Where to start

[confusedgradhopeful]

are there any specific guidelines to start the SOP, i am looking to get into MS in Computer Science. thanks

[fuzzylogician]

Start with the SOP prompts that the schools you're applying to have on their applications. Normally they have specific questions they want answered they would like answered or information they ask you to provide. Most schools will want to know (1) why you are applying for the degree (=what are your professional/academic goals that the degree will help you achieve), (2) what background/preparation you have that make you suited for the degree, (3) what specific interests do you have (research interests, professors you want to work with or problems that interest you), and (4) why you are applying to each particular school (the so-called "fit" question). 

[JISNEGRO]

I found these example very useful when writing my own SOP, but keep in mind what fuzzylogician said and do answer the questions and make sure to address the prompt.

http://admissionsource.wordpress.com/2007/07/26/successful-essays/

Edited January 1, 2013 by JISNEGRO

[confusedgradhopeful]

all my application says is ""

Write a brief statement (500 words/3500 characters or less including punctuation, but not spaces) describing your reason(s) for pursuing graduate or postbaccalaureate study.

 Not very clear is it.