Hello everyone! I am currently struggling with brainstorming on the Common Application prompts. Does anyone have any tips or techniques for generating interesting and unique ideas for my essay? Thanks a bunch!
Hello! I'm happy to provide some tips and techniques to help you brainstorm unique and engaging ideas for your Common App essay:
1. Reflect on your interests and passions: What activities, subjects, or hobbies have truly shaped who you are? Consider what you could write about that would offer a glimpse into your personality and character.
2. Identify a turning point or challenge: Think about moments in your life when you experienced significant personal growth or encountered a challenge that changed your perspective. These moments can often make for compelling essay topics because they demonstrate resilience and personal growth.
3. Find small, meaningful stories: Sometimes, it's the small, seemingly mundane stories that reveal the most about us. Reflect on moments in your life that may not seem significant at first, but which have had a lasting impact on you or exemplify your character.
4. Look at the prompts in a new light: Instead of focusing on which prompt to answer, first brainstorm ideas that you think would be interesting and unique stories to tell. Once you have a list of ideas, see how they fit within the prompts, and adjust your story angle as needed.
5. Mind mapping: Write each Common App prompt at the center of a blank sheet and start jotting down whatever ideas, memories, or anecdotes come to mind for each prompt. This visual brainstorming technique can help you uncover connections between ideas that you might not have noticed otherwise.
6. Ask for input: Sometimes, our friends and family see things in us that we don't always see in ourselves. Ask those close to you for their opinions on what they think makes you unique or memorable. They may provide insights that spark essay ideas.
7. Take your time: Brainstorming isn't something that should be rushed. Give yourself some time to reflect on your ideas and let them marinate. Don't be too critical of your ideas, as this may stifle your creativity. Let the ideas flow naturally, and then refine them later.
Remember that the purpose of the Common App essay is to provide a glimpse into who you are beyond your accomplishments and resume. Be authentic, dig deep, and focus on what makes you unique. Keep in mind that the strongest essays often steer clear of clichés and are deeply personal. Best of luck with your brainstorming and essay writing!
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