I thought it’d be a good idea to compile a list of tips for writing college essays – especially about the little, overlooked aspects.
So, feel free to add!
By the way, this is coming from a rising senior… so these are just tips I’ve picked up from various places and plan to use.
-Stay on topic. If you think you’re going off topic: you probably are.
-Be passionate about something. Passion in writing shows a lot.
-If sending in the mail, spend a few extra bucks and get better paper. Heavyweight, bright. It’s a little thing, but it makes you look as though you care.
-Additionally, if sending in the mail, use a laser printer so the ink doesn’t smear if one of the admissions counselors spills on it. Most likely many people are going to be reading your essay.
-Stay in perspective. First person, second person, or third person. Using all three at random is not a good idea. Also, tense is important. Use past, present, and future accordingly.
-If you have to put your name/address/email on it, put it in the header or footer to save space.
-Don’t forget the page numbers.
-If sending in the mail, use a reasonable font size. Too big and it looks like a children’s book, too little and it hurts the eyes. 11 or 12 is good.
-Best advice I’ve ever gotten: don’t be creative in apperance. Use black ink. Use Times New Roman or a font similar. No stationary. Nothing cute. No special formatting. If you are creative, let it shine through your words.
I’ll try to think of more. But for now, add on!