Como escrever a carta de motivação - passo a passo!

Summary

In this video, Duda Kraus provides essential guidance on crafting a compelling motivation letter, also known as a Statement of Purpose (SOP), Personal Statement, or Cover Letter. Aimed at helping Brazilians secure research positions abroad, Duda highlights the importance of writing a personalized and tailored letter, rather than using generic templates. The video offers valuable tips on structure, such as introducing yourself professionally, explaining your academic and professional background, aligning your goals with the program, and showcasing your strengths. Duda emphasizes the importance of careful revision, authenticity, and attention to specific program requirements.

Takeaways

• 😀 The motivation letter is one of the most important documents in your application process, showcasing your interest and background for the position.
• 😀 Be mindful of the specific criteria or bullet point structure that the university or institution requests for the motivation letter.
• 😀 Avoid using ready-made templates from the internet, as they often come with a personal formatting style unsuitable for academic applications.
• 😀 A motivation letter not only communicates your motivation but also demonstrates your ability to write clearly in the language of the program you’re applying for.
• 😀 Start working on your motivation letter well in advance, with multiple drafts and revisions, to ensure it is of high quality.
• 😀 Use grammar-checking tools and seek feedback from others to refine your letter, but do not rely on AI-generated letters, as this can be easily detected by experts.
• 😀 The letter should begin with a professional introduction, stating your interest in the program or position without excessive informality.
• 😀 In the body of the letter, provide a detailed description of your academic and professional trajectory, showing your alignment with the program.
• 😀 Highlight any relevant research experience and how it connects with the position you are applying for, especially if it is a graduate or postdoctoral program.
• 😀 Conclude your letter by reiterating your suitability for the program and how it fits into your long-term career goals, focusing on the specific program's relevance.
• 😀 Always tailor your motivation letter to the specific program or position you are applying for, avoiding generic language or references that can apply to multiple applications.

Q & A

What is the primary purpose of a motivation letter?

The primary purpose of a motivation letter is to communicate your motivation and interest in a specific position or program, while also showcasing your background, experiences, and how they align with the opportunity.

What are the different terms used for motivation letters?

Motivation letters are also referred to as SOP (Statement of Purpose), Personal Statements, or Cover Letters, depending on the context.

Why is it important to follow specific criteria when writing a motivation letter?

It is crucial to follow specific criteria because universities or institutions often provide guidelines that must be addressed in the motivation letter. These guidelines ensure that the application meets their expectations and increases your chances of success.

What is the risk of using ready-made templates for a motivation letter?

Using ready-made templates can be a mistake because they might not fit the specific style required for graduate or postdoctoral programs. Moreover, templates may be too personal or formal for the program you're applying to, potentially hurting your chances.

How can grammar-checking tools help in writing a motivation letter?

Grammar-checking tools like Grammarly or similar software can help correct errors and suggest improvements, ensuring that the motivation letter is well-written. However, the letter should still be personally crafted to avoid sounding generic.

Why should you avoid generating a motivation letter using GPT-based tools?

Generating a motivation letter using GPT tools is not advisable because the resulting letter may appear too standardized and lack a personal touch. Experts can easily detect such letters, and this could result in your disqualification from the selection process.

What should the first paragraph of a motivation letter focus on?

The first paragraph of a motivation letter should briefly introduce yourself and your interest in the position or program. While some programs might like a more engaging or 'hooked' introduction, most academic programs prefer a sober, professional start.

How should you structure your academic and professional trajectory in the letter?

You should describe your academic and, if applicable, professional trajectory in chronological order. This allows the reader to understand your career and academic decisions, such as why you chose a particular master's or doctoral program.

How can you demonstrate the fit between your past experiences and the program you're applying for?

To demonstrate fit, you should explain how your previous academic and professional experiences align with the position or program. This includes highlighting your skills and research interests that match the program's goals.

What should you emphasize in the conclusion of the motivation letter?

In the conclusion, you should recap your main strengths and reiterate why you are a good candidate for the program. Avoid generic reasons like career benefits or visa issues, and instead focus on how the specific program fits with your academic and professional goals.