personal statement writers block

How to Beat Writer’s Block and Build a Fantastic Personal Statement!

By Gurufi - Oct 27 , 07:42 AM Comments [0]

You've picked your dream school, taken your GRE, and gotten your letters of recommendation. You sit down to write, and the blinking cursor on the blank page taunts you. You're frozen. What to write? Who am I? What makes me special? How do I sum up my entire life, my future, and my intellectual and professional mission in 1000 words?!?!? ARGHHHHH!!!! Oh no, you have writer's block!

In most cases, people get writer's block because the skip an important phase of the writing process. Instead of beginngin by just letting ideas flow in a non-self-critical way, they obsess over every word, and start to tear down their own ideas before they even get fully formed.

The trick to beating writer's block is to make the first stage of writing private, low stakes, and focused on just generating content. But it has to be great content, right? Nope. Making it great comes later. What you need to work out first are your ideas in all of their sloppy, half-baked, meandering, wonderful messiness.

You see, one of the unusual things about people is that we have beliefs and ideas that we don't even know we have. Our motivations are unclear, even to ourselves. That's where this writing exercise comes in. The exercise I explain in this video will only take 15-20 minutes from start to finish, but it could provide you the tools you need to make a fantastic personal statement. I've taught this technique in seminars and in my classrooms for over a decade, and every time, two things are true. (1) Many (sometimes most) students think, "why are we doing this? This is touchy-feely hippy garbage!" And then they do it. Then, (2) they say, "woah, that was SO helpful!"

Watch the video and do the exercise. The most you will lose is 25 minutes that doesn't help you. But the upside is that, like so many of my former clients and students, this simple technique gives you the bricks to build something awesome!

For more help with your personal statement, check us out at Gurufi.com . Our personal statement editors and consultants have decades of experience helping clients get into top Masters and Ph.D. programs in STEM, humanities, fine arts, and social sciences. Our specialty is helping you craft compelling personal statements that move the needle in your admissions process! For questions, shoot us an email at [email protected] . Check us out on Facebook , Twitter , and LinkedIn .

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Law School Personal Statement Writer’s Block

Every fall, we find that writer’s block ranks in the top two for most stressful issues applicants face. (The  LSAT  is the other one.) Since 1996, we’ve helped several thousands of law school applicants overcome this psychological road block and produce high-quality  personal statements  that have helped them gain admission to their reach law schools. We hope this article and video help an even larger number of law school applicants with this condition.

Without further ado, let’s summarize our top five tips to help you promptly break ground on that admissions winning law school personal statement we know you have hidden inside you.

1. Set an artificially short deadline.

Set this artificial deadline for no more than a week from now. The abilities of law school hopefuls to write original copy when their backs are to the walls are legendary. Think positive and you too will join the ranks of these legends by producing a solid draft in such a short time after so much procrastination!

2. Be heard. (But only by you.)

Don’t want to inconvenience someone to be your sounding board? Use that mirror. (It can serve more than one purpose after all.) Say it out loud. It can be a bit rough but if you can say it out loud, you should then be able to transfer those thoughts to paper.

3. Get away.

You now full well what your distractions are and how to stay away from them. If your weakness is texting, leave the smart phone behind. If the television is the normal source of your undoing, go outside (weather permitting) or to the library.

4. It doesn’t matter where you start.

If you have writer’s block, then you are having trouble getting anything started. To break the inertia, just jump in with the conclusion, topic sentence, wherever and start. There will be time later to figure out how to best piece it all together.

5. Treat grammar as another distraction to be avoided.

The first draft is not the place to worry about grammar. Or wordsmithing. The first draft is instead when you should be brainstorming and capturing your ideas. On a serious note, if you are trying to get everything done in one revision, you should revisit your desire to attend law school. If you only have time for one revision because of an impending deadline and the school is any kind of reach, well then you should probably resign yourself to reapply earlier the next year.

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New Self-Paced Course: "Writing Funny" with Tonight Show writer Simon Taylor! Learn more »

Writer’s block—having difficulty producing new writing—affects almost every writer at some point, and it can be debilitating for our creativity. If you’ve explored creative writing, I probably don’t have to tell you how painful and challenging writer’s block can be.

In this article, we’ll look at writer’s block more deeply, asking “What is writer’s block?”—beyond its most obvious symptom (trouble writing) and into its underlying nature and causes. We’ll share standard advice on how to overcome writer’s block, and then offer additional suggestions based on a deeper look at the issue.

Writer’s Block: Contents

What Causes Writer’s Block

What causes writer’s block: a personal example, what is writer’s block: a deeper look, overcoming writer’s block: the standard advice, overcoming writer’s block: when the standard advice isn’t working, overcoming writer’s block: directly accessing creativity, how to overcome writer’s block: working with root causes, working with writer’s block: embodiment and connection, working with writer’s block: meeting our parts, courses to help you overcome writer’s block, “why do i have writer’s block”: what causes writer’s block.

In general, writer’s block is not caused by simple problems with easy solutions, such as “being too busy” or “not having anything interesting to write about.”

In general, writer’s block is not caused by simple problems with easy solutions.

These superficial issues can seem to be causing our writer’s block, if they’re the only ready explanation at hand. But if those were the real and only causes, we could easily get rid of writer’s block with simple advice like, “Wake up earlier,” and “What interests you? Write about that.” That advice doesn’t work, because these aren’t the real causes of writer’s block.

In the 1970s, two researchers at Yale studied writer’s block , and concluded that it had four main causes:

• Feeling constrained and creatively blocked by the “rules” of writing.
• Seeking external validation and attention through one’s writing, and becoming disappointed and angry if not getting it.
• Feeling not good enough and paralyzed by self-criticism.
• Feeling afraid of having one’s writing compared with the work of others.

These sets of issues have been labeled “apathy,” “anger,” “anxiety,” and “social hostility,” but to me that has that overconfident 1970s Ron Burgundy feel to it, rather than being a useful description of these people’s inner worlds.

Whether or not these are the official four causes of writer’s block, you can see what they have in common: they reflect places where our psychology makes writing fearful or unpleasant.

Fundamentally, writer’s block occurs when an element of our psychology makes writing fearful or unpleasant.

I can share why  I sometimes have writer’s block, based on what I learned in a yoga-and-writing session earlier this year with our instructor Nadia Colburn :

That agonized handwriting (getting to emote in your handwriting is a big benefit of freehand writing) reads “DESPAIR. I HAVE NOTHING TO SAY.”

Later in the session:

This reads, “I WANT TO GIVE WHAT IS PERFECT LIKE HE DID”

So, of the four options above, my issues with writer’s block are largely reasons 3 (paralyzed by self-criticism) and 4 (afraid of having my writing compared with the work of others).

In my case, “I have nothing to say” means the following: my personal interest is in spiritual writing, and I don’t feel far along enough in my own spiritual journey to be able to contribute anything the world really needs. So “Feeling not good enough and paralyzed by self-criticism” does fit the bill. “Despair” is an additional bit of what that feels like in my case.

“Like he did” refers to a personal favorite spiritual writer, whose writings feel to me like a very high bar that I don’t know if I’ll ever approach—in which case, why am I adding yet more inferior words into this world? So, “Feeling afraid of having one’s writing compared with the work of others” does fit, although in this case it would be me doing the comparing.

Let’s look at writer’s block more deeply. As we can see in my example, writer’s block is not a simple issue of needing a jolt of excitement or discipline. Instead, as The New Yorker reports in an article on writer’s block : “Many symptoms of writer’s block are the kinds of problems psychiatrists think about.”

I would say this more straightforwardly: writer’s block is a topic within mental health.

Writer’s block is a topic within mental health.

Please don’t take that the wrong way. By mental health, I mean “our level of inner well-being,” and, for all of us, it varies , for reasons . For example, although I’m great one-on-one, I am personally terrified of crowds of new people. So, depending on the situation (it varies ), I struggle with people, and those struggles are for reasons which I only partly understand. This is the kind of thing I’m referring to, and it’s the shared experience of everyone who’s ever lived.

There is still sometimes stigma around acknowledging that our minds actually do struggle. So I want to emphasize that I don’t feel that my own or anyone’s experiences of writer’s block are in any way an occasion for self-blame, shame, or stigma.

