How do I write a successful personal statement?

In order to write a successful personal statement, it is important to remember to make it exactly that- personal. Remember that university tutors are receiving hundreds of these so you want to make yours stand out from the crowd and catch their eye. Avoid using cliche phrases such as 'I've always had a passion for [chosen subject]', and focus on explaining what it is about your subject that drives your passion. Focus on key elements of your A-Level courses which you find particularly interesting and tailor these to the universities you wish to apply to. For example, if you are applying to study English Literature at, say, the University of Birmingham then you may wish to articulate your excitement at the prospect of taking an English Language module, explaining that something you particularly enjoy in your studies is looking at how writers employ certain linguistic choices in order to represent their characters in a certain light. Similarly, if applying to a university which you know has a focus on foreign literature, demonstrate your knowledge of this by perhaps speaking of your French/ German GCSE or a text in translation which you have read and enjoyed. Further, you may look to link your extra-curricular activities and part-time work to your future degree, demonstrating your commitment and flexibility to your studies.