Table 2 Moves and steps in the coded SoPs

Move 1: Introduction

This move is primarily used by the applicant to get readers’ attention or to provide a brief introduction of the SoP’s content.

 Step 1-A: Generalization/Attention catcher

The applicant provides descriptions to catch readers’ attention or to claim the statement’s aim.

 Step 1-B: Background

The applicant states his/her education and personal background information.

 Step 1-C: Goals or decisions to applying

The applicant states his/her goal or decision to applying for the target program.

Move 2: Establishing credential

This move reveals the applicant’s relevant credentials for studying and conducting research at the graduate level.

 Step 2-A: Education background

The applicant reveals academic achievements related to the proposed field of study.

 Step 2-B: Research experience

The applicant addresses research experiences, research interests or potential topics for graduate research.

 Step 2-C: Work experience

The applicant discusses professional experiences.

 Step 2-D: Personal attributes

The applicant describes personal attributes that he/she believes are appealing to the target program.

 Step 2-E: Other experience

The applicant provides other personal information such as language/cultural knowledge, volunteer experiences and self-reflections.

Move 3: Reasons for applying

This move is used by the applicant to state reasons for pursuing graduate study at the target program or institution.

 Step 3-A: Gap in applicant background

The applicant discusses how his/her background can be improved by pursuing graduate study at the target program or institution.

 Step 3-B: Positive gains

The applicant describes the positive gains offered by the target program or institution.

 Step 3-C: Program/university attributes

The applicant describes the appeal of the target program or institution.

 Step 3-D: Disciplinary and research reasons

The applicant expresses his/her reasons for applying from the research/discipline perspective.

Move 4: Conclusion

This move summarizes the SoP and makes a final appeal for the admission committee’s favorable consideration.

 Step 4-A: Goals/predictions of future

The applicant states his/her future goals or career plan upon the completion of the target program.

 Step 4-B: Self-evaluation

The applicant re-states his/her relevant accomplishments for self-promotion.

 Step 4-C: Final appeal

The applicant makes a final appeal to end the SoP.