Rather, I’m simply saying that, just as our psychology can help us or hinder us in our other life pursuits—meeting friends in a new place, recovering from a career setback, and so on—it can help us or hinder us in our writing. In other words, writer’s block is about how we feel about ourselves and our world.

Writer’s block is about how we feel about ourselves and our world.

In my own case, I have no trouble writing , as far as that goes. What has tended to block me is my sense of inferiority, unreadiness, as a writer of spirituality, which I never even fully noticed until the workshop with Nadia. It’s an emotional block.

As the Yale researchers found, most experiences of writer’s block follow this theme. Writer’s block is not about writing per se , but about our feelings around writing: feeling judged by others, feeling rejected, feeling inferior, feeling stupid, feeling hunted by self-criticism, feeling stifled and oppressed, feeling alone.

Writer’s block is not about writing per se , but about our feelings around writing: feeling judged, rejected, self-critical, and so on.

The role of writing itself is simply that it triggers those feelings in some people. We’re disciplining ourselves to find words that seem worthy to write down, and then sharing those words out for others to scrutinize (or ignore!). Many parts of that process can be very heavy emotionally. If the process activates painful feelings in us so strongly that we can’t proceed, we call that writer’s block.

If writing activates painful feelings in us so strongly that we can’t proceed, we call that writer’s block.

Based on this knowledge, let’s look at some advice for overcoming writer’s block. Simple behavioral fixes really can help with writer’s block in some cases, and not in others: it depends exactly what’s causing it for you. We’ll look at different approaches below.

How to Overcome Writer’s Block

The standard advice for writer’s block offers simple behavioral fixes.

The standard   advice for writer’s block focuses on simple behavioral fixes and optimizations, such as:

• Break your writing project into manageable chunks. For example, you can set a timer for a set number of minutes and “do nothing but write” during that time. Take refreshing breaks between sessions.
• Eliminate distractions. For example, you can disable your internet access as you write.
• Don’t get caught in perfectionism as you write a first draft; remind yourself that the draft doesn’t need to be perfect, or even good.
• Find a physical environment and time of day where you feel most inspired and creative, and make it a habit to write there and then.
• Establish a ritual around your writing. For example, you might have a particular song or drink when it’s time to write.
• Do something calming (meditate, stretch) before you start writing, to soothe any anxiety you feel.

If these types of straightforward advice solve your writer’s block, that’s great: whatever its cause may have been, you’ve found a way to work with your system to move past it.

If simple fixes don’t work for you, you’ll need to change your approach.

However, if the fixes above don’t work, you’ll need to change your approach. When these behavioral fixes do try to engage the deeper causes of writer’s block—the internal challenges we discussed above—the result is advice like this :

“Consciously stop any non-productive comments running through your head by replacing them with productive ones. Rather than labeling yourself a ‘bad writer,’ think about what parts of the writing process you excel at (idea generation, conclusions, sentence style , etc.) and plan to allot more time for the steps that take you longer.”

To my eye, this is not very curious about the writer’s inner world. It feels like ignoring calls from a collections agency one-by-one as they come in (call up one of your friends instead!), rather than figuring out what the agency wants and what to do about it.

If the standard advice for how to overcome writer’s block isn’t working for you—as it hasn’t for me—then read on.

The  New Yorker article acknowledges the deeper causes of writer’s block, but describes the Yale researchers finding a moderately successful fix for writer’s block that doesn’t address those causes. The fix has to do with producing dreamlike mental images:

“These writers would sit in a dim, quiet room and contemplate a series of ten prompts asking them to produce and then describe dream-like creations. They might, for example, ‘visualize’ a piece of music, or a specific setting in nature. Afterward, they would visualize something from their current projects, and then generate a ‘dreamlike experience’ based on that project. In multiple cases, the exercises led, over time, to the alleviation of writer’s block—even in the absence of therapy… Emotional blockages did exist. But he was wrong to assume that, in order to move past them creatively, writers needed to address their emotional lives. In fact, the process could go the other way.”

I think this is valuable advice, from the following standpoint: we don’t have to heal ourselves  first ; the writing itself can be healing.

We don’t have to heal ourselves first ; the writing itself can be healing.

But I find the broader implication—that, yes, you can just ignore the causes of your fear of writing by accessing your creativity directly—to still be rather ignorant.

The article expresses dismay that everyone’s mind is different: “Unhappy writers, it seemed, were unhappy in their own ways, and would require therapies tailored to address their specific emotional issues.”

The objection seems to be, “Who’s got time for that?”

“Therapy” here means “professional talk therapy”—you would need to pay for a person’s time, and there’s no guarantee it would work. Under those conditions, I suppose I agree with the objection. It still seems rather dismal.

If, after we’ve “tried everything,” our writer’s block continues to haunt and confuse us, it’s likely because we’ve been trying behavioral fixes for what is ultimately an inner, personal conflict in how we experience ourselves and our world.

If our writer’s block continues to haunt and confuse us, we’ve likely been trying behavioral fixes for a deeper inner conflict.

As an example, let’s return again to my own writer’s block. Is setting a kitchen timer and taking regular breaks really going to help me with the following dilemma: Why would I want to put more inferior words into the world?

Timed or untimed isn’t the issue, nor that I write without a set writing ritual, or with access to the internet. Again, I’ve been struggling with an emotional block, something so painful in how I feel about myself and the world that it shuts down my writing.

If we want to work with those directly, how do we do it? Read on.

Not coincidentally, I first even noticed my writer’s block directly—saw it for what it was, including its causes—in a workshop that combined the very energetic embodied practice of kundalini yoga with short episodes of freewriting.

I’ve written about the experience here , but overall I’d like to advance a few things that are extremely important to the positive result I had, both in Nadia’s description of her teaching and in my own experience:

Come Into the Body

To feel into the things we carry, we need to feel into our bodies. We as a culture are needing to come out of the rational-head-on-a-stick model we inherited, as useful as it can be.

So much of our emotional life is in the body. Our feelings are called “feelings” rather than “musings,” because we feel them, physically.

In particular, the body stores our trauma: the things that scare us for reasons we don’t understand (or, more precisely, don’t remember), which is a topic utterly relevant to writers’ block.

Our traumas, large and small, are deeply embodied. Just changing our thoughts or attitudes won’t address them, and this is why we can’t simply talk ourselves out of writer’s block.

That our traumas, large and small, are deeply embodied, and not addressable by trying just to change our thoughts or attitudes, is a finding so important that it is the title of the seminal book on trauma: The Body Keeps the Score . This is why we can’t simply talk ourselves out of writer’s block.

In Nadia’s workshop, we spent minutes just getting into full experience of our bodies, and the writing came from there. Nadia’s direct advice is as follows:

Here’s more detail on that same advice from a later workshop I attended with her: “When we’re writing we often disconnect from our body; see if you can stay connected to your body and your breath as you write, so you’re not just writing from your head, but from lower down.”

Feeling and Writing into Blocks

Nadia says, “Yoga gave me tools to unlock what my body was carrying.” This doesn’t have to be through yoga, but the idea is that writer’s block , or any other emotional-energetic block in the body, is not something to route around or ignore. Instead, it’s something to feel into, kindly.

Any energetic block in the body is not something to route around, but something to feel into, kindly.

This involves directly experiencing the energy block, in the body, as part of a gentle, embodied practice like Nadia led. Then, as you feel into the block, you can give it voice, through writing itself. The jagged handwriting I shared at the top of the article started as energy: as feelings in the body (tension in the upper stomach, constriction my throat), which then found words to express themselves. The reason the letters are so jagged is because I was allowing this energy to flow and shift, including through my hand as I wrote.

You can write into blocks to explore them, and this is an important method of letting the why of your writer’s block express itself, as happened in my case.

Blocks as an Energy Source

You’ll also find that the energy stored in emotional blocks—including writer’s block—can power your writing.

Again, writer’s block isn’t really a bland, “I can’t find cool things to write about”-type experience. Instead, it’s an “I feel like I’ll never be good enough”-type experience, or “I know I’m better than other people, and I don’t want to give them a chance to disagree by criticizing my writing”-type experience, or any of the other inner conflicts on or off the Yale researchers’ list.

All those cases have something in common: they’re very painful! There’s a lot of energy there.

When your writer’s block reveals its actual source and nature, you’ll likely have plenty to talk about.

