Stressing over the perfect hook for your essay? Not sure how to finish the last line? I can't help with specifics, but here are some tips to help you triumph over the most difficult ordeal known to seniors.
1. Take frequent breaks.
Getting up every five minutes may be a little extreme, but nothing helps the mind more than a short amount of free time.
2. Give the piece time to settle.
If you wait until the night before your application is due to write your essays and short answers, your thoughts could be less coherent than you think. Write your pieces at least a week or two in advance and let a few days pass before you return for editing and proofreading.
3. Know what you want to say.
Most questions on an application limit your responses. Plan ahead and know what points you want to highlight—avoid rambling. Admissions officers are tired and will not take kindly to pointless or redundant paragraphs.
4. Don’t be afraid to brag.
Applications are your chance to show off—don’t be afraid to use it! Don’t be overly cocky, but understand the beauty of a subtle reference to one of your major accomplishments.
5. Write from the heart.
This phrase sounds very cheesy (avoid that in applications, by the way) but it’s meaning is true. Don’t purposely try to write tales you think will impress the admissions officers—most likely you won’t sound genuine. Write to succeed, but write with your personal style. Chances are, admissions officers will admire your true character rather than a forced one.
Good tips, Aly! I battled mine forever, but finally finished about a week ago. Yay! =)