<p>I've been trying to write a decent CommonApp/general essay for months. Literally. I honestly cannot articulate my thoughts ... it's becoming a serious problem, especially now since the January 1st deadline is approaching. I really have no idea what to write about. I've thought of dozens of topics but whenever I begin to write, my words get jumbled and I get nowhere. I doubt you guys can help since you obviously don't know anything about me, but I'm looking for any kind of inspiration. Please. </p>
<p>Anyone else have the same problem, and if so, how did finally get going?</p>
<p>I have serious problems with it…but I can’t even come up with topics (one school gave me 5 prompts, and still, nothing). Sometimes I just go sit somewhere and stare at the wall, so I have nothing else to distract me, and that helps a bit</p>
<p>I had that, too, even when I thought I knew what I wanted to write about. It was easier to write the UC essays because they were more specific prompts-- maybe give yourself more restrictions, then just write an essay to get it done?</p>
<p>Yea, tell me about it. Usually when I get writer’s block, I just go do something else to get my mind off things, like playing drums. It’s not like I’d do anything productive in that hour and a half anyway, besides writing my name.</p>
<p>lol I struggled for one of my essays and am still struggling, but just write anything down. Don’t worry about grammar, spelling or anything and see where it takes you.</p>
<p>And if you find yourself just sitting and not typing anything I’d try this tip given to me from another CC’er. Whenever you make progress print it. And whenever you have any amount of time even if you are at lunch or something just keep adding to it and then retype it and it will slowly build up into a complete essay</p>
<p>It’s pretty much the same generic advice, but just sit and write, anything. As it becomes more natural, you’ll probably end up writing more than you’re supposed to. From there, just trim it down or ask someone to edit it for you. It helps me brainstorm when I’m relaxing in the shower with hot water flowing =D</p>
<p>i had that problem for a while too until i decided to write down everything that came to mind, especially right before i went to bed. the calmer you are about it the better it will be. i wrote a few intro paragraphs before i decided on one to really go off of.</p>
<p>I use to have that same problem but here is what I learned to do.
Lets say the prompt is to write about your favorite video game… I wont be able to start so here what I do
I open word and I would type the following</p>
<p>Halo 2. Its entertaining. I like first person shoots. Monsters and aliens make it interesting </p>
<p>Now, what I would do is add transitions and expand a little </p>
<p>Halo 2 is a very interesting game. I find first person shooters to be very interesting. The characters make the game more interesting.</p>
<p>Then I would try to combine them and add “meat”</p>
<p>The video game Halo 2 is a very interesting first person shooter. My love for first person shooting games has made me become an avid fan of the Halo series. With characters such as aliens and monster, the game bring a sense of excitement.</p>
<p>just type your ideas( key words, ideas, words) and just add little by little</p>
<p>if youre still having problems i found that talking really helped me too. im a typer when it comes to writing and i actually hand wrote my essay so i didnt go back and delete it as i went. it prevents you from editing as you go.</p>