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Writing tips for your UCAS personal statement

Posted: October 24 2022

СʪÃÃÊÓƵ London

Writing your UCAS personal statement can be a daunting task. But don't worry - we've got some tips to help you out.

Carry a notebook

Before you start writing, take some time to think about the key things you’d want our admissions tutor to know about you. Start by brainstorming ideas. You might want to carry a notebook with you or set up a memo on your phone. Whenever you think of something useful for your personal statement, write it down quickly. Inspiration can come at the most unexpected time and place. You can also ask your friends, family and teachers if they have any suggestions. Once you have this, organise what you've written into categories and then move forward from there!

Aim for a structure ratio of 75:25

Although there’s no set structure on how to write your personal statement, you should aim for a 75:25 ratio. The introduction and conclusion should make up roughly 25 per cent of your statement, and then the remaining 75 per cent should focus on how you meet the desired qualities of your course.

Practice first

The first draft you produce is unlikely to be the final version. It’s okay to rewrite your personal statement again and again. If you're feeling a little unsure, try writing a draft and then come back to it after some time has passed.

Keep it simple

The key to writing a great personal statement is to keep it simple. You don't have time to get bogged down in flowery language or long, drawn-out sentences. The truth is, what matters most is getting your point across clearly and succinctly. It's important to avoid repetition of the same things. So, if you say that you're a hard worker in one paragraph, don't then say the same thing again in another paragraph.

Don’t judge a book by its cover

You've probably heard the phrase "don't judge a book by its cover." Well, we don't judge your personal statement by its opening line. That's not to say you shouldn't put any effort into crafting an attention-grabbing opener though! But just remember, that the rest of your statement is what's going to get you onto your course.

Use the end to emphasise the good things

Writing a closing line that you’re happy with can feel as tricky as writing the whole thing. Use the end of your personal statement to emphasise all the good things you’ve already covered.

Ask someone else

Now, you've written a brilliant personal statement and it's time for the big reveal. Ask your teachers to review it. They'll have seen many personal statements before, so get their advice on how to improve yours. You can also ask for feedback from your friends and family on what they think of it.

Read it through

Your personal statement must be free from spelling and grammar errors, so make sure to proofread everything thoroughly before submitting your application! If possible, ask someone else to do it for you as well.

Ready to start writing? Download our personal statement template to start your university application.