Episode 26: Personal Statement Word Count Tips

IN THIS EPISODE

With the Spring 2021 Match deadline now less than 2 weeks away, I’m sharing some tips you can use as you’re whittling down your personal statement to keep it within the 1000 word limit. I have personally used all of these techniques as I have worked with students to make their personal statements stand out. This doesn’t mean that every personal statement needs every one of these tips, but it does mean that if you’re worried about word count, some of these are bound to be helpful.

Here are the tips that can help you cut down on some words covered in this Q&A:

1. Narrow down which experiences you share

2. Cut out details that aren’t absolutely necessary for the story

3. Look for sentences you can shorten and combine

4. Be sure to follow up general sentences with specific sentences

5. Check for short words or phrases you might not need after all

YOUR ACTION STEP

Check what your personal statement word count is right now If you are already at 1000 words or less, kudos! Double check that you’ve got full responses to all the questions and get ready to submit. If you’re over 1000, take note of how many words you need to remove. Then read it again with each of these categories in mind. Read it for details to see if you might have some extra you can take out. Then read it slowly, 2-3 sentences at a time, checking for options to shorten and combine. Finally, use that ctrl + F function to pick out words or phrases that you might be able to revise.

----------

SHOW NOTES

Episode 26 Show Notes: applicationinsider.co/podcast-source/ep26

Submit your questions to be answered on the Application Insider Podcast: https://applicationinsider.co/podcast

Find more dietetics tips and guidance at applicationinsider.co

Follow along on Instagram @applicationinsider

Schedule your FREE 20-minute Brainstorm Call with Nicole: https://applicationinsider.co/brainstorm-call

Watch the video of What Directors See in DICAS: https://youtu.be/Y_9W-amAws0

----------

Get the Personal Statement Self-Guided Course: https://applicationinsider.co/application-services-all/personal-statement-course

Download the Personal Statement Sample Pack: https://applicationinsider.co/application-services-all/personal-statement-sample-pack

Schedule a 40-Minute Ask Me Anything Call with Nicole: https://applicationinsider.co/application-services-all/ask-me-anything