Guide
How to write clear, factual statements
A good statement tells your story plainly: what happened, and how it affects your daily life. This guide shows how to write personal statements and buddy statements in your own words.
Four parts of a clear statement
- 1
What happened
Describe the event or the start of your symptoms with dates and places, as best you remember them.
- 2
What you experience now
Explain your symptoms in everyday words — how often they happen and how strong they are.
- 3
How it affects your life
Give real examples from work, sleep, relationships, and daily tasks.
- 4
Keep it factual
Stick to what you know and have lived. Simple and honest is stronger than dramatic.
About buddy statements
A buddy statement is a short account from someone who served with you or has seen changes in you over time. It can add detail that records alone do not capture.
Ask the person to describe specific things they noticed, with rough dates if they can. A few clear examples are more useful than general praise.
Write it your way
Frequently asked questions
How long should a statement be?
What if I do not remember exact dates?
Put your story into words
Use guided prompts to draft your statements at your own pace.