This video contains some brief advice on writing personal statements (but this is just like, my opinion man.) Why am I posting this in February? If you are applying to things in 8 monthsNOW IS THE TIME TO WRITE THESE THINGS UP. That way you have time to bring all your documents to people and have them read and critique things. Good luck out there!

Before starting a career in academia you may want to watch my postdoc exodus video.