MPhil applications - How flexible/sure should I be, and should I mention this possibility?
Typically departments (at least in the U.S.) will tell you on their website whether they have a preference about how you present your intentions.


I think you should try to get into a PhD program if possible.  However, you could apply to one or two master's programs just in case.

If your intention is to eventually get a PhD, just be honest about that.  In fact, for many departments, that would be a plus.


No one is going to hold you to what you write in your SOP.


They want to make sure you are motivated and have some sort of creative idea(s) -- but no one is going to check you against your SOP two years from now.

I'm not sure I covered everything.  To get useful responses, try to modularize.  It's okay to write more than one question.