Tips 
Be specific and be concise.​  Applicants who write research statements should ​succinctly 
describe academic research and research-related experiences and clearly indicate how those 
experiences helped form skills, knowledge, and qualities that make the student a good 
graduate candidate.  Be specific about resources that you will use at the university.  
Show don’t just tell​.  Passion for a field is important, but stating it is not enough.  You should 
show​ that your passion is justified through concrete anecdotes that demonstrate that passion 
or engagement. 
Follow every anecdote with a concrete take-away ​that connects the reader to the skills, 
knowledge, or readiness qualities you have.  This will remind readers how you are qualified as a 

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graduate student.  
Avoid jargon​. Readers may or may not be in the field. 
 
Organization of a Research Statement for Graduate School 
Application
research statement