Thinking about all the assignments you have to hand over in the process of higher education, you’d probably get perplexed. We’re speaking of multiple written tasks in various courses. All of them matter equally and bring critical scores. However, the college application process is the most demanding.
Most students agree that college essays are challenging. Professors have complex requirements you need to follow and respect tight deadlines. On top of that, college application essays must be authentic, coherent, persuasive, straight to the point, and easy to read. All these segments must get perfectly aligned in one impeccably written piece.
Unfortunately, not everybody has a gift for essay composition. Some students lack original ideas, while others struggle with thought flow. Moreover, some learners have a job or kids and find it impossible to juggle all duties at once. Finally, there are those feeling overwhelmed by anxiety and writing blocks.
If any of these scenarios sound familiar, you’re not alone. Writing an appealing application paper is not plain sailing. It has a complicated nature but can get improved with practice and dedication. Here are some practical tips for writing a top-scoring college essay.
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Start Early and Write Several Drafts
Don’t procrastinate until the very last week of college admissions. Check the requirements shared by the institution and start working on the first draft immediately. Regardless of how satisfied you are with it, put it aside and check it after a few days.
At this point, you might realize that you need assistance. If you’re stuck at the first draft, a site that writes essays might prove invaluable. Besides giving you guidance in the writing process, it will ease the pressure of starting on the right foot.
While reading it, decide how you would grade it if you were in the place of admissions officers. Is the writing engaging and topics relevant? Do the writer’s thoughts flow logically? If not, begin the process from scratch and tackle the weak points from the first draft. Continue until you’re finally happy with the outcome.
It’s Time to Be a Bit Self-Centered
It’s no surprise that most high school students avoid being self-centered. They prefer to share other people’s experiences, talk in general, or describe favorite activities and artists. Yet, this approach is misleading for college applications. Instead, look inward and focus on your personality, interests, quirks, and passions.
And while you may be elaborating on a charity, idol, or trip, your opinion matters. How did the experience change your life perspectives? Have your ambitions increased, and how? Use your imagination and prior knowledge to give relevant examples. Teachers are interested in your opinion and views and appreciate authentic standpoints.
Stick to Your Style
Though you might think a pompous highly academic style will fascinate your professors, that’s not always the case. Overly relying on the thesaurus and using archaic or rare words won’t score you points. Instead, such phrases might make your college admissions essay sound awkward, and confuse the reader.
Above all, you should be comfortable with your style. A natural writing style appropriate for the essay topic is vital. Words should flow spontaneously and not overburden the text. However, pay attention to keeping sentences concise and meaningful. Also, using linking words for coherence is mandatory.
Experiment with the Unexpected
Thinking out of the box is essential if you want your college application essay to stand out from the crowd. What’s the point of writing a lengthy piece packed with information the professor’s already read in your peers’ essays? Hence, consider including something out of the ordinary to twist your narration.
Depending on the essay’s context, you might write an introduction that will compel the teacher to keep reading. Use real-life examples or imagined scenarios for this purpose. In the body, reveal something unexpected that impacts whoever’s reading. Summarize the essay by demonstrating you’re a worthy candidate.
Pose a Question the Reader Wants an Answer to
One of the best tips for writing a college paper is to ask rhetorical questions that elevate interest. You don’t necessarily need to pose real questions but ensure you keep the reader wondering. Make yourself unique in the eyes of those scanning your essay.
For instance, you might leave a hook about extracurricular activities that encourages the admissions officer to discover more. Be mysterious at the onset and establish a forward momentum that satisfies the urge to know you better.
Take a Risk and Reveal the “Invisible You”
The time has come to let the world see what you have accomplished so far. Use the application body to present evidence of your skills, knowledge, character, and beliefs. Don’t just share a list of your abilities and achievements.
Make the essay personalized. The power lies in your effort to give the reader insight into your human side. Go beyond a naked résumé and reveal your compassionate nature. Admit you’ve also made mistakes, but these have set you on the right path in life!
Don’t Recount – Reflect!
Retelling a fascinating holiday in India doesn’t require much input. Moreover, who can’t write in length about their big win at the summer volleyball camp? Sharing an itinerary of events is not what you aim to achieve in a common application essay.
When recalling, you need to go to the core of the experience. Explain what you’ve learned when faced with an obstacle. Describe how you’ve grown and become more resilient. Give a personal statement of your time spent at school. If you’re uncertain, check some application essay prompts available online.
It’s All in the Details
When exploring related topics in your college essay, go broad or deep. For instance, you can portray your interest in English drama by explaining your love for theaters. Mention how the drama course fortified your inclination and list your favorite playwrights.
Conversely, if you want to dive deeper into the matter, get ablaze about William Shakespeare. Explore his tragedies, love sonnets, and how they turned on stage. Share your fascination with the reader and mention a few seemingly unimportant characters that impacted tragic ends. Finally, consider bringing up your interest in drama composition.
Keep Track of the Length
College admissions essays must follow the specified word count. Assessors highly value conciseness and punctuality. Moreover, pay attention to proper punctuation and spelling. These aspects are critical if you are to set your essay apart from the competition. Correct grammar usage and a range of appropriate vocabulary are a must, too.
Bottom Line
Now, it’s your turn to shine! Follow these essay writing tips not because you’re a prospective college student but because this skill is essential for your future career. And don’t forget to have fun while writing because the admission essay is there to amuse by representing your true self.
