<p>Is it okay to write about a bad report card grade on my application essay? If I do this, should I explain the reason behind the bad grade? what I learned from it? both?</p>
<p>(The bad grade was in a subject that is very important in the field I'm going into.)</p>
<p>If it worries you ask your guidance counselor to talk about it briefly in her recommendation but generally I advise against discussing your bad grade in your college essay, you’re using up valuable words you need to tell about your personality, what you do in your spare time, your passions etc.</p>
<p>I disagree; since the admissions officers will see that bad grade, it might do well to mention it. However, do not dwell on the grade or make excuses; write about what you learned from that, how you improved, or if an outside aspect did in fact legitimately factor into the low grade (death of a friend/family member, etc). However, never dwell on it! Always what you learned & how you are now. It shows you can get through anything.</p>