When your writer’s block stops being a random weird thing you banish with an egg timer and a favorite cola, and reveals its actual source and nature, then it’s quite likely that you’ll have plenty to talk about. You may also have plenty of energy to do the talking, as with my jagged handwriting.

To explore any of these elements, you can look at Nadia’s teaching, or any other process that combines deep bodily awareness with writing into blocks.

I can’t do full justice to it here, but I’ve been reading a book called No Bad Parts , by Richard Schwartz, and applying its exercises in my own life. It’s changed both my perspective and my day-to-day life by an extreme amount—perhaps more than any other book I’ve ever read.

The book’s core thesis (and of the broader literature known as Internal Family Systems, IFS) is that our minds are not single but multiple: we have many “parts,” each in their own role. By the time we reach adulthood, many of these roles are stuck and confused.

Imagine a normally nice person who has “a mean streak” or “a bad side.” The idea is that that “streak” or “side” is real : it is one of many parts of that person, with its own goals, fears, and perspectives. It is not just an odd and inexplicable “habit” affecting a single, coherent individual.

How does this apply to writer’s block? Well, writer’s block is similarly “odd and inexplicable.” How could a person who loves and values creativity find their own creativity blocked? How come we keep telling ourselves to “just write it, it doesn’t matter what other people think”—and yet we never do? It just doesn’t make sense, if we’re the single, rational, straightforward unit we often assume we are.

Writer’s block happens when we can no longer silence parts of ourselves—that are bound up in shame, inferiority, craving the approval of others, fearing rejection, and so on—enough to keep writing.

After exploring the perspective in No Bad Parts (known as Internal Family Systems, IFS), it’s impossible not to see writer’s block in terms of parts of ourselves—parts that are deeply bound up in shame, inferiority, craving the approval of others, fearing rejection, and so on—feeling so much pain and conflict when we write that we cannot continue.

In general, we’ve never even noticed these parts for what they are (as I hadn’t with the energies I was voicing in Nadia’s course), let alone begun the healing process of reconnecting with them. When we can no longer silence these parts enough to keep writing, we call it “writer’s block.”

Parts Give More Detail

Working with writer’s block using this perspective is very similar to what I did in Nadia’s workshop. The only difference is looking at the conflict in my body not just as an energy, but as a part —a miniature personality. The emotional block I felt is not “my” overall sense of inferiority (which I don’t have!), but is within a system of feelings and beliefs held by a part of me.

This part feels inferior, and is in conflict with other parts of me—say, the parts that would love to write a book, or that feel that what I might have to say may not be perfect, but it is surely worth saying.

Crucially, this part, and all parts, are a friend, not an enemy. The book title says it beautifully: No Bad Parts . When a part is in pain, I don’t need to convince it otherwise, silence or distract it so I can do what must be done, or anything else aggressive, hostile, or bypass-y. I need to listen, and discover why it feels that way.

You can actually communicate with your emotional blocks—including whatever is giving you writer’s block.

The big discovery here is that you can actually communicate with your emotional blocks—including whatever is giving you writer’s block. They aren’t just energies unspooling in the body, but they have stories, fears, goals, and perspectives of their own, which you can actually learn!

That process of reconnection and discovery—which unfolds through energy moving, as happened to me in Nadia’s course—is the healing process itself. It also makes a great energy source for writing, as I mentioned above.

If you want to get into this, I strongly recommend reading  No Bad Parts . Do the exercises in the first few chapters. (The book is front-loaded in the value it delivers, which is nice.) From personal experience, it has really addressed my own writer’s block.

If you do get into this, please proceed with caution: it is like opening pressurized containers, to an extent that has repeatedly surprised me. Make sure to have good supports around yourself.

Many students of ours take our classes to find community, accountability, inspiration, and other forms of support. If you’re looking for another way to tackle your writer’s block head on, take a look at these courses on embodiment and journaling:

Courses on Embodiment

• Sing the Body Electric: Poetry of the Body
• Telling the Stories Your Body Holds
• Writing the Body: A Nonfiction Craft Seminar
• Writing Chronic Illness

Journaling Courses

• These Fragments: From Journal Pages to Personal Essays
• Where the Diary Ends and the Essay Begins
• Creating the Visual Journal
• From the Source: Journaling for Self-Knowledge and Creativity

Courses for Inspiration

• It Starts with Play: Get (Back) Into Writing
• Finding Inspiration in Dreams

You can also take a look at our upcoming online writing courses . 

Working with Writer’s Block: Final Thoughts

No one wants to suffer writer’s block. So we ask, quite understandably, “How to overcome writer’s block?” “How to get rid of writer’s block?”  and so on.

On the other hand, given its actual underlying causes, trying to “cure” or “banish” or “get rid of” a severe case of writer’s block, without addressing those causes, could be a bit like looking for a trick to silence the hungry kittens in your pantry so you can get back to composing your violin sonata. Even if you succeed, the whole thing is rather sad.

In this article, I’ve given you a detailed description of the causes of writer’s block, and a lot of options for addressing it—from the simple and straightforward to the profound and weird. In general, I’d say try simple first, just on the off chance you have a mild case. If that isn’t working, get weirder, and you may find yourself healing your actual issues too.

I hope this helps you, and happy writing!

Frederick Meyer

15 comments.

Thank you so much for this article, Fred. I’m glad I’m not alone in finding the standard advice unhelpful! Very keen to explore your suggestions.

Thank you so much, Kerry! 🙂

appreciate the article.

curious if i know the writer; Frederick, did you ever spend time at a retreat center in Vermont?

Yes, same person – hi Greg, wonderful to see you! 🙂

This is unbelievably relevant to where I am in my writing journey at the moment. For me, “Feeling constrained and creatively blocked by the “rules” of writing” and “Feeling afraid of having one’s writing compared with the work of others” are contributing factoring to my own writing block. There’s so much to unpack, and this is going to take several re-reads to fully digest this. Incredibly useful – thank you Frederick!

Thank you very much, George!

The only item on your list that I suffer from, in part, is being locked by the rules of writing. Mostly my writer’s block comes from indecision and an inability to craft a story with all the elements of character description, character arc, goals, a compelling conflict and antagonist. I steer away from themes involving police procedurals and legal stuff since I know very little about them and they seem overworked in the market. But thanks for your post.

Thank you, Robert! Yes, that sounds maybe like a “how-to”/overwhelm issue rather than necessarily a deeper internal block. Or, maybe: not knowing how to proceed is causing overwhelm (I’d get overwhelmed trying to repair a motorcycle even if I was excited to), so it’s technically an emotional block, but an easy one to address since the main need is additional knowledge.

We have a self-guided course on novel writing , as well as many online courses on fiction storytelling . Have a look! We’re happy to offer specific suggestions anytime (you can just contact us through our contact page).

Thank you, Frederick, for this informative and well-written article on writer’s block. I have no doubt that once you overcome any confounding emotions, you will be able to write well and deeply on a subect as infinite and vast as spirituality.

I look forward to reading more of your writing.

Thank you so much, Rebecca! I really appreciate your encouragement. 🙂

Thank you for this article, Frederick. It is exactly what I needed to read at exactly the right moment. I’m sure I will re-read it many times in the coming weeks as I contemplate all that it holds. I always find value in the articles you write, but this one hits such a chord, I had to comment and say thanks.

Thank you so much, Carol! 🙂

The most thorough investigation into writer’s block I’ve read. I’ll be reading it again, too. Thanks, Fred!

Hi, Donna—thank you so much! 🙂

Wonderful, it open the gates !

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From Staring to Starting: Overcoming Writer's Block for Your College Essays

September 10, 2014

The personal statement and various supplemental college essays are some of the most difficult pieces of writing you will likely ever be confronted with in your life. With the stakes so high, the need for profundity under such word count and time limit constraints can be suffocating. However, you will find that once you get over the initial hump and get a first draft on paper, things will flow much more easily from there. Of course, that’s a lot easier said than done. Our college admissions experts are here to help you every step of the way. But before resorting to outside help, try giving it a shot on your own.

The first step to overcoming writer's block on your college essays is to realize is that you’re not alone. Not only is every other college applicant in the world struggling in the same way you are, but also almost every single professional writer in history has experienced this kind of writer’s block or is experiencing it at this very moment. For me, the process of staring at a blank document for hours until the ideas somehow magically flowed onto the page was such a common occurrence throughout high school, college, and law school that I began to think it was unavoidable. And, to some extent, I was right.

