It’s tough to write about yourself. No one wants to sound self-absorbed, yet downplaying your strengths isn’t beneficial. The truth is, many post-graduate programs require some form of personal statement –– so it’s good to know what to include, and what to avoid.

Step 1: Do your research
Find out what sort of essay your application requires. Length, format and criteria regarding its content are all factors you should know. Equally important is doing some in-depth research on the program to which you’re applying. While your personal statement is about you, it should also be specifically tailored. Find out about things like the courses offered and whether or not there are placements or internships, and then express within your statement why these aspects of the program fit you.

Step 2: Write it (and re-write it)
When writing your statement, refrain from using generalizations and clichés. Don’t say, “I’m a team player” in lieu of explaining your leadership role and specific contributions to a project. In addition, highlight the most pertinent and compelling examples of your successes rather than simply regurgitating your resumé verbatim. Most important, write professionally, but allow your personality to shine through.

Step 3: Proofread
Proofread, proofread, proofread. It’s crucial. One typo can ruin an otherwise good impression, so read your statement over, show it to your Mom, send a copy to your significant other –– then read it over again. Once it’s submitted, there’s no turning back.

Obtaining a reference letter –– whether for a grad school application or a job opportunity –– is a crucial step to making a good first impression. Yet asking for a reference can be a nerve-wracking experience. Which professors are best to ask? Is it rude to ask for two, three, or even a dozen letters? For many applicants, it may be a big relief to know there is standard etiquette when it comes to reference letters.

Who should be your reference?

Keep in mind a few criteria when deciding who to approach for a reference. Reputation goes a long way, particularly when applying to a post-grad program, so it’s better to ask a fulltime professor than a TA. The professor should also be someone familiar with your work. Asking your first-year politics professor from a 200-person lecture, for instance, might not be the best idea. Consider the following: Did you do well in the professor’s course? Did they personally mark your essays or exams? Did you show up to their class regularly? If the answer to one or more of these is no, you might want to pick a different reference.

How to ask for a reference letter
The most important thing when asking for a reference is to do it well in advance. It’s part of a professors job to provide students with references, but they’re busy people –– so it’s good to give them ample notice of at least a month or more before your deadline. Ask for the letter either in person or through a professional, well-written e-mail. Don’t forget to include information about how many letters you will need and when they will be due.

The crucial step: following up
Your job is far from over once you’ve asked for a reference. To make things easier for your professor, and to ensure they write the most compelling, flattering letter possible, be sure to provide them with information. Your resumé, personal statement/cover letter, academic history and contact information are crucial. But think of other helpful tidbits, too –– such as portfolio samples if you’re applying to a media program. You also need to let your reference know exactly how to submit the letter, whether by mail or online. Sending e-mails regularly checking on the progress might seem like nagging, but it’s a good way to keep your references informed and remind them of upcoming deadlines.

Saying thank you
Professors expect to be asked for references, but that doesn’t mean a warm thank you isn’t required for their effort. A sincere e-mail or in-person thanks is sufficient. Tokens of your appreciation should only be given once the letter is completed, and some professors will not accept gifts due to the appearance of bribery. What often means the most is finding out if their reference paid off –– so drop them a line to say if you got your dream job or acceptance letter.