Writing Basics: How to Write a College Admissions Essay

Edits That Work
Oct 30
2 min read

Updated: Nov 9

Focused student, in a cozy setting, diligently going through the basic writing steps while working on a college admissions essay.

Writing a college admissions essay should be fun and it's your chance to demonstrate how you will be an asset to the college. Our writing tips make it easier to write a memorable essay from the various prompts on Common App. These prompts are used by colleges and universities across the U.S. as part of their college application process so it's important that your admission essay doesn't blend in with the rest of them.

We make writing your college essay easy!

Tip #1 - Choose a topic

Select the three easiest prompts to answer. If none of the prompts seem easy, pick any two at random.

Tip #2 - Brainstorm

Brainstorming or brain dumping is the processes of writing down everything that comes to mind about a paticular subject. Don't think during this process, just write. When you run out of things to write about move on to the next prompt.

Now that you've gotten all your thoughts and ideas flowing, the fun beginss. Review your brainstorms. Find one that you feel is strongest (ex. easier topic to write about, the fullest page, the one you find most intereseting). Remember there are no bad choices, some just might be easier than others.

"“Remember this when you’re struggling for a big idea. You’re much better off scratching for a small one.” -Twyla Tharp

Tip #3 - Organize Ideas

The easist was to organize ideas is to group them into similar categories. Think of each category as its own topic. These categories will be used to arrange your essay into main paragraphs with supporting details. You can keep your ideas listed under categories or you can put that information into an outline.

Tip #4 - Start Writing

Instead of thinking about what you will write, just start writing. Make sure to group your information into paragraphs and referred back to the information on your brainstorm. Remember this is just the rough draft so it doesn't have to be perfect. Instead focus on getting your thoughts on paper in one sitting.

Tip #5 - Review

The hard part is over. All that's left now is reviewing, editing and submitting your college admissions essay. You are one step closer to making your dreams a reality.