Read the instruction Each college offers guidelines for what they expect in an essay. Some colleges want to learn about you. Some want you to write about why you’re right for their college. Some give you a topic you have to write about. Others don’t give a lot of direction.
Pick a good topic College admissions officers learn about who you are in part from your topic choice – so pick something that reflects your interests and your values.
Write in your own style Your writing style will also say something to the admissions staff. Are you funny, analytical, freewheeling, methodical? Your approach to your topic, your tone and the way you organize material will all communicate something about you.
Get writing If you’re stumped and can’t seem to get anything onto the page, try to finish this sentence: Free-associate or brainstorm with a friend about ideas. If this fails, try calling a friend on the phone.
Spit out a draft already There are several ways to organize your essay. You can tell a story from beginning to end, chronologically. You can write about a single idea or facet of your personality or life. Try to offer specific details rather than generalities.
Feedback and editing Don’t churn out a first draft, pat yourself on the back, and call it done. Get several people you trust to read your essay and make suggestions. Proof repeatedly for typos. Buff and polish until it’s the best essay you can possibly write.