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Step 1
Don't procrastinate. Sure, your applications aren't due until next month. But the longer you wait, the less likely you are to formulate a topic that showcases your creativity, critical thinking and values. If you're short on time, you may be more likely to select a cookie-cutter topic.
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Step 2
Read through the writing prompt carefully several times. Virtually all colleges assign an essay question centered around personal growth, life events, noteworthy achievements or future goals. Make sure you understand the question fully.
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Step 3
Brainstorm an exhaustive list of topics that might answer the writing prompt. Stick to what you are interested in or passionate about, rather than what you think the admissions committee wants to hear. You may strike creative gold with a topic like "Why I Love Collecting Star Wars Figures."
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Step 4
Study your list of topics, eliminating those that do not seem substantial enough for elaboration. Essay writing is challenging enough without trying to make something out of nothing. If you're not sure about a topic, add it to a separate "maybe" list to reevaluate later.
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Step 5
Eliminate topics that you aren't passionate about. Your essay is used not only to test your intellect and your mastery of the English language, but also to give the admissions committee a taste of who you are.
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Step 6
Think outside the box. Scratch off hackneyed topics that recruiters have seen dozens of times before and select something memorable or unusual (making sure, of course, that it sufficiently addresses the question).
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Step 7
Narrow down your topic to something not expounded upon elsewhere in your application. Writing an essay gives you an opportunity to define yourself outside of your GPA and test scores.
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Step 8
Eliminate topics on your list that are likely to ruffle feathers. Essays about religion, politics and social controversy are best avoided unless you relate the topic directly to you and your personal development. Don't make broad-based judgments, and if you're worried that a topic might evoke negative feelings, scratch it.
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Step 9
Outline your essay before you begin writing. This is your final opportunity to make sure that your topic and your approach will answer the posed question while revealing more about your character and educational goals than you expressed in other areas of your application.
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Step 10
Ask a trusted English teacher or guidance counselor to review your essay once it is complete. If the teacher is unable to help at this time, thank her anyway and seek help elsewhere.
