For those of you who have written SOPs (or maybe even for those who review them), what is the ideal structure of the SOP? Currently, this is my format:
Paragraph 1: 6 lines describing my interest in pursuing a PhD in Bioengineering
Paragraph 2-5: Describing my past research experiences (1 paragraph for each lab)
Paragraph 6: 5 lines describing my future career goals
Paragraph 7: 12 lines on why I'm interested in that specific school/program
Paragraph 8: 7 lines on the general research area that I am interested in, mention potential PIs
Paragraph 9: 5 lines summarizing my past skills and demonstrating my ability to succeed in the program
At the end of paragraph 5, I am at 1.3 pages (2 page max for SOP). At the end of the last paragraph, I have maybe 2 or 3 lines until the SOP is 2 full pages. I am wondering if it would be beneficial if I go into depth on my research interests? In paragraph 8, I have mentioned the track that I am interested in, with 4 potential advisors. Is this sufficient or would reviewers like to see more in depth research interests?
Thanks for your input.
