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Post by word count on Oct 30, 2011 13:43:49 GMT -5
What is experience regarding word count for research proposals and writing samples? I am applying to post-doc fellowships and these documents "should not exceed" a particular number of words. Is it okay to exceed by 150 words or is your application automatically out if you exceed those?
Sorry if those are such dumb questions. I just really don't know and could not find more ways to lessen the words, especially for the proposal.
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Post by searchcomvet on Nov 9, 2011 10:38:37 GMT -5
Speaking as a former member of many a search committee: it doesn't matter, at all.
The job market is stressful enough without wasting time and mental energy on the small stuff.
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Post by counting on Nov 9, 2011 16:48:56 GMT -5
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Post by it depends on Nov 9, 2011 16:58:24 GMT -5
There is no universal answer to this question. Some universities/foundations have explicit requirements on this that they hold fast to. Others do not. For some it is simply an administrative screening process that if you do not meet it, your application will never be seen by the people who don't think such requirements should matter (e.g., AAAS fellowships). So, while yes, 150 words may not seem like a big deal, and in some cases it won't be at all, there are others where it will get your application treated the same as one that doesn't have a CV, the proper number of letters, etc. (i.e., it never gets forwarded to the review committee at all). So, rather than a blanket question to this board, I'd strongly suggest you figure out which situation you're dealing with and progress accordingly.
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