<p>I know this has been asked many times, but is 551 words too much for the Common App essay? The essay is 3/4 of a page, single spaced. I revised and edited it down from 907 and feel like any other edits would take away from the flow and purpose of the essay. I'll send it to anyone willing to help me out. Thanks!</p>
<p>Part of being a good writer is being a good editor. Take a day and then write your essay from memory. Chances are you will remember the most important parts, the heart of the essay, and it will be shorter. The tone and meaning will be the same while eliminating unnecessary extras. </p>
<p>There’s a big difference in the size you’re talking about. I believe my son went 10-15 words over. Make sure you print the page to see what actually shows up. If your essay is truncated this is what the schools will see. Better to cut it down then submit something that can not be read in its entirety.</p>
<p>I agree with blueiguana that you should cut down your essay to 500 words. I’ve assisted students on college essays and in most cases the essays are more clear and concise without unnecessary words and ideas. Less is more: DELETE.</p>
<p>Also, read the following article on length of essay…
[Can</a> Your Common Application Essay Be More than 500 Words?](<a href=“http://collegeapps.about.com/b/2012/07/23/can-your-common-application-essay-be-more-than-500-words.htm]Can”>http://collegeapps.about.com/b/2012/07/23/can-your-common-application-essay-be-more-than-500-words.htm)</p>