<p>I know that college essays are super-important; proper grammar, spelling, etc. are all basics. Here's my situation and pressing question: I'm writing an essay where I feel like contractions (ie, "it's," "there's") would allow the essay to flow better and appear more natural. Is it okay to use contractions, or are they a huge no-no?</p>
<p>I understand this might not seem like a big deal, but I love writing and I'd like to follow convention if there are any.</p>