Since then, having worked with students on thousands of college essays and helping them overcome this common stumbling block, I have realized that this “staring until your eyes can’t take it any more” process is more about procrastination than about creative process. Of course, brainstorming and outlining are important, but they are both very active processes. The trouble with college essays is that you can write about literally anything in your life that you find significant. Thus, you need a way to ignite your creative pilot light. But how?

Start overcoming writer's block on your college essays by asking yourself questions. Dozens of them. And then write down lengthy answers to each of them. This will help you engage in an active self-reflection about your experiences in life. At the top of the page, you should have two objectives highlighted: Organization and Impressiveness. These objectives are both equally important because you want to write something that showcases your positive attributes that will make you an asset to a college’s incoming class while doing so in a cogent and concise way. Keep these goals in mind when you’re answering the questions you’ve written for yourself to keep you on track and help you beat writer's block on your college essays .

So, what kind of questions should you ask yourself? First, you should start with the Common Application prompts and see if you can sketch out an outline to any of them:

• Some students have a background or story that is so central to their identity that they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.
• Recount an incident or time when you experienced failure.  How did it affect you, and what lessons did you learn?
• Reflect on a time when you challenged a belief or idea.  What prompted you to act? Would you make the same decision again?
• Describe a place or environment where you are perfectly content.  What do you do or experience there, and why is it meaningful to you?
• Discuss an accomplishment or event, formal or informal, that marked your transition from childhood to adulthood within your culture, community, or family.

If any good ideas come to mind, make sure to get them down on the page in some loose fashion right away. You can flesh out details later. Next, you should start to write your list of questions. They should look something like this:

• What is the most difficult thing I’ve ever had to deal with in my life?
• What has been my proudest accomplishment?
• When have I felt weakest in my life?
• What three experiences would I say made me who I am today?
• What experiences have I had that most closely parallel what I think college will be like and how did I react to them?
• What is the most thrilling discovery I have ever made?
• When have I prevailed against naysayers or against all odds?
• What is the most meaningful relationship in my life?
• What is my most meaningful possession?
• What makes me different from my peers?
• How do people around me perceive me? How do I perceive myself?
• If I had to write the title of my autobiography, what would it say?

These questions might seem ridiculous to be answering about yourself, but they are exactly what you might need to help get over writer's block on your college essays . Fill out this list with questions about yourself until you reach 25 questions. Then, begin answering them.

The next step will be outlining your essay so that you can achieve that critical goal of organization. Stay tuned on the  InGenius Blog for our next post about organizing your thoughts after a huge brain dump like this one...

Tags : supplemental essays , college application essay , college essays , college personal statement , college application counseling , admissions expert , college application expert , college admissions expert , applying to college

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Personal Statement: Top 10 Rules and Pitfalls

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From Top 10 Rules and Pitfalls // Purdue Writing Lab

Writing the personal statement: top 10 rules.

• Strive for depth rather than breadth. Narrow focus to one or two key themes, ideas or experiences
• Try to tell the reader something that no other applicant will be able to say
• Provide the reader with insight into what drives you
• Be yourself, not the ‘ideal’ applicant
• Get creative and imaginative in the opening remarks, but make sure it’s something that no one else could write
• Address the school’s unique features that interest you
• Focus on the affirmative in the personal statement; consider an addendum to explain deficiencies or blemishes
• Evaluate experiences, rather than describe them
• Proofread carefully for grammar, syntax, punctuation, word usage, and style
• Use readable fonts, typeface, and conventional spacing and margins

WRITING THE PERSONAL STATEMENT: TOP 10 PITFALLS

• Do not submit an expository resume; avoid repeating information found elsewhere on the application
• Do not use the same personal statement for each application. Generic statements are often obvious
• Do not preach to your reader. You can express opinions, but do not come across as fanatical or extreme
• Do not talk about money as a motivator
• Do not discuss systemic and social injustices simply as complaints, but as a relevant source of motivation for your overall goals and intended studies
• Do not remind the school of its rankings or tell them how good they are
• “Allow me to introduce myself. My name is…”
• “This question asks me to discuss…”
• “I would like to thank the admissions committee for considering my application.”
• “It is my sincere hope that you will grant me the opportunity to attend your fine school.”
• “In sum, there are three reasons why you should admit me…”
• Do not use unconventional and gimmicky formats and packages
• Do not submit supplemental materials unless they are requested
• Do not get the name of the school wrong
• Do not incorporate technical language or very uncommon words

Stewart, Mark Alan. Perfect Personal Statements. New York: Simon & Schuster Macmillan, 1996.

Strategies for Overcoming Writer's Block

Evidence-based tips and tactics.

Posted November 3, 2023 | Reviewed by Gary Drevitch

• What Is Motivation?
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• Self-criticism and self-doubt can undermine the writing process.
• Feeling overwhelmed by the scope of a project can lead to inertia.
• Sometimes, a change in your writing routine can break the monotony and stimulate creativity.

Writer's block, characterized by a prolonged inability to generate written content or a feeling of creative stagnation, affects writers across genres and disciplines. It is a common and often frustrating hurdle for individuals engaged in various forms of writing, from creative endeavors to academic and professional tasks. Let's take a look at some evidence-based strategies for overcoming writer's block. By understanding the factors contributing to it, and implementing proven methods, writers can enhance their creativity , productivity , and overall writing experience.

Several factors may lead to writer's block, including:

• Perfectionism . The relentless pursuit of perfection can paralyze creativity.
• Procrastination . Delaying writing tasks can lead to anxiety and diminished motivation .
• Negative Self-Talk . Self-criticism and self-doubt can undermine the writing process.
• Overwhelm. Feeling overwhelmed by the scope of a writing project can lead to inertia.

Evidence-Based Strategies

• Freewriting and Mind Mapping. Research suggests that freewriting, a technique in which writers generate spontaneous, unstructured content, can help overcome writer's block (Elbow, 1973). Mind mapping, a visual brainstorming method, can also facilitate idea generation and organization (Buzan, 1974).
• Setting Specific Goals. Setting clear, achievable writing goals can increase motivation and provide a sense of direction (Locke & Latham, 1990). These goals should be realistic, measurable, and time-bound.
• Cognitive Restructuring. Cognitive-behavioral techniques, such as cognitive restructuring, can help writers identify and reframe negative thought patterns that contribute to writer's block (Beck, 1976).
• Writing Rituals and Environments. Creating consistent writing rituals and optimizing writing environments can signal to the brain that it's time to write. Research shows that these practices can enhance productivity (Kaempfer & Vos, 2019).
• Collaboration and Peer Feedback. Collaborating with peers, participating in writing groups, and seeking feedback can provide fresh perspectives and motivation (Paulus & Brown, 2007).

Writer's block need not be an insurmountable obstacle. By understanding the factors that contribute to it and implementing evidence-based strategies, writers can rekindle their creativity and productivity. It is essential to tailor these techniques to individual preferences and needs, acknowledging that overcoming writer's block is a dynamic and personalized process.

As the research suggests, freewriting, goal setting, cognitive restructuring, optimizing writing rituals, and seeking collaborative support are effective approaches to address writer's block. Embracing these strategies can transform writer's block from an impediment into an opportunity for growth and increased creative output.

11 Tips for Overcoming Writer's Block

Writer's block is a complex psychological phenomenon, and it's important to recognize that experiencing it is not a sign of inadequacy. Even the most renowned writers have encountered writer's block at some point in their careers. The key is to develop a toolkit of strategies and coping mechanisms to address it when it arises and continue to nurture your creativity.

