Linguistics PhD SOP- too much focus on past experience?

[iamblinguist]

Hi everyone!

I'm currently working on my SOP for applications to linguistics PhD programs. I've been advised to include more information about the direction I want to head and the questions I want to ask than about my previous research experience. That being said, I think I may have too much info about my past experience and not a clear enough idea about the direction I want to head. Any thoughts on this? Should I include all relevant research experience and conference presentations and elaborate on them in my statement, or spend more ink on my future plans?

Also, if anyone has a successful SOP that they would be willing to share so that I can get a sense of the format I would very much appreciate it!