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Is it acceptable to use contractions in a college essay?

Hi everyone, I'm a bit stressed about my college essay and I was wondering if using contractions (like 'I'm', 'didn't', etc.) is okay? I want my essay to sound casual and conversational, but I don't want it to seem unprofessional. Thoughts?

11 months ago

Hi there! I understand your concerns about using contractions in your college essay. It's great that you're thinking about the tone of your essay and how it might come across to the admissions officers.

Using contractions can help make your essay sound more casual and conversational, which can be a good thing if that's the tone you're going for. However, it's important not to overuse them, as it could make your essay seem too informal. The key is to strike a balance between casual and professional.

Remember, the main goal of your college essay is to showcase your personality and give the admissions officers a glimpse into who you are. If using contractions will help you achieve that, then go for it! Just be mindful of your overall tone and make sure it's consistent throughout your essay. Good luck!

11 months ago

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