• Change Your Routine. Sometimes, a change in your writing routine can break the monotony and stimulate creativity. If you typically write in the morning, try writing in the evening, or vice versa. Changing your physical writing environment, such as moving from a desk to a park bench, can also help.
• Mindfulness and Meditation . Practicing mindfulness techniques and meditation can help calm your mind and reduce anxiety. Mindfulness encourages you to focus on the present moment, which can be helpful when you're feeling overwhelmed by the scope of a writing project.
• Read Widely. Reading books, articles, or other written materials that are outside your usual interests or genres can expose you to new ideas and writing styles. This can reignite your inspiration and creativity.
• Writing Prompts. Writing prompts are short, open-ended statements or questions designed to spark your imagination . They can be a great way to jump-start your writing when you're feeling stuck. Websites and books with writing prompts are readily available.
• Break the Project Into Smaller Tasks. Divide your writing project into smaller, manageable tasks. Instead of focusing on completing the entire piece, concentrate on finishing one section or writing a certain number of words each day. Achieving these smaller goals can provide a sense of accomplishment and motivation.
• Physical Activity. Engaging in physical activities like walking, jogging, or yoga can help clear your mind and reduce stress , which can be a major contributor to writer's block.
• Time Management Techniques. Employ time management methods such as the Pomodoro Technique, which involves working for a set period (e.g., 25 minutes) followed by a short break. This can enhance focus and productivity.
• Creative Writing Games. Participating in creative writing games, such as word association or storytelling with friends or writing peers, can be a fun and effective way to get your creative juices flowing.
• Write Anything. When you're experiencing writer's block, it can be helpful to write anything, even if it's unrelated to your main project. The act of writing itself can stimulate your creativity and help you regain your writing momentum.
• Use Cinema Therapy . There are some inspiring films out there that feel like they were written for writers. Check out Finding Forrester and Shakespeare in Love.
• Seek Professional Help. If your writer's block is severe and persistent, consider seeking assistance from a professional, such as a counselor or therapist who can provide guidance on overcoming psychological barriers that may be contributing to your writer's block.

Different strategies may work better for different individuals or in various situations. It's essential to experiment with these techniques to discover what works best for you. Developing a toolbox of coping strategies can help you navigate and conquer writer's block when it arises.

Beck, A. T. (1976). Cognitive therapy and the emotional disorders. International Universities Press.

Buzan, T. (1974). Use both sides of your brain. Dutton.

Elbow, P. (1973). Writing without teachers. Oxford University Press.

Kaempfer, S. H., & Vos, D. R. (2019). The effects of a flexible workplace on employee creativity. Journal of Organizational Behavior, 40(3), 249-265.

Locke, E. A., & Latham, G. P. (1990). A theory of goal setting and task performance. Prentice-Hall.

Paulus, P. B., & Brown, V. R. (2007). Toward more creative and innovative group idea generation: A cognitive-social-motivational perspective of brainstorming. Social and Personality Psychology Compass, 1(1), 248-265.

Barton Goldsmith, Ph.D., LMFT is a licensed psychotherapist, a columnist, and the author of 7 books, including Emotional Fitness for Couples.

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Personal Statement Generator

Write genuine, concise, and audience-targeted personal statements effortlessly..

Simple Way to Get Started with Our Personal Statement Generator

Regardless of your writing expertise, our personal statement generator allows you to quickly create compelling personal statements for university applications, job applications, scholarship opportunities, and graduate school admissions in 3 simple steps.

• 1. Briefly explain the purpose of the personal statement
• 2. Set up target audience, tone, and language
• 3. Click on Generate and get an AI-generated personal statement

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Discover the Personal Statement Template for Different Purposes

Here is a collection of personal statement templates, which will serve as valuable guides to help you structure your thoughts. Remember to tailor these templates to your specific goals and experiences.

Template of Personal Statement for University

Program: Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

As a passionate problem solver and technology enthusiast, I am eager to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science to delve deeper into the ever-evolving world of computing. From an early age, I have been fascinated by the potential of technology to transform lives and shape the future. This led me to explore programming languages and engage in various coding projects during my high school years.

Throughout my academic journey, I have consistently achieved top grades in mathematics and science-related subjects, which further cemented my decision to pursue a degree in Computer Science. My thirst for knowledge and my ability to grasp complex concepts quickly have allowed me to excel in both individual and group projects.

Beyond academics, I have actively participated in various programming competitions, where I not only honed my technical skills but also learned the importance of teamwork and collaboration. These experiences have taught me to thrive under pressure, think critically, and find innovative solutions to real-world problems.

I am particularly drawn to this university's Computer Science program due to its reputation for nurturing creative thinkers and fostering an environment of cutting-edge research. The opportunity to work alongside esteemed professors and collaborate with like-minded peers excites me, as I believe it will provide the ideal platform to unleash my full potential.

I envision leveraging my skills to contribute to groundbreaking advancements in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. With a firm foundation in Computer Science from this esteemed institution, I am confident that I can make a positive impact in the tech industry and contribute to addressing some of society's most pressing challenges.

Program: Bachelor of Arts in International Relations

Growing up in a multicultural household and witnessing global events unfold, I developed a profound curiosity for understanding international affairs and their impact on societies. This innate interest in different cultures, politics, and diplomacy has steered me towards pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations.

As a highly adaptable and open-minded individual, I thrive in diverse environments and actively engage in discussions with people from varying backgrounds. My fluency in multiple languages has further facilitated my ability to connect with individuals on a deeper level and comprehend their unique perspectives.

During my high school years, I actively participated in Model United Nations conferences, where I assumed the roles of diplomats and engaged in simulated debates on pressing global issues. These experiences honed my negotiation skills, fostered a deep appreciation for diplomacy, and strengthened my resolve to contribute to promoting peace and cooperation on the international stage.

Academically, I have consistently excelled in social sciences, history, and language courses. My interdisciplinary approach to learning enables me to grasp complex topics from multiple angles and develop comprehensive analyses. Furthermore, I have volunteered with several non-profit organizations, working on projects related to human rights, refugee assistance, and sustainable development.

I am drawn to this university's International Relations program due to its renowned faculty members and extensive opportunities for global exposure. The emphasis on experiential learning and internships aligns perfectly with my goal to gain practical insights into real-world diplomatic and geopolitical challenges.

My aspiration is to become a proficient diplomat, working tirelessly to bridge cultural divides, facilitate international cooperation, and advocate for human rights. Armed with the knowledge and skills from this esteemed university, I am eager to make a meaningful contribution towards building a more interconnected and harmonious world.

Personal Statement Template For Higher Education

Program: Master of Business Administration (MBA)

As a forward-thinking and results-driven professional, I am enthusiastic about pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) to elevate my career and broaden my impact in the business world. Throughout my undergraduate years in Economics, I developed a keen understanding of market dynamics and economic principles. However, I recognize the need to complement my strong academic foundation with practical business acumen and leadership skills.

With a proven track record of success in various internships and part-time roles, I have gained hands-on experience in project management, financial analysis, and market research. These experiences have exposed me to the intricacies of the corporate environment and affirmed my passion for problem-solving and strategic decision-making.

I am particularly drawn to this university's MBA program for its reputation as a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship. The program's focus on experiential learning and collaboration with industry leaders aligns perfectly with my ambition to spearhead transformative initiatives in the business landscape.

In addition to my academic and professional pursuits, I have actively engaged in community service, volunteering with organizations that promote financial literacy and empower aspiring entrepreneurs from underprivileged backgrounds. These experiences have taught me the importance of ethical business practices and the profound impact that purpose-driven leadership can have on communities.

My goal is to leverage the knowledge and insights gained from this esteemed institution to drive organizational growth, foster innovation, and create sustainable solutions to global challenges. With a determination to excel and a commitment to lifelong learning, I am confident that the MBA program at this university will propel me towards realizing my potential as a dynamic business leader.

Program: Master of Arts in Psychology

As a compassionate and empathetic individual with a fervent interest in understanding human behavior, I am eager to pursue a Master of Arts in Psychology to delve deeper into the complexities of the human mind and contribute meaningfully to the field of mental health.

During my undergraduate studies in Psychology, I was captivated by the diverse subfields of psychology and their potential to transform lives. My coursework exposed me to research on cognitive psychology, abnormal psychology, and counseling techniques, igniting a desire to apply this knowledge in a practical setting to assist individuals in their mental and emotional well-being.

Through internships and volunteering experiences, I have had the privilege of working with individuals facing various mental health challenges. These opportunities have reinforced my commitment to mental health advocacy and provided valuable insights into the critical role that compassionate and competent psychologists play in supporting individuals on their journeys to recovery.

I am particularly drawn to this university's Master of Arts in Psychology program for its strong emphasis on evidence-based practices and clinical training. The integration of theoretical knowledge with practical experiences aligns perfectly with my goal to become a well-rounded and effective mental health professional.

