Should I stick to the prompt?

Prep School Admissions
1

<p>Is it better to write an essay that solidly answers the prompt, but is very conventional (for example, an essay on Why I Like to Rollerskate), or write an essay that doesn't fit the prompt very well but is unique and heartfelt? </p>

<p>I have an essay that I wrote for Exeter's prompt "describe a moment when you felt challenged, successful, or overwhelmed, and how you handled it", and it was very personal (I might not even share it with my parents) but it doesn't really stick to the prompt; it's more about a psychological journey over time than a single moment. Plus I don't have much to write on how I handled it... Should I submit this essay or write one for prompt #4 on astronomy or gymnastics or something? I worked on this essay for like a week but I can't seem to get it to fit the prompt.</p>

<p>Also, it's like 8-10 words over the 400 word limit. Does that matter? XD</p>

2

<p>Yeah, I am having the same problem with my SPS essay. I’d be interested in an answer.</p>

3

<p>don’t do the one you wrote. the reader will most likely feel slightly uncomfortable or bored.</p>

4

<p>I’m an English teacher, not an AO, but my perspective is that it’s best to stay within the prompt, but it’s great to take a prompt beyond its conventional limits. So you might acknowledge the prompts in your intro, but say something about how it’s not one but a series of moments being most significant to you, then move into your story. </p>

<p>On the other hand, it’s always better to be specific than to get too philosophical and abstract–so if your essay doesn’t have any “moments” in it at all, I’d suggest focusing on something more concrete.</p>

<p>And 8-10 words don’t matter, BUT I’ve never seen an essay that didn’t have 8-10 words that couldn’t be cut.</p>

5

<p>Heps - I’d suggest you find an adult to share the essay with. Doesn’t have to be a parent. I think you could use an objective appraisal of what you’ve written. It might be just fine . . . or it might not be, but it will probably take someone more objective than you to make that assessment.</p>

<p>For what it’s worth, I’m a good writer - but I still find myself occasionally getting so overly invested in what I’m writing that I lose all perspective . . and it takes someone else to point out to me where I’ve gone astray. So, find someone you trust and ask them to take a look.</p>

6

<p>@heps1996,
My first Exeter essay I wrote (how has your neighborhood shaped you?) I didn’t answer the question. So, I would be wary of going outside the prompt.</p>

7

<p>SnapePotter, did you just imply that my life story is boring?</p>

<p>Hmm, I think I’m going to just re-write the essay using the same idea, but make it more prompt-specific .</p>

8

<p>Okay, I’ve rewritten it… And it has 433 words. But I can’t seem to find anything to cut D:</p>

9

<p>@heps1996,
I cut one of my essays from 600 words to 400 words without a full on rewrite. If you spend enough time editing, you can condense almost anything. And 33 words is not that much. Just take out two sentences and you’ll be under the limit.</p>

10

<p>I find myself facing a similar problem.</p>

<p>I’m worried about writing an essay that is not concrete enough.</p>

<p>For Exeter, I’m thinking of writing one more abstract/philosophical/sensory image essay and another that is more concrete. I’m not sure though.</p>

11

<p>OP-I am NOT attacking You, but if You are writing an Essay to Exeter and do want wish to share it with You parents, it’s a bit strange, and think about how an AO would feel while reading it. Make a unique, worthwhile essay, but do not be vague, and stay within the prompt. Best of luck!</p>