<p>Here’s my non-expert suggestion - assuming you’re not a recruitable athlete - in which case see @sherpa’s post above.</p>
<p>Write your entire application now, then set it aside for a week or so. Then, try to read it quickly and objectively and then - out loud - briefly summarize yourself based on what you just read. That’s likely what an admissions officer will do. He or she will (or will not) be pitching you to the committee in under a few minutes or so. In those few minutes what would you like that officer to say about you? </p>
<p>If your application is a hodge-podge it’s difficult for the officer to summarize and pitch you. I think it better send a clean, clear and concise message of who you are and what you will bring to the campus.</p>