Beyond academia, I actively engage in mental health awareness campaigns and have initiated support groups to create safe spaces for individuals to share their experiences. These experiences have taught me the importance of empathy, active listening, and cultural sensitivity in providing holistic and client-centered care.

My aspiration is to specialize in clinical psychology and contribute to research that advances our understanding of mental health disorders. I am confident that the nurturing environment and expert guidance offered by this esteemed institution will enable me to grow both personally and professionally, ultimately empowering me to make a positive impact in the lives of individuals struggling with mental health issues.

Scholarship Applicant Personal Statement Template

Scholarship: [Name of Scholarship]

As an ambitious and determined student, I am honored to apply for the [Name of Scholarship] to pursue my higher education goals. Coming from a humble background, I have always understood the value of hard work and the transformative power of education.

Throughout my academic journey, I have consistently demonstrated excellence in both my coursework and extracurricular activities. Maintaining a high GPA while actively participating in various leadership roles has taught me the importance of time management, resilience, and teamwork.

I am deeply passionate about [Field of Study], as it aligns perfectly with my long-term career aspirations. The prospect of contributing to innovative solutions and advancements in this field excites me. However, the financial constraints of pursuing higher education have been a challenge, which is why I am extremely grateful for the opportunity this scholarship presents.

Beyond academics, I am committed to giving back to my community. I have volunteered with several non-profit organizations, dedicating my time and skills to initiatives that support underprivileged youth and promote education in disadvantaged areas. These experiences have not only shaped my perspective but have also reinforced my belief in the power of education to break barriers and transform lives.

Receiving the [Name of Scholarship] would not only alleviate the financial burden on my family but also serve as a validation of my hard work and dedication. I am determined to make the most of this opportunity and continue striving for excellence in my academic pursuits.

I wholeheartedly believe that this scholarship will not only enable me to achieve my dreams but also empower me to make a positive impact in my community and beyond. With gratitude in my heart and a steadfast commitment to academic excellence, I humbly request your consideration for the [Name of Scholarship].

As a driven and passionate individual, I am thrilled to apply for the [Name of Scholarship] to support my educational journey. Coming from a family that has faced financial hardships, I have learned the value of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of knowledge.

Throughout my academic career, I have consistently sought opportunities for personal growth and development. Engaging in research projects, participating in academic competitions, and pursuing internships in my chosen field have equipped me with practical skills and deepened my passion for [Field of Study].

I firmly believe that education is a powerful catalyst for positive change, and my goal is to leverage my knowledge and skills to contribute meaningfully to society. This scholarship would provide me with the necessary financial support to focus on my studies fully and dedicate myself to making a difference in my chosen field.

Beyond academics, I am actively involved in community service. Volunteering with local organizations has allowed me to witness the impact of education on individuals and communities. This firsthand experience has strengthened my commitment to utilizing my education to uplift those around me.

Receiving the [Name of Scholarship] would not only validate my hard work and dedication but also instill a sense of responsibility to give back to the community that has supported me. I am eager to use this opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, mentors, and leaders who can help me grow both personally and professionally.

I am deeply grateful for the chance to apply for this scholarship, and I assure you that, if selected, I will approach my studies with enthusiasm and dedication. With a heart full of gratitude and a determination to succeed, I sincerely request your consideration for the [Name of Scholarship]. Thank you for supporting students like me in their pursuit of education and a brighter future.

Job Application Personal Statement Template

Position: Marketing Manager

As a dynamic and results-oriented professional with a proven track record in marketing and brand management, I am excited to apply for the Marketing Manager position. Throughout my career, I have been driven by a passion for creating innovative marketing strategies that drive brand visibility and revenue growth.

In my previous roles, I successfully led cross-functional teams to execute integrated marketing campaigns that resonated with target audiences and exceeded business objectives. I am well-versed in leveraging data-driven insights to make informed decisions and optimize marketing efforts for maximum impact.

My ability to think strategically while remaining hands-on in the execution process has been instrumental in developing and launching successful product launches and brand initiatives. Additionally, my strong interpersonal skills have allowed me to foster collaborative relationships with stakeholders, agencies, and partners to ensure seamless project execution.

With a relentless focus on staying ahead of marketing trends and industry developments, I am confident in my ability to drive the success of the marketing team and contribute to the company's continued growth and success.

Position: Software Engineer

As a highly skilled and motivated software engineer, I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to join a dynamic team as a Software Engineer. My passion for coding and problem-solving has driven my successful career in software development, where I have consistently delivered robust and scalable solutions to complex technical challenges.

With a strong foundation in computer science and programming languages, I have a proven ability to design and implement software applications that exceed user expectations. My experience in Agile development methodologies and continuous integration has allowed me to thrive in fast-paced and collaborative work environments.

I am adept at analyzing code and identifying opportunities for optimization and efficiency improvements. My keen eye for detail and dedication to writing clean and maintainable code have resulted in the successful delivery of projects within tight deadlines.

Having worked on both backend and frontend development, I possess a holistic understanding of software development lifecycles and the importance of user-centric design. I am committed to staying up-to-date with the latest technologies and best practices to ensure that my contributions are at the forefront of innovation.

In this role, I am excited to bring my technical expertise and creativity to contribute to the development of cutting-edge software solutions that make a tangible impact on users' lives and drive the company's success in the ever-evolving tech industry.

Why You Should Create Your Own Personal Statement with Generator Tools Like HIX Writer

A personal statement offers you an opportunity to present yourself as a well-rounded individual. However, crafting a personal statement is challenging because it requires deep self-reflection, you struggle with putting your thoughts into words, and the personal statement word limit asks you to condense your life story and goals into a brief and impactful statement.

Our personal statement generator streamlines the writing process based on simple information input and then creates a well-written personal statement in seconds. Here are the specific reasons for using our personal statement generator.

Showcase individuality

You can create a personal statement that showcases your unique personality, motivations, and qualities, giving the professor or recruiter a deeper understanding of you.

Stand out from other applicants

In addition to academic achievements or work experiences, an effective personal statement created by our personal statement generator adds subjective insights and can make you shine from other candidates.

Help evaluation

By using our personal statement generator, you can come up with an informative and professional personal statement, admissions committees, and employers will more easily assess if your skills, values, and goals are aligned.

Experience the Benefits of Using HIX Writer's Personal Statement Generator

Our personal statement generator is a valuable and effective tool that ensures you will be set apart from other applicants and leave a positive first impression on your target audience. The main benefits include:

Ease of use

HIX Writer's AI personal statement writer offers a simple approach for producing personal statements with a user-friendly interface and easy button clicks, empowering individuals of all writing abilities to create compelling statements effortlessly.

Time-saving

Our personal statement generator can save you time and effort by providing a starting point for your writing process. You can compose a comprehensive and well-organized statement in no time.

Inspirational

You may find it difficult to find the right words to convey in your personal statement. That's where our personal statement generator steps in - presenting inspirational expressions or personal statement templates to help you overcome writer's block.

Genuine and Concise

A well-crafted personal statement should be authentic while being to the point. Our personal statement generator emphasizes sincerity in communication and maintains clarity to strictly comply with the limited personal statement word count.

Plagiarism Free

Plagiarism is considered a serious academic and ethical offense. Our personal statement generator guarantees the originality and uniqueness of your personal statement and makes sure it cannot be detected by any plagiarism checker.

Who Gains Most of Using Personal Statement Generator Tool at HIX Writer?

The people who must write a personal statement as part of an application process are the main beneficiaries of using a personal statement generator tool. Here is a breakdown of specific groups of people who will find our personal statement generator useful.

High School Students

Due to a lack of writing experience and competence, crafting a unique and compelling story for high school students is an uphill battle. Our personal statement generator takes the stress out of writing by automating the process for you.

College Students

You need a personal statement generator to produce an excellent personal statement that goes beyond your academic grades and test scores if you want to be admitted to a higher education program.

Scholarship Applicants

A captivating and convincing personal statement generated by our personal statement generator can demonstrate your background, achievements, and aspirations effectively, making you the best fit for a scholarship opportunity among others.

Job Seekers

When seeking an internship, part-time job, or full-time position, you need our personal statement generator to create a tailored summary of your qualification, experiences, and career goals to enhance the chance of an interview or employment.

Let Our Personal Statement Writer Tool Write for You

Experience Other Useful Writing Tools Like Personal Statement Generator

Resume bio generator, retirement message generator, job description generator, song lyrics generator, speech generator, acronym generator, interview question generator, funeral speech generator, movie script generator, can using the personal statement generator tool guarantee acceptance to a program or job.

