Avoid the Pitfalls Writing the Common Application Essay

Writing the common application essay should not be a slap-dash affair. You write your experience logically with interesting details, add somel color and you are set, but keep in mind all that you have learned about essay writing in the past and avoid those common mistakes that hundreds of others make.

All set for that college application?

You should thank your English teacher in high school for the dozens of impromptu essays they made your class to write. The experience has given you enough leverage to preparation for the most important narrative you will write in your life.

The only difference between your writing then and now you cannot afford to make a mistake. The best thing you can do at this point is to steer clear of the blunders common in this type of writing.

What to watch out for: When the question asks you about your stance on an issue, write what you think about it and why. Do not write what you think the readers want to see. Remember, there is no right answer and in the end only your ideas count, not theirs. If you are asked to talk about a person who has greatly influenced your life, then write about that person. For me personally, this is my good friend, who was the best throughout my studies college essay writer. He or she could be a family member or even your La Crosse coach. Make a character sketch and describe the person, their values and outlook on life. Most importantly, explain and illustrate the influence the person has had on your life. When the question requires you to speak about an important event in your life, tell it like it is. Use lots of action words that appeal to the senses. This makes your story more alive. What also matters here is the impact of the event on the way you now view life. Explain this away in a captivating, but concise narrative. If you consider the questions carefully you will realize that the underlying objective of your article is reveal yourself, your thoughts, and these logical application of these thoughts into writing. As well, your story will also show your maturity level and your readiness for college. Your thoughts matter the most. Avoid using too many quotations and be original because your own thoughts make for a compelling read. You don’t need to be a J.D. Salinger or a Truman Capote. Just write clearly, logically, and honestly.

If you need some help just to boost your confidence, talk to your adviser. They may have some suggestions on the areas you need to improve on. You can also go online and search for sites that offer writing workshops specifically for this kind of paper. As well, you can also browse sample articles. Take note of those that you like and find out what made them appealing. You don’t need to adhere to the style rigidly, but rather capture the feel that the story made on you. If you also find some that do not appeal to you, take note of these too. In the meantime, keep on reading. You can grasp effective writing styles along the way. Stay on top of current controversial issues so have some ideas for your common college application. When the day comes, let your stream of consciousness flow.