Essay Brainstorming

What are some tips for brainstorming essay topics for the common app?

@bluegreen7
Don’t overthink the topic: the handling of the topic is more important than the topic. Write a whole bunch of essays on a variety of topics trivial and major. Use and then refine the ones you think turn out best.

@TheSATTeacher Yup, I just overthink and self-criticize too much on my personal writing. But I will keep trying!

Our family talked about possible topics. I think it helps to look at some essay prompts and just start writing. See what speaks to you. Read the first chapter if Anne LaMott’s book Bird by Bird where she talks about sh***y first drafts. Just write.