<p>What is the generally accepted length for the main essay in the application? I'm at 1,000 words, and it is proving exceedingly difficult to shorten it. I could probably get it down to 850, but I don't want to compromise the quality.</p>
<p>Mine is pretty long as well - 986 words. I’ve shaved it down from 1,2040 already, and it’s pretty much a skeleton now. But hey, I don’t want to bore anyone.
I think a good rule of thumb for length is if it’s boring, it’s too long. If you keep things interesting you’ll be fine with 1,000 words.</p>
<p>Most schools request the essays be 1-2 pages, some request a maximum of 500 words. Chances are that your essay can be further compressed to 750 or 800 words. </p>
<p>Just put yourself in the shoes of the adcoms that have to read thousands and thousands of these, + 2 letters of recommendation per student.</p>
<p>I chopped mine down originally from 1370, but its nowhere near a skeleton at the moment. I could probably get it down to around 800 if I really tried, so I think that is what I will aim for.</p>
<p>My essay started out at 956 words, and I swore I couldn’t cut it down. Thanks to some great editors here on CC, I got it down to 850, but swore I could go no lower. This was a month ago. Earlier this week, I got the essay to 689 words, and thought that was the perfect length. However, five minutes ago I found a way to cut the essay to 499 words, and it’s much better than it started out… more concise and precise, still carrying the message it started with but now more effectively.</p>
<p>I would consider seriously looking at the essay. Think about what you’re trying to say and whether each piece of the essay says it. One paragraph might sound great and be very well written, but maybe it doesn’t contribute to the overall message. </p>
<p>If you really can’t cut it down to under 850 words, you’ll probably be ok, but do your best to stay under that limit. The general length should be between 500 and 750 words.</p>
<p>I am. I know it needs to get shorter. Its just that everything seems relevant to the message as of now.</p>
<p>Mines just over 500 words.</p>
<p>I’ve decided 900 is where I will aim for. I know its a bit longer than suggested, but as long as its well written and engaging, I hope the length shouldn’t be an issue.</p>
<p>I am pretty sure that 1000 is kinda like a good max to hit. Anywhere in the 900s is good if you truly arent being repetitive and need the extra words to get out what you want to say. All the flowery language can be annoying, so try and get your point out with all the extra verbal baggage</p>
<p>Okay, sounds good. I’m certain my essay is not repetitive in any manner. I’ll read over it to simplify sentences, naturally.</p>