How strict are they with the word limit? If it says 400-500 words, does my essay really have to be under 500 words? Would it matter if it’s more like 550?
<p>I don't think it matters if you're relatively close to the word limit, but don't go overboard. </p>
<p>Someone once posted a quote by a Princeton admission officer who said something along of the lines of, "If we ask for 500 words, and you give us 1,000, we are not going to be happy that you ignored our request."</p>
<p>I'd say they won't care too much if you're over, as long as it's not too much over. However, if the limit is 500 words, and you have 550 words, I guarantee you that you can cut out 50 words without negatively affecting your essay; in fact, you will most likely find that your essay will sound better without those fifty words because you will have spent the time carefully choosing which words were useful in conveying your message.</p>
<p>Does anybody know what they think about contractions? We all know they shouldn't be used in formal writing, but if not used, word limit would increase.</p>
<p>I've heard for length 5-10% is the rule of thumb. So if they say 500 words you can go as low as 450 or as high as 550. I think that's too much leverage however. I personally believe no more than 5%. My thinking is even if it doesn't matter much, I'd rather play it safe. And 50 words is not going to impact your essay if you can cut them out</p>
<p>Ouch. My essay i 960, and it should've been 500. How can one possibly write a complete essay in 500 words?</p>
<p>you have to be concise with your wording. Don't add in details that don't add to what you're saying.</p>
<p>What about contractions?</p>