Activity

1. Get started by brainstorming

Starting the essay can be the hardest part. Brainstorming about your personality traits and defining your strengths is a good place to begin.

2. Let your first draft flow

After you’ve gathered your notes, create an outline to organize your essay and decide where you want examples to appear.

3. Develop three essay parts

Introduction: One paragraph that introduces your essay.
Body: Several paragraphs explaining the main idea with examples.
Conclusion: One paragraph that summarizes and ends the essay.

4. Be specific

Give your essay focus by figuring out how the question relates to your personal qualities and then taking a specific angle.

5. Find a creative angle

Katherine, a college freshman, had to describe why she would make a good Reed College student for that school’s essay.

6. Be honest

The essay question might ask you about your best quality, an experience that shaped you or the reason you want to attend a certain college

7. Get feedback

Show your draft to family, friends or teachers. Ask if it makes sense and sounds like you.

8. Proofread and make corrections

Read your essay over carefully to check for typos and spelling and grammar errors. It’s best to ask someone who hasn’t seen it yet to take a look as well. They’re likely to see mistakes you won’t catch.