A personal statement generator only helps you craft a standout personal statement that fully showcases your experience, accomplishments, and interests. It can't provide any guarantee of acceptance to a program or job. The acceptance primarily depends on your eligibility, strengths, and potential for success.

Is my personal information safe when using the personal statement generator tool?

Yes, your personal information and statements are kept confidential and secure with HIX Writer's personal statement generator. We prioritize data privacy and never share users' content.

Can the personal statement generator tool help me if I'm not a native English speaker?

Yes, our personal statement generator can help you if English is not your first language. You can use your native language in HIX Writer’s personal statement generator to explain the purpose of the personal statement and output it in either English or one of more than 30 other languages.

How do I know if my personal statement meets the word count requirement?

Personal statements often have word or character limits. To make sure your personal statement is succinct and satisfies the word count limit, it is advised that you use our word counter .

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Hello, Im in the beginning stage of writing my personal statement, however i am having super writer's block and i'm stuck. I dont know what direction i should take my essay. Its so difficult because i am a career changer , from medical to law and all my experience are medical related. so if there is anyone who would like to review it and maybe throw some ideas in that would be helpful.

Applications, Personal Statement, Addendum, diversity statement I am taking the December LSAT & because a couple of the schools I am applying to have a December deadline for the majority of their better scholarshi…

Personal Statement/Diversity Statement Combo Swap Hey! Does anyone want to swap personal statements and/or diversity statements for some feedback? If so pm me for my email!

I can't review it but I have an idea which may help to dislodge your block.

Yesterday I was listening to an old Joe Rogan podcast. He is a comedian and he had several comedian friends on that show that day. At one point they discussed their process for writing jokes and entire sets of jokes. One thing they all agreed on was that walking outside helped them in various ways; they found themselves more creative during that time and less likely to be unhelpfully distracted (cell phones, TVs, etc).

What you may consider is going for a walk. I think city-scapes work best for this, at least in my case. Maybe bring a pen and pad. You could bring your phone for voice recordings but the temptation to use facebook may be too great.

Anyway, as a career changer, there is probably something behind such a big move. You just need to allow that to come to surface and present itself. Or maybe you know what it is but you just need to organize/phrase it differently. Best of luck

@jkatz1488 thank you so much. I know why i made such a big change but its all about how to put it together and organize it.

@"CIICII.LOPEZ" said: Hello, Im in the beginning stage of writing my personal statement, however i am having super writer's block and i'm stuck. I dont know what direction i should take my essay. Its so difficult because i am a career changer , from medical to law and all my experience are medical related. so if there is anyone who would like to review it and maybe throw some ideas in that would be helpful.

Your more than welcome to send it over.

For writer's block, just start writing. You're bound to get a bunch of cobwebs at first, but if you just keep forcing yourself to write something, eventually you'll get something. My current PS was number one of like 6 different full PS topics I wrote about. It was also probably the only good one. For some reason #6 seems to have been the one. Just keep going!

First off, just write. It could be absolute garbage but you gotta get the crap out before the good stuff starts to flow.

✏️🛠️ How To Address and Overcome “Writer’s Block” (Hint: We Think It's Actually a Myth)

In this craft piece, writer and performer caroline rothstein takes “writer’s block” to task, exploring how accepting it as part of our process helps us write through the moments when we feel stuck..

I think “writer’s block” is a myth. A block implies stagnancy. A barrier. An adversary. A wall. But I think what’s really happening when we feel this so-called block is that we need to pause, regroup and take a beat. And I think feeling blocked, or getting stuck as I like to often say, can be a necessary — even essential, and hopefully productive — stage in the writing process. 

If I’m not ready to write, I’m not ready to write. If I need to empty my inbox in order to write, or watch multiple episodes of Love Is Blind: UK (like I did to push through the second draft of this very piece), or have a snack or take a walk, then that’s the writing. Or if I need to question my entire existence before I churn out a couple thousand words, that’s the writing process too.

I think the key to addressing and overcoming writer’s block, or whatever we want to call it, is cultivating and nourishing our writing process. Blockage can show up at any point. When we’re getting started. When we’re midway through a draft. When we’re riding the edge of a deadline. When we’re hours into something that was otherwise flowing swimmingly and then poof: We’re stuck treading water and can’t make it to the other side of the pool. 

When the writer’s block stage is met with resistance, it may very well become true to its name, blocking us from our organic flow. But when we meet it with preparation (and even expect it to arrive at some point), we can navigate it with ease. That way, anytime we’re “stuck,” we know that we innately have the tools to make it through. Below, some of those very tools and tips to help you hone your creative craft. 

TIP ONE: Identify What’s Going On

Because we’re in the literal business of working with words here, I think it behooves us to liberate ourselves from the “block” phraseology. That word itself can literally feel like a limitation and become a self-fulfilling prophecy. A little rebranding can go a long emotional and practical way. 

As Jeanann Verlee, author of prey , Said the Manic to the Muse and Racing Hummingbirds says, “Writer’s block is a psychological state that all creatives face and someone, somewhere along the course of history, had to give it a name.” 

Regardless of what we call it (playwright Jon Adam Ross calls it an “illumination block;” filmmaker, actor and writer Carmen LoBue calls it “akin to a spirit flu;” a character in Katherine Center’s romance novel The Rom-Commer calls it the “yips”), the first step is identifying why we feel blocked or stuck. Is the subject matter challenging, have we momentarily lost morale (in ourselves, the work, the process at large), or is it, perhaps, hard to tap into how we’re feeling about multi-layered content when there’s a literal movie being filmed on our block (I live in a place where this can be a thing!)? 

The next step is figuring out what to do about it. “A block is fixed and solid, something you’d move over or around,” says Alizah Salario, deputy managing editor at Stacker Media. “But to get unstuck as a writer, the only way out is through.” 

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Writing a Personal Statement

Preparing to Write

Brainstorming, don't forget, sample prompts.

A personal statement is a narrative essay that connects your background, experiences, and goals to the mission, requirements, and desired outcomes of the specific opportunity you are seeking. It is a critical component in the selection process, whether the essay is for a competitive internship, a graduate fellowship, or admittance to a graduate school program. It gives the selection committee the best opportunity to get to know you, how you think and make decisions, ways in which past experiences have been significant or formative, and how you envision your future. Personal statements can be varied in form; some are given a specific prompt, while others are less structured. However, in general a personal statement should answer the following questions:

• Who are you?
• What are your goals?
• How does this specific program/opportunity help you achieve your goals?
• What is in the future?

A personal statement is not:

• A variation of your college admissions essay
• An academic/research paper
• A narrative version of your resume
• A creative writing piece (it can be creative, though)
• An essay about somebody else

Keep in mind that your statement is only a portion of the application and should be written with this in mind. Your entire application package will include some, possibly all, of the materials listed below. You will want to consider what these pieces of the application communicate about you. Your personal statement should aim to tie everything together and fill in or address any gaps. There will likely be some overlap but be sure not to be too repetitive.

• Personal Statement(s)
• Transcripts
• Letters of recommendations
• Sample of written work
• Research proposal

For a quick overview of personal statements, you might begin by watching this "5 Minute Fellowships" video!

If you are writing your first personal statement or working to improve upon an existing personal statement, the video below is a helpful, in-depth resource.

A large portion of your work towards completing a personal statement begins well before your first draft or even an outline. It is incredibly important to be sure you understand all of the rules and regulations around the statement. Things to consider before you begin writing:

• How many prompts? And what are they? It is important to know the basics so you can get your ideas in order. Some programs will require a general statement of interest and a focused supplementary or secondary statement closely aligned with the institution's goals.
• Are there formatting guidelines? Single or double spaced, margins, fonts, text sizes, etc. Our general guideline is to keep it simple.
• How do I submit my statement(s)? If uploading a document we highly suggest using a PDF as it will minimize the chances of accidental changes to formatting. Some programs may event ask you to copy and paste into a text box.
• When do I have to submit my statement(s)? Most are due at the time of application but some programs, especially medical schools, will ask for secondary statements a few months after you apply. In these instances be sure to complete them within two weeks, any longer is an indication that you aren't that interested in the institution.

