Common app essay or personal statement?

<p>Hi!!</p>

<p>The common app has the essay with the personal story for 13-14'. I know that there's also a personal statement students can add into applications.</p>

<p>I want to talk about family issues in one of my essays. Should I do it as my common app essay, or do I do it as a personal statement?</p>

<p>Also, how long are personal statements usually?</p>

<p>Thank you for the advice.</p>