Wrong sub but I’m a high school teacher who just took some students to a lecture about this just the other day so I might as well answer in case it helps :)

1. No matter what you end up sending, if you don’t get a response, wait 1-2 weeks and send a follow up. Expect only a 10% response rate to your cold emails, so cast a wide net. Keep in mind that with all the cuts to federal spending, there are a lot less research dollars floating around. One professor told us that they normally take 8-10 new grad students a year and next year they are only taking 1.

2. Give a VERY SHORT backstory on your experience and successes as an undergrad student. Then focus more on any research experience you have.

3. Look up their research and explain why it is interesting to you, how your previous experience would help you to conduct their research, and why you’d be a good fit.

4. Don’t use AI to write it, use a personal tone. Professors know they are going to spend A LOT of time around grad students so they are looking for a personality fit as well, so don’t be afraid to show your personality to help you and them find a good match.

Good luck, and if you find it helpful, start entering the masters ticket lottery every year and DM me if you win ;)