SOP

It is not necessary to mention about your backlogs in the SOP. Sometimes, universities provide a separate space in the application for explaining any gap or inconsistency in the academic record. However, in case no such space for justification is provided in the application, you can use SOP to justify the reasons for such inconsistency in your record.  You must mention about them briefly and explain well with the genuine reasons that led to these backlogs. Mentioning about backlogs with our explanation must be avoided.

The main ideas covered in the essay should be summarised in the statement of purpose conclusion. In order to leave the reader with a lasting impression, it should briefly reiterate the thesis statement and offer a concluding idea or argument. The conclusion should be succinct, but it also has to be interesting and convincing. Moreover, the conclusion should be able to convince the Ad Com about your candidature for the programme. You can read a sample sop for MS in project management to understand how the conclusion should be written.

To customize your SOP or Personal Statement for a specific university, research the university and programme first. You can then list out which specific features of the programme and the university suit your interests and how would they help you achieve your goals. You can also describe how the university would be the ideal lauchpad for you, given the curriculum, faculty or in-house amenities it provides. 

A personal statement is a document that should include your motivations and interests, mentioning in detail about goals and aspirations. Meanwhile, an SOP focuses more on why you want to pursue the programme you're applying to and your academic abilities and relevant experiences.

The introduction for an SOP should demonstrate your passion/ interest in this field. You may share an anecdote in this regard or may choose to state how pursuing this programme will help you attain your future goals. The introduction sets the tone of the narrative, which is to come later. Therefore, it should be catchy and authentic. 

The statement of purpose is an intrinsic part of the application for studying abroad. It is the deciding factor for the Ad Com. They already know your academic and other scores. Now, through the SOP you need to project your motivation for pursuing the particular program, academic background, projects and other experiences that align with the intended course, your career goals, and reasons for selecting the particular university.

While most universities require an SOP, some can also ask for a personal statement. Though both are similar, there are some differences. An SOP is focused on motivation for the program, career goals, reasons for selecting the particular university. It highlights qualifications, achievements, and strengths. A personal statement is basically like a narrative that introspects, discussing the background, values, challenges faced, and personal motivations. It shows who you are and should be authentic, insightful, and reflective.

An SOP helps the university admission committees to learn more about you before they make the final call about your candidature. The UG SOP must be considered as a formal document, where aspirants discuss their interests, background, achievements, and vision. Universities mainly expect students to talk about their academic interests and journey thereafter. Remember that the SOP should not be a repetition of what is mentioned in the resume, but should add to it. A strong SOP format for undergraduate programs gives them exactly that.