Can I use contractions in my college essay?

In general, using contractions like 'I'm' and 'they're' is usually acceptable in your essay. College essays are meant to showcase your personality and unique voice, so it's important for your writing to sound natural and genuine.

Is it appropriate to use contractions in a college essay?

Contractions and Informal Language

You may have heard that contractions are a no-no in formal writing, but we beg to differ. The whole point of the personal statement is for you to speak to admissions in your own voice. We say, use contractions where they feel natural. If you'd rather say “I'm” than “I am,” go for it.

Is it okay to use contractions in an essay?

It's acceptable to use contractions for informal writing, such as a newspaper article, but less so in formal writing, such as an essay for a college course. Traditionally, use of contractions has been strictly forbidden in academic writing. You might remember a teacher at some point who told you never to use them.

Are contractions OK in UC essays?

And, you have these tired admissions officers reading your UC essays — you definitely don't want to make their jobs more difficult and boring. That's why informal voice is important. Now, don't be casual to the point of sounding sloppy, but contractions are ok to use.

What shouldn't you write about in a college essay?

While drug addiction, alcohol use, arrests, jail stints, and similar activities may seem intriguing, they are usually college essay topics to avoid. There is a chance the admissions committee won't view those actions favorably, regardless of the lessons they learned along the way.

Is it OK to use contractions in college essays?

Is it OK to write a sad college essay?

While there's no definitive answer to whether or not sad college essays will work for every student, it's important to focus on presenting a well-written, genuine, and impactful story. If your "sad" topic is truly significant to your life and has shaped your character or values, then it might be a strong choice.

How do you not write a boring college essay?

Show Don't Tell

As you expand on whatever theme you've decided to explore in your essay, remember to show, don't tell. The most engaging writing “shows” by setting scenes and providing anecdotes, rather than just providing a list of accomplishments and activities. Reciting a list of activities is also boring.

How long should a college essay be?

If your institution doesn't provide a specific word count, it's best to keep your essay between the length established by the longer college admissions essay format: 250 to 650 words. Word count is just one factor to consider as you craft your college admissions essay.

Are sentence fragments okay in college essays?

You might actually want to use a sentence fragment in your essay. A sentence fragment is short, so it's like putting an exclamation mark on an idea. Think about using one when you want to emphasize a point.

Is it unprofessional to use contractions?

While people use contractions every day, it's best not to use them in formal writing. That includes academic papers, research reports, and formal business writing.

When should contractions not be used?

Professors, employers, and other professionals like to see that you have taken your time on a document, and using contractions is sometimes seen as a shortcut. To be safe, never use contractions when writing for a class or when writing a professional document, such as a personal statement or cover letter.

Are contractions fine in formal English?

Contractions are usually not appropriate in formal writing.

How formal should college essays be?

A college application essay is less formal than most academic writing. Instead of citing sources formally with in-text citations and a reference list, you can cite them informally in your text.

How important is grammar in college essay?

It's great that you're working on your college essay. When it comes to grammar and punctuation, it's important to strike a balance. While colleges understand that students aren't perfect, it's still crucial to show that you've put effort into your writing and can communicate effectively.

Is Grammarly good for college essays?

Grammarly's writing suggestions flag when your sentences might not be as clear, help identify stronger word choice and detect when your tone is inconsistent so that your writing appears as polished as possible. Grammarly helps you write confidently and from the heart so you can wow every college admissions committee.

Is it OK to use first person in a college essay?

Not only is it fine to make “I” statements in your application essays, but colleges expect your essays to sound like you, too!

Can an essay be 4 paragraphs in college?

The number of paragraphs in a college essay can indeed vary depending on the specific essay. However, it's important to focus on clearly communicating your thoughts and experiences in a well-organized manner rather than stressing over the exact number of paragraphs.

Can a college essay make or break you?

If you are a “borderline” candidate, with good but less-competitive grades and test scores, a strong essay could push you into the admitted pool. However, your essay is unlikely to compensate for grades and test scores that are too far below average, since academics are the primary basis of evaluation.

Is a 300 word college essay good?

How many words should a college essay be? Personal statements are generally 500-650 words. For example, the Common Application, which can be used to apply to more than 800 colleges, requires an essay ranging from 250-650 words.

How do you start off a college essay?

Start with an attention grabber. The very first sentence of your essay should be the “hook” or “grabber.” This sentence “hooks” readers or “grabs” their attention, making them want to read more. This first sentence should provide rich details, engage a reader's curiosity, or otherwise stand out from the rest.

Is 400 words good for a college essay?

Most college application portals specify a word count range for your essay, and you should stay within 10% of the upper limit. If no word count is specified, we advise keeping your essay between 400 and 600 words. You should aim to stay under the specified limit to show you can follow directions and write concisely.

How do you write a killer essay?

Is name dropping bad in college essays?

It will only significantly increase the likelihood of rejection. Name dropping in college essays is one of the items on our checklist of things that will make rejection exceedingly likely. People don't like braggarts. People don't like people who are trying so hard to impress.

What makes a poorly written essay?

A too-broad thesis statement. A poorly formulated thesis. Inadequate or unfocused topic sentences. Writing off-subject.

Can I trauma dump in a college essay?

However, students should consider avoiding including traumas in their essays because traumatic moments don't always demonstrate the best aspects of one's personality. “If I was applying to college or any other part of my life, I would not want to feel obligated to be judged on my worst moments,” Henderson said.