How Can I Write an Effective REU Statement of Interest in Mathematics?

[eok20]

i'm applying to some math reus for summer and have to write statements of interest. i searched google for some tips on writing them but have only found very general things; can anyone give me some pointers on what to say specifically for an reu statement of interest or refer me to a relevant webpage?

thanks a lot.

 

[physics girl phd]

Are there particular research areas that interest you (the REU forms usually ask for this)... but what inspires that interest? Coursework? previous labwork? Extra-curricular interests?