How to write the best statement of purpose

How to Write the Best Statement of Purpose

An SOP is one of the most important documents of application.

By 05th Nov, 2015 | 01:16 pm

If you are deciding to study abroad, then you will have to write a Statement of Purpose (SOP), a letter which will distinguish you from other students. Regardless of your grade, results or marks, most universities will consider you based on your SOP; they will see whether you have the potential to succeed in school. An SOP is one of the most important documents of application, so make sure you take it very seriously. These tips will help you on how to write a good SOP.

Get Acquainted

Every school has its own selection criteria. So know what your college is looking for and then start working on it. However, some important pieces of information usually looked for in every SOP are

1. What you want to study at the school?

2. Why you want to study this course?

3. How much and what kind of experience you have in the field?

4. What is your plan once you have the degree?

Students are more likely distinguished based on their knowledge and interest in the field. With this thing in mind, make sure you remember to mention your interest and enthusiasm for the field. Also, mention the equivalent amount of educational background which will support your interest. Be more subjective and direct in your approach of writing because any kind of vagueness in the letter may get you rejected.

Draft your SOP

The best writing always comes from a lengthy process of drafting several rough copies. Start with noting down ideas and details you would like to mention in your SOP. Don’t worry if there is no flair in your writing because that will develop while working on what you want to say. The second and third drafts are the time to polish and proofread the copy.

Make your SOP Unique

When you are trying to represent yourself through your SOP, make sure your first paragraph is better than any other part of the document. Your first paragraph will keep your reader interested until the end. To distinguish your essay from the other applicants, add some of the best experiences of your life to it. Remember that whatever you choose to write will tell a lot about you to the admission committee.

Review

After you are done writing your final SOP, it is time to get it proofread by someone. Ask someone who knows what you are going through and what you are aiming for. It is good to have a second opinion about your document before you send it because any mistake encountered by the selector will certainly leave a bad impression about you. In addition, if you are not certain about your document, then any positive comment by your reviewer will make you confident.

A last piece of advice: If you are planning to apply to numerous schools, then don’t use the same SOP for all the schools. Use the same information, but make sure you change the presentation to fit each school’s criteria.

Also Read: 6 Public Speaking Tips To Help You Shine

Tejal Mistry