On the apps, many of them require short answers. How long should they be? Judging by the space given, Im thinking about a paragraph right?
How should one approach these questions? Do we need to really be creative or can a cliche answer be given? For example [History is my favorite subject because if we dont learn from the mistakes of the past, we are bound to repeat it]. You know, one of those answers.
<p>The short answer questions I answered on my application were about 5-7 sentences long. So I'd say a paragraph is about right.
However, I don't know about cliche. You want to stand out. If you're going to use a cliche answer, at least make it your own in some way. The admissions officers are trying to get to know YOU.
That's just my opinion.</p>
<p>i know its a must to avoid cliche in the main essay but the 5-7 sentence long answers it so hard to develop any sort of creativity in it.</p>
<p>Example: "Why do you love harvard"
"I love harvard for its academic environment where one can strive to be the best that he or she can be. It is open, caring, friendly" </p>
<p>You get what i mean? Practically everyone will say the same thing. Anyone have any more tips?</p>
<p>It depends.... what college and what are the questions?</p>
<p>most colleges want a short answer about 100 to 150 words.</p>
<p>i want to know how to approach the academic award quesion, as well as the most meaningful activity quesion.
I know i need to show who i am, but i dont know how i can do that in the academic quesion("briefly list or describe any scholastic distinctions or honors you have won." from Common App) in common app, a word limit is 100.</p>
<p>PS . btw if anyone can post an example or something, it would be cool.</p>
<p>How would one approach a question like this ," tell us why you want to study at this particular college," (or something like that) and keet it under 200 words?</p>
<p>The short answer questions for the online application only allows for 5 lines or around 75 words MAX! I find this to be a little ridiculous. It says that should you need more space, please use the additional information page.</p>
<p>What do you guys think about this? Is it then a good idea to just fill up the box? I feel like 5 lines can barely fit 4 sentences! My ideal would be 7-10 sentences. </p>
<p>Should i just cut it down down down or add 3-4 sentences onto the additional informations page? Wouldnt those extra 3-4 sentences from each short answer question look weird together?</p>
<p>thanks</p>
<p>I'm having the same problem - the shortest I can make my meaningful activity essay is ~350 words. I don't get how they expect us to elucidate the effect it had on us in only 100-150 words...it just can't happen!!!</p>
<p>It sould fit in the space they provide, and contain ZERO cliches.</p>