If a school doesn't suggest length, how long should a PS be? Forum

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studyingeveryday

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If a school doesn't suggest length, how long should a PS be?

Post by studyingeveryday » Fri Oct 14, 2016 9:40 pm

Some schools note that it should be two pages, but for those that don't suggest a length, what are some thoughts on a 3 page PS (double spaced of course)?

haus

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Re: If a school doesn't suggest length, how long should a PS be?

Post by haus » Fri Oct 14, 2016 10:09 pm

If no guideline is provide the best practice is to write you PS as a haiku.

Ok, I have no idea. I suspect you could push it to 3 pages, but I would personally be disinclined to go further. You might want to consider asking this question in the Spivy thread, since several people who spent time reading/reviewing PSs are answering questions.

http://www.top-law-schools.com/forums/v ... 3&t=197451

eta: or you could just go with that haiku idea

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Mr. Archer

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Re: If a school doesn't suggest length, how long should a PS be?

Post by Mr. Archer » Fri Oct 14, 2016 10:26 pm

Three pages is probably a stretch for most personal statements. If there's a unique topic and the statement can stay interesting for three pages, then it might work. Try writing your two-page statement first. Then, see if you think it could be better with one to two extra paragraphs of material about the story you're telling. Or, see if something in the statement gives you a tie-in to the specific school and allows you to write a paragraph about why you want to attend that school. Just keep in mind that having more space you can use doesn't necessarily mean you should use it.

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studyingeveryday

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Re: If a school doesn't suggest length, how long should a PS be?

Post by studyingeveryday » Sat Oct 15, 2016 9:54 am

Thank you! I'll ask in the Spivey thread as well but probably going to keep it to 2 pages then.

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