Below is a second 5 Minute Fellowships video that can help you get started!

Before you start writing, take some time to reflect on your experiences and motivations as they relate to the programs to which you are applying. This will offer you a chance to organize your thoughts which will make the writing process much easier. Below are a list of questions to help you get started:

• What individuals, experiences or events have shaped your interest in this particular field?
• What has influenced your decision to apply to graduate school?
• How does this field align with your interests, strengths, and values?
• What distinguishes you from other applicants?
• What would you bring to this program/profession?
• What has prepared you for graduate study in this field? Consider your classes at Wellesley, research and work experience, including internships, summer jobs and volunteer work.
• Why are you interested in this particular institution or degree program?
• How is this program distinct from others?
• What do you hope to gain?
• What is motivating you to seek an advanced degree now?
• Where do you see yourself headed and how will this degree program help you get there?

For those applying to Medical School, if you need a committee letter for your application and are using the Medical Professions Advisory Committee you have already done a lot of heavy lifting through the 2017-2018 Applicant Information Form . Even if you aren't using MPAC the applicant information form is a great place to start.

Another great place to start is through talking out your ideas. You have a number of options both on and off campus, such as: Career Education advisors and mentors ( you can set up an appointment here ), major advisor, family, friends. If you are applying to a graduate program it is especially important to talk with a faculty member in the field. Remember to take good notes so you can refer to them later.

When you begin writing keep in mind that your essay is one of many in the application pool. This is not to say you should exaggerate your experiences to “stand out” but that you should focus on clear, concise writing. Also keep in mind that the readers are considering you not just as a potential student but a future colleague. Be sure to show them examples and experiences which demonstrate you are ready to begin their program.

It is important to remember that your personal statement will take time and energy to complete, so plan accordingly. Every application and statement should be seen as different from one another, even if they are all the same type of program. Each institution may teach you the same material but their delivery or focus will be slightly different.

In addition, remember:

• Be yourself: You aren’t good at being someone else
• Tragedy is not a requirement, reflection and depth are
• Research the institution or organization
• Proofread, proofread, proofread
• How to have your personal statement reviewed

The prompts below are from actual applications to a several types of programs. As you will notice many of them are VERY general in nature. This is why it is so important to do your research and reflect on your motivations. Although the prompts are similar in nature the resulting statements would be very different depending on the discipline and type of program, as well as your particular background and reasons for wanting to pursue this graduate degree.

• This statement should illustrate your academic background and experiences and explain why you would excel in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering (UMass Amherst - M.S. in Civil Engineering).
• Describe your academic and career objectives and how the Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies can help you achieve them. Include other considerations that explain why you seek admissions to the Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies and your interests in the environmental field (Yale - Master of Environmental Management).  
• Please discuss your academic interests and goals. Include your current professional and research interests, as well as your long-range professional objectives. Please be as specific as possible about how your objectives can be met at Clark and do not exceed 800 words (Clark University - M.A. in International Development and Social Change).
• Write a 500- to 700-word statement that describes your work or research. Discuss how you came to focus on the medium, body of work, or academic area you wish to pursue at the graduate level. Also discuss future directions or goals for your work, and describe how the Master of Fine Arts in Studio (Printmedia) is particularly suited to your professional goals (School of the Art Institute of Chicago - MFA in Studio, Printmaking).
• Your statement should explain why you want to study economics at the graduate level. The statement is particularly important if there is something unusual about your background and preparation that you would like us to know about you (University of Texas at Austin - Ph.D in Economics).
• Your personal goal statement is an important part of the review process for our faculty members as they consider your application. They want to know about your background, work experience, plans for graduate study and professional career, qualifications that make you a strong candidate for the program, and any other relevant information (Indiana University Bloomington - M.S.Ed. in Secondary Education).
• Your autobiographical essay/personal statement is a narrative that outlines significant experiences in your life, including childhood experiences, study and work, your strengths and aspirations in the field of architecture, and why you want to come to the University of Oregon (University of Oregon - Master of Architecture).
• Personal history and diversity statement, in which you describe how your personal background informs your decision to pursue a graduate degree. You may refer to any educational, familial, cultural, economic or social experiences, challenges, community service, outreach activities, residency and citizenship, first-generation college status, or opportunities relevant to your academic journey; how your life experiences contribute to the social, intellectual or cultural diversity within a campus community and your chosen field; or how you might serve educationally underrepresented and underserved segments of society with your graduate education (U.C. Davis - M.A. in Linguistics).
• A Personal Statement specifying your past experiences, reasons for applying, and your areas of interest. It should explain your intellectual and personal goals, why you are interested in pursuing an interdisciplinary degree rather than a more traditional disciplinary one, and how this degree fits into your intellectual and personal future (Rutgers University - Ph.D in Women’s and Gender Studies).
• Your application requires a written statement to uploaded into your application and is a critical component of your application for admission. This is your opportunity to tell us what excites you about the field of library and information science, and what problems you want to help solve in this field. Please also tell us how your prior experiences have prepared you for this next step toward your career goals and how this program will help you achieve them (University of North Carolina Chapel Hill - Master of Science in Library Science).
• After watching the video, please describe what strengths and preferences as a learner you have that will facilitate your success in this innovative curriculum. What challenges in our curriculum do you anticipate and what strategies might you use to address these challenges? (MGH Institute of Health Professions PT - They recently redesigned their curriculum)
• Your personal goal statement should briefly describe how you view the future of the field, what your goals are to be part of that future, and what brought you to pursue an advanced education degree in your chosen field. You may include any other information that you feel might be useful. (Northeastern PT)
• Personal Statement: In 500 words or less, describe a meaningful educational experience that affected your professional goals and growth and explain how it impacted you. The educational experience does not need to be related to this degree. Focus on the educational experience and not why you think you would be a good professional in this field. (Simmons PT)
• Personal Statement (500 word minimum): State your reasons for seeking admission to this program at this institution. Include your professional goals, why you want to pursue a career in this field and how admission to this program will assist you in accomplishing those goals. (Regis College Nursing)
• “Use the space provided to explain why you want to go to this type of program.” (AMCAS)
• Address the following three questions(Though there is no set limit, most statements are 1–2 pages, single-spaced.): What are your reasons for pursuing this degree? Why do you wish to pursue your degree at this institution? How do you intend to leverage your degree in a career of this field? (Boston University MPH)
• Please submit a personal statement/statement of purpose of no more than 500 words for the department/degree of choice. Professional degree essays require a clear understanding of the _______ field and how you hope to work within the field. Be sure to proofread your personal statement carefully for spelling and grammar. In your statement, be sure to address the following: what interests you in the field of _____ what interests you in a specific degree program and department at this institution and what interests you in a particular certificate (if applicable). Please also describe how you hope to use your ________ training to help you achieve your career goals. (Columbia PhD in Public Health - Epidemiology)
• Because each Home Program requires significant original research activities in fulfillment of the requirements for the degree, we are interested in obtaining as much information as possible about your previous research experiences. Those who already have such experience are in a better position to know whether they are truly interested in performing ______ research as part of a graduate program. Please include specific information about your research experience in your Statement of Purpose. You may also use the Statement to amplify your comments about your choice of Home Program(s), and how your past experiences and current interests are related to your choice. Personal Statements should not exceed two pages in length (single spaced). Make sure to set your computer to Western European or other English-language setting. We cannot guarantee the ability to access your statement if it is submitted in other fonts. (Stanford Biosciences PhD)
• Your statement of purpose should describe succinctly your reasons for applying to the Department of ____ at ___ University. It would be helpful to include what you have done to prepare for this degree program. Please describe your research interests, past research experience, future career plans and other details of your background and interests that will allow us to evaluate your ability to thrive in our program. If you have interests that align with a specific faculty member, you may state this in your application. Your statement of purpose should not exceed two pages in length (single spaced). (Stanford Bioengineering PhD)
• Statement of purpose (Up to one page or 1,000 words): Rather than a research proposal, you should provide a statement of purpose. Your statement should be written in English and explain your motivation for applying for the course at this institution and your relevant experience and education. Please provide an indication of the area of your proposed research and supervisor(s) in your statement. This will be assessed for the coherence of the statement; evidence of motivation for and understanding of the proposed area of study; the ability to present a reasoned case in English; and commitment to the subject. (Oxford Inorganic Chemistry - DPhil)

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