Avoid the Pitfalls Writing the Common Application Essay

Writing the common application essay should not be a slap-dash affair.  You write your experience logically in interesting details.  Add a dash of local color and you are set, but do not make those common mistakes hundreds of others made.

All set for that college application?
You should thank your English teacher in high school for the dozens of impromptu essays she required your class to write.  The experience has given you enough leverage to prepare for the most important narrative of your life.

The only difference between your writing then and now – you cannot afford to make a mistake.  The best thing you can do at this point is to avoid the blunders common in this type of writing.

What to watch out for:

• When the question asks you about your stance on an issue, write what you think about it and why. Do not go to the extent of writing what you think the readers would want to read.  Your idea counts, not theirs


• If you are asked to tell about a person who has greatly influenced your life, then write about that person.  He or she could be a family member or your La Crosse coach.  Make a character sketch. Describe the person, his values and outlook.  Explain and illustrate the significance of the influence the person in your life.


• When the question requires you to tell about an important event in your life, tell it like it is. Use action words and appeal to their senses. This makes your story alive.  What matters here is also the impact of the event on the way you now look at life. Explain this away in captivating but concise  narrative.


• If you review the questions you will notice that the underlying objective of your article is reveal yourself, your thoughts, and these logical application of these thoughts into writing.  Your story will also show your maturity level and your readiness for college.Your thoughts count.


• Avoid using too many quotations. Be original because your own thoughts make for a compelling read.  You need not be a J.D. Salinger or a Truman Capote.  Just write clearly, logically, and honestly.

If you need some help just to bolster your confidence, talk to your adviser. She may have suggestions on the areas you need to improve on.  You can also go online and search for sites that offer writing workshops specifically for this kind of preparation.
You can also browse sample articles. Take note of those that you like and find out what made them tick.  You need not stick to the style rigidly but just get the feel of the effect of the story on you.  If there are those that do not appeal to you, take note of these too.
In the meantime, keep on reading.  You can grasp effective writing styles along the way.  Read up on controversial issues to shore up your ammunition for your common college application. When the day comes, let your stream of consciousness flow.