Want to learn how to write an essay according to a set word count? Read on to know how.
Why a short and simple application essay is more effective
Most schools instruct applicants to write an essay that is a certain number of words long. The most common is 500 words or roughly one page. Most schools are pretty strict about the length of the application essays they want to receive. This is because they usually receive hundreds of application essays and it is not practical to read through several pages from just one applicant. This is also one way for them to sift through the good and the bad candidates. If your essay has more than the indicated word count, this usually goes straight to the trash pile. Keeping your essay short also lets the admissions officer know that you know how to get to the point. Often, most applicants think that making their application essays long will get the attention of the admissions panel, but this often backfires because it is so easy to get bored by long admission essays.
Tips to keep your admission essays short but effective
The best tip would be to go straight to the point with simple words. Avoid flowery words that will most likely get you nowhere. Also avoid jargon in your application essay. While you can expect to be inundated with medical jargon the moment you enter medical school, your application is not the best time to start using them. The worst case scenario would be that you will appear too presumptuous and full of yourself, and this can easily turn off anyone. Getting straight to the point and using the words you are most comfortable using is the best way to express your thoughts and personality on paper. Using an outline will help you stick to the important parts so you do not exceed the required words. An outline will give you an idea which topics to keep short and which topics to explain more.
Related questions:
1. How long should my application essay be?
2. Should I stick to the word count or is it acceptable to write an essay that is a few words less or more than what is required?
3. How long should my essay be if no word count is indicated?
