Applications for what? Is it for a PhD program?NucEngMajor said:So most application have three slots for research interests.
If it is plausible that your interests can co-exist and maybe even complement each other, I think it is good to include multiple research interests. For example, drawing from my field (mathematics): If someone writes down "functional analysis" and "numerical analysis" or, say, "functional analysis" and "probability theory", then both of these pairs contains much more information than either one of the three terms separately, and it also gives the committee a much better idea of what kind of candidate you are.NucEngMajor said:My question is should we put down our top three or would this look like we are indecisive about what we want and should only put down one?
Listing multiple research interests in an application can demonstrate your versatility and broad range of knowledge in different areas. It also shows that you are open to exploring diverse topics and can adapt to different research projects.
It is best to prioritize your research interests based on your level of expertise and experience in each area. You should also consider the relevance of each interest to the program or job you are applying for. Additionally, you can group similar interests together to showcase your strengths in a particular field.
Yes, you can include research interests that may not be directly related to your field of study. This can demonstrate your interdisciplinary skills and your ability to bring a unique perspective to your research. However, make sure to explain how these interests align with your overall research goals.
It is not necessary to provide an explanation for each research interest, but you can do so if you think it will add value to your application. If you are listing a research interest that is not commonly known, it may be helpful to provide a brief explanation to give the reader a better understanding of your interests and expertise.
Yes, you can change your research interests after submitting an application, but you should inform the relevant parties (such as the program or job coordinator) of any changes. This will ensure that your application is up-to-date and that your interests align with the project or program you are applying for.