You don't need to follow a set structure to write a personal statement for medical school, but observing some basic guidelines can help you get your thoughts on paper. Begin with an introductory paragraph that hooks the reader and keeps him reading. Your sections don't have to follow a particular order, but you should concentrate each new section or paragraph on one main aspect of your statement, such as reasons you want to become a doctor, your academic qualifications for medical school, or personal qualities you can bring to the role of a health professional.
Stories make up a large part of the most effective personal statements. Don't simply state how qualified you are; instead, share a life experience that demonstrates your skill in a particular area of medicine or healthcare. Show, don't tell. Instead of giving a cliched reason for becoming a doctor, such as "I like helping people," describe in personal terms something that happened to you and shaped your goals, such as participation in a medical mission or experiencing a loved one's illness. Keep the content relevant to the institution and your medical career. The information you include in your personal statement will tell the reader who you are, why you want to study medicine, what makes you the best candidate for a place at the school and your hopes for the future.
Write in the first person, using "I" and "me," but don't start every sentence with "I." Avoid using slang. You don't need to write as formally as in a research paper or essay, but you still need to use good English. Vary your sentence structure to avoid repetition. Don't overload the personal essay with jargon, but use medical and technical technology when relevant, such as when describing which areas of medicine interest you.
When you've finished writing your personal statement, take a break of a day or two, then go back to it with fresh eyes. Cut out unnecessary words, making it concise and readable. Correct grammar and spelling mistakes; your vocation as a doctor means conveying a professional attitude and communicating with precision, so the admissions committee will want to see evidence of commitment and attention to detail. Spending time perfecting your personal statement shows you're dedicated to excellence.