Hey, I was just wondering, are we allowed to use contractions in the essays? If I don’t, it just doesn’t really sound RIGHT and doesn’t fit with the content. and it doesn’t really sound like ME. but if i do use contractions, I’m afraid they’ll take one look at it and be like, “this girl can’t write” or something and proceed to toss my application. your input would be greatly appreciated. thx.
<p>what's wrong with using contractions?</p>
<p>Adcoms don't have enough time to read your essay and notice things like contractions unless its every other word. I wouldn't worry.</p>
<p>it's formal not to use contractions.</p>
<p>I'd say you're between looking professional (not using contractions) and having a more accurate voice (using contractions). Only the powers that be can say what adcoms are looking for, so your guess is as good as the rest of ours.</p>
<p>I think it depends on the tone of the essay. If you are writing in a conversational style, it would sound stilted NOT to use contractions. If your style is more formal, don't use them. It could even vary from one essay to another.</p>
<p>(when I first saw the title of this thread, I was thinking "childbirth"???!!! Maybe I should go back to my cage on the parents' forum)</p>
<p>I would say avoid them as a general rule, but it's ok to have a couple. For instance, I ended one of my essays like this:</p>
<p>"I can't wait." I don't think that's too bad. It would sound weird for me to change that...</p>
<p>"I am excited" or somthing like that, it just didn't really fit the tone</p>
<p>but in general, avoid.</p>
<p>lol texas, I thought the same thing.</p>
<p>i think they're okay because it's not some analytical essay, it gives you "voice" in your essay</p>
<p>True, but don't overdo it. They want your voice, but they also want to see you can write well.</p>