<p>I was wondering what people thought of the idea of submitting a supplementary writing sample. It is unfortunate, but I believe my most exemplary writing has been in disciplines outside of my major. In short, I've written a number of short papers (~5 pages) which I believe showcase my writing ability. I am finding myself ambivalent, as I believe the action straddles the borders of haughtiness and confidence. I would thus be quite interested in your reactions and thoughts regarding this proposal.</p>
<p>In answering this, please assume that my writing samples are more coherent than the nearly inscrutable mess above.</p>
<p>I've wondered this same thing. Sometimes I feel like sending a writing sample is a way of adding more work for the admissions people. To be honest, I don't think (though I could be wrong) that they'll be willing to sacrifice the time required to read through 4 or 5 pages of a paper.</p>
<p>It depends on the paper; if it is a physics report, I strongly doubt the adcom will read it him/herself, but will instead send it to the relevant department for analysis.</p>
<p>I'll be more specific. I am a philosophy major, however I believe that my most impressive writing to date has been analysises of literature. Where do you think they would send it, supposing you think they would send it somewhere?</p>
<p>I really doubt that the adcom will read ANYTHING that's send in beside what you have to send in. I am not sure about this. Feel free to prove me wrong with precedents.</p>
<p>I sent in a mini-portfolio to the schools I applied to. I write for my current schools' students newspaper and magazine, so I sent in a few of my articles. </p>
<p>I don't think essays and stuff will really help you at all...but I can't see it hurting you in any way. I say why not just send it...</p>