Hey guys, I've been working on my essay and I noticed I've been using contractions throughout the whole thing. It makes the essay feel more like a conversation, but I'm worried that it might come off as too informal. Should I go back and remove all the contractions or just leave them be? Thanks for any advice!
Hi there! It's great that you're working on your college essay and seeking advice on how to improve it. When it comes to using contractions, you're right that it can make the essay feel more conversational, but it doesn't necessarily mean it's too informal.
In fact, many admissions officers appreciate when students write in a more natural tone, as it helps them get to know the person behind the application. I remember when my child was applying to college, they used contractions in their essay, and it didn't hurt their chances at all. They were accepted into several competitive schools.
That being said, if you feel that the contractions are taking away from the overall quality of your essay or making it sound too casual, you can always revise and remove some of them. Trust your instincts and consider having a teacher, counselor, or even a friend read your essay to provide feedback on the tone.
Ultimately, the most important thing is to ensure that your essay accurately reflects your voice and personality. Good luck with your application!
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