

2. USE SIMPLE LANGUAGE

The general consensus is that when you write to prominent universities, you must utilise flowery language, high-frequency vocabulary, and esoteric idioms. This is the furthest thing from the truth. The sharing of ideas is the most crucial point to keep in mind when writing a SOP. When reading a SOP, the reader is looking for idea clarity and appropriate vocabulary, not for high-frequency words and idioms that may have been replaced. Avoid the error of sacrificing quality for vocabulary. This does not, however, imply that you should speak informally. Maintain SOP format and employ suitable language. Please feel free to consult the dictionary if you are unsure.

3. REVISE AND EDIT THE SOP

Never forget that your SOP gives the admissions committee a face to place with your résumé. There will be an infinite number of resumes and scores. The SOP is the only aspect of the application process that you have complete control over. You need to write a strong SOP that the admissions committee can easily understand and analyse without needing to spend a lot of time on it if you want your application, résumé, and score to count. Take your time reading through your SOP and revising your strengths, limitations, contributions to the course, and takeaways from the course.

4. ENSURE THERE IS CONSTANCY OF FLOW

One of the crucial components of writing a SOP is this. One should concentrate on the writing’s natural flow. There will undoubtedly be a lot of things one wants to say. It should be kept in mind, nevertheless, that the writing shouldn’t feel fragmented. Reread the SOP to make sure the flow is clear and consistent.

Make the lasting impression matter even though the SOP is not the deciding factor.

Statement of Purpose Format:

The structure is the same whether you’re writing a statement of aim for a PhD, master’s degree, or graduate programme. There is typically no word restriction for SOPs. An average SOP is two pages long. If the institute you are applying to hadn’t asked expressly, it would be between 800 and 1000 words. Before you start, look at some statement of purpose samples and examples that are accessible. If you’re still unsure of how to begin a statement of purpose, the advice provided below will assist you.

Goals and Introduction to the Statement of Purpose:

Although there isn’t a set format for a statement of purpose, there should be a flow to it. Introduce yourself first. Your educational background, your passions, and what you hope to achieve in life. Your education, the specialisation stream you have chosen, and how those things relate to the college or university are all considered to be part of your academic background. Your goals, both short- and long-term, make it clear to the reader what you expect from the school and programme you have chosen.

Academics: 

This section of the SOP expands on the general information about your academic history that was provided in the first section. Your education, extracurricular activities, and, if you’re a graduate, information about the college you attended. Any professional experience you have in the area you want to mention, as well as the development of your academic career.

Reason for Applying:
If you are writing a statement of purpose for a university, this is the most crucial section. Explain to the university how and why you found their university and why you want to be admitted to their programme. Without going beyond, demonstrate how committed and serious you are about it. Do a detailed analysis of the programmes and amenities the institute offers, and then demonstrate how using them would advance your career.

Conclusion to the Statement of Purpose:

Write down how you’ll accomplish the goals you’ve set for yourself in this section, which serves as the SOP’s conclusion. What will you contribute to the organisation if you are admitted, and how carefully have you prepared everything, especially with regard to the subject and the university you are applying to?