72 words over

[joetro]

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I'm 72 words over the word limit for a personal statement (meant to be less than 1,000 words). I've cut like crazy, but here I am. The statement had a number of detailed points that needed to be addressed, and I've worked in four different psychology labs, so there was a lot of research to talk about. Is it a problem to go a little over? Obviously they won't be counting, but if I can't follow a basic direction like that ....

 

[phd2006]

I'm 72 words over the word limit for a personal statement (meant to be less than 1,000 words). I've cut like crazy, but here I am. The statement had a number of detailed points that needed to be addressed, and I've worked in four different psychology labs, so there was a lot of research to talk about. Is it a problem to go a little over? Obviously they won't be counting, but if I can't follow a basic direction like that ....

As an example your post is 82 words. In my first edit, I was able to cut it to 60:

My personal statement, to be less than 1000 words, is 72 over the limit. I have cut like crazy. A number of detailed points needed to be addressed. I wanted to incorporate my varied research experiences in four psychology labs. Is it a problem to go over? Hopefully they will not be counting, but if I cannot follow basic directions....

(Note: if you take issue with me making an example of your post, please let me know, and I will delete/edit. I don't want to come across as offensive)

1000 words is more than generous. In my opinion, you should not exceed the limit. People tend to use many unnecessary words in writing and speaking (and yes, before people jump, I'm just as guilty of it as anyone). Take an honest look at your statement -- I guarantee you, at least half of the word "that" can be eliminated, be direct and succinct.

 

[joetro]

Thanks. Yes, I know, I do have a write verbosely, but I believe I have cut a lot out of it. I'll keep plugging away.

 

[docjohng]

The best thing anyone can do when it comes to an essay, a personal statement, whatever, is to have an editor. Have an objective third-party read it over and edit it for clarity and such. I've never met an editor who couldn't clean up a wordy essay or article and shorten it in the process.

John

 

[joetro]

Thanks. I've had three people look at it, and all have been helpful. 59 words left to go!

 

[dakwegmo]

I guarantee you, at least half of the word "that" can be eliminated, be direct and succinct.

So true. Removing the superfluous "that"s makes your writing sound so much better.

Without seeing your actual letter it's going to be tough to tell you where to cut 60 words, but I do think you need to be under the limit, whatever it is. Not only are admissions committees looking for you to follow directions, they are looking at your writing skills and ability to determine what's important and what's not.

Having worked in four labs you probably had some similar responsibilities in each lab. If you haven't already done so, you might consider covering the responsibilities that were common to all labs in one section, and then focusing on the unique aspects of each lab.

 

[joetro]

998 now! Thanks for the help.

 

[irish80122]

I am so jealous of the 1,000 word limit Joetro. Most of mine are 500 and it is killing me!

 

[joetro]

Just finished a 600 word one in 598. I really don't seem to remember so many word limits last year. I think it can be really tough, especially when they require you to answer 6 questions all a-d. Why not just ask for less information or allow more words? It must be very hard for people who have been out for a while or are coming to psychology from a totally different career to explain themselves in such a short amount of space. Oh well.

 

[phd2006]

Congrats! Editing yourself is a tough task. Helps to have input from many others.

 

[chimni]

sigh. I'm still 825 words over the limit...

 

[irish80122]

For one of my limits it says one to two pages with 12 point font. It doesn't mention spacing, however. Should I single or double space?

 

[Quynh2007]

where is everyone getting a word limit? I'm getting scared now. My word thingy's about 830, but none of my apps have specifically said a limit, just to upload my SoP. The only one was Hawaii (which just said to stay inside the box).

 

[irish80122]

Most that I have seen are not in the actual application but on the psych websites where they describe all of their requirements. Be sure to check those out!

 

[amy203]

where is everyone getting a word limit? I'm getting scared now. My word thingy's about 830, but none of my apps have specifically said a limit, just to upload my SoP. The only one was Hawaii (which just said to stay inside the box).

I have scoured the USC website, and I can't seem to find a word limit (I noticed you're applying there as well). Please post if you find one!

On average, I've heard that about a page and half, single spaced, is appropriate, so you should be OK.

 

[edieb]

As admissions counsels don't count words and don't care if you're over, don't worry about being over a little bit (i.e., <100 words)