How do I structure a personal statement?

Begin the personal statement by being direct and introducing yourself and what it is your applying for. With a personal statement for university, it is important to follow on with a paragraph explaining why it is that you have a particular interest in the subject. The following paragraph should outline which specific parts of the subject interest you (i.e Early Modern History, Medieval Europe and so on). For Oxbridge personal statements, it is important to show a particular academic interest in the topic you are picking, and to not appear to be interested in the reputation of the university. In regards to extra circular activities, I would restrict it to a brief description of your activities, focusing only on those that are particularly relevant to the topic. It is important above all to show why you have an academic interest in the topic, and why they should pick you (do this by demonstrating a passion for the subject)