How to Write Great Essays

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Exit and college admissions essays should never be written at the last minute. It takes time
to decide on a topic (if you are given a choice); choose an approach; organize your thoughts;
write a rough draft; revise, edit, and proofread; and complete a final draft. The more time
you spend on your essay, the greater your chances of success, especially if you do not con-
sider yourself a strong writer.
Many schools begin the exit essay process in September. This is also the recommended
month to start college admissions essays. Make an appointment on your calendar each week
for work on your essay. You might spend the first few sessions exploring the topics, if you
have a choice. Read the section in this chapter that explains what the topics require and how
best to approach them. Then, move into prewriting, using one or more of the strategies
explained in Chapter 1. Once you know what you want to write about, you can begin a rough
draft.
By the beginning of November, college admissions essays should be ready for revising,
editing, and proofreading. Exit essays are due at different times, but schedule at least a few
weeks to work on your rough draft. Use Chapter 5 as a guide for these processes. When you
finish proofreading, complete your final draft and prepare it for submission at least a few
days before it is due. Long-term planning helps you finish on time, takes some of the stress
out of the writing process, and improves your chances of getting a high score.