Writing a great Common App essay is a critical component of your college application process. It’s your opportunity to showcase your personality, life experiences, and the qualities that make you unique. A great essay can improve your application, helping you stand out from other applicants. This guide will walk you through every step of writing a memorable Common App essay.
What is the Common App essay and why is it important?
The Common App essay is one of the most important parts of your college application. It’s an essay that gives you a chance to tell admissions officers that you’re much more than just grades and test scores.
Why is it different?
- Shows personality: The essay provides a glimpse into your character, allowing admissions officers to see who you are as a person.
- Reveals values: It’s a way to showcase your personal growth, interests, and values.
- Helps you stand out: A well-crafted essay can set you apart from thousands of other applicants with similar academic profiles.
In short, your Common App essay helps colleges understand who you are, making it a crucial element of your application.
Key Features of a Stellar Common App Essay
To write a stellar Common App essay that enchants the reader, here are the key features you need to focus on:
How to choose the right prompt for your Common App essay
The Common App offers seven different essay prompts, each of which allows you to showcase a different aspect of your personality. Choosing the right prompt is crucial to writing a compelling essay.
Here are some tips to help you choose the best prompt:
- Reflect on your personal experiences: Think about moments that have had a lasting impact on your life. Do these relate to a prompt?
- Match the prompt to your strengths: Some prompts are better suited to showcasing your strengths. For example, if you overcame a significant challenge, the prompt “overcoming obstacles” might be very appropriate.
- Avoid overused topics: Avoid writing about very common topics like “winning the big game” or “going on a mission trip.” Find a unique angle to make your story stand out.
Brainstorm ideas for your Common App essay
Brainstorming is one of the most important steps when writing your Common App essay. Here’s how you can get started:
- Start by reflecting on your life: Take a look at important moments that shaped who you are today. This might include a challenge you overcame, a relationship that influenced you, or a passion that inspired you.
- Identify themes: Once you have a list of ideas, look for common themes. What experiences have had the most profound impact on your life?
- Ask yourself key questions:
- What have I learned from this experience?
- How has it shaped who I am today?
- How does this experience connect to my future goals?
- Keep it personal: Focus on experiences that are extremely personal to you and reflect your value and growth.
Writing Your Common App Essay: A Step-by-Step Process
Once you’ve chosen your prompt and brainstormed ideas, it’s time to start writing. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Start with a Catchy Hook
Start your essay with a catchy hook. This could be an anecdote, a question, or a quote that immediately grabs the reader’s attention.
Step 2: Develop the Story
The main body of your essay should be detailed in your hook, detailing the experience and its significance. Be sure to highlight the challenges you faced and the lessons you learned. Use specific examples and vivid language to bring the story to life.
Step 3: Show, Don’t Tell
Instead of saying you’re “determined” or “hard-working,” illustrate these qualities with concrete examples. Show the reader how you demonstrate these qualities through your actions.
Step 4: Reflect on the Experience
Conclude your essay by reflecting on how the experience shaped you and how it will impact your future. This could be in the context of your academic interests, career aspirations, or personal development.
Common App Essay Structure and Format
While the content of your essay is the most important aspect, the structure plays a vital role in making it readable and engaging.
Here is the basic structure for a Common App essay:
Introduction: Set the stage for your story. Draw the reader in with a compelling opening.
Body: The body should describe your experience in detail. Focus on a central theme or event and use specific examples to illustrate your points.
Conclusion: End with a strong conclusion that reflects on the experience and its impact on your future.
Formatting Tips:
- Keep your essay between 250 and 650 words.
- Avoid very long paragraphs.
- Use transitions to ensure a smooth flow between ideas.
Do:
- Be authentic and personal in your writing.
- Focus on one story or experience.
- Use clear, concise language.
- Revise frequently for clarity and impact.
Don’t:
- Avoid clichés or overused topics.
- Don’t write a “resume” essay. This essay is not about listing accomplishments, but about demonstrating personal growth.
- Avoid complex language that doesn’t feel natural.
How to Revise and Edit Your Common App Essay to Perfection
Revising is an important part of the writing process. Once you’ve written your first draft, it’s time to refine your work.
- Take a Break: After you’ve written your essay, take a break. Coming back with a fresh perspective will help you identify areas that need improvement.
- Review the Structure and Flow: Make sure your essay has a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. Each paragraph should lead logically into the next paragraph.
- Check for clarity: Remove any jargon or unnecessary details that distract from your main message.
- Proofread for grammar and punctuation: Make sure your essay is free of spelling and grammatical errors.
- Get feedback: Have a trusted teacher, friend, or advisor review your essay for feedback.
Internal Links
- For more help choosing the best Common App essay prompt, check out our related post.
- If you’re looking for additional college application tips, be sure to read our comprehensive guide.
- Need to improve your writing? Learn how to write a personal statement that complements your Common App essay.
External Links
- For more information about the Common App and deadlines, visit the official Common App website.
- Explore college application resources on the College Board and at the College Board.
Final Thoughts: Creating Effective Shared App Essays
Writing a stellar Shared App essay takes time, effort, and reflection, but it’s worth it. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can create an essay that authentically showcases who you are. Whether you’re sharing a personal challenge, a passion, or a moment of growth, be sure to stay true to yourself. After all, this essay should be about you, and it should reflect you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long should my Common App essay be?
Your essay should be between 250 and 650 words. Aim to stay within this word count limit.
2. Can I write about controversial topics?
While it’s okay to write about sensitive topics, make sure your essay is respectful and focuses on personal development, rather than arguing a point of view.
3. How many revisions should I make?
Your essay needs a lot of revision. Aim for at least three rounds of edits to improve clarity, structure, and impact.
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