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When it comes to applying to university or filling in a job application form there are two rules that are generally observed - highlight your good points and brush over those less flattering aspects of life.

But, according to researchers at the University of Hertfordshire, whether you are successful comes down to the specific words and phrases used on your form.

Today the university published the top 10 words it believes will lead to success. The list was compiled by psychologists and admissions experts at the university, and includes the words achievement, evidence, experience and impact.

The researchers also identified the words that should be avoided on any application. The words "always" and "never" should not be used as they suggest the applicant is exaggerating their abilities. And instead of the word "mistake", applicants should admit to "learning a valuable lesson". Claiming that "someone was at fault" should be replaced with an admission that there were "differences of opinion that were overcome".

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Karen Pine, a development psychologist at the university, said: "Every recruiter and admissions office will have to assess hundreds, if not thousands, of personal statements form hopeful applicants and will make their decision based on what they can see on paper. Choosing the right words is, therefore, vitally important if your application is to stand out from the rest."

The findings come as thousands of students get ready to send off their university applications prior to this month's first round of deadlines for Oxbridge and medical courses.

The top 10 words to include on an application form are:

Achievement

Active

Developed

Evidence

Experience

Impact

Individual

Involved

Planning

Transferable skills

The 10 words to avoid:

Always

Awful

Bad

Fault

Hate

Mistake

Never

Nothing

Panic

Problems

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