In a sense, the advice covered in this section is remedial. We are trying to teach you to avoid the common mistakes of bad writing that even smart people can make. The goal is to achieve a clean, readable, and enjoyable piece of writing. Very few writers in the entire applicant pool will have the kind of style that will make them stand out on the strength of writing alone.
Developing such a style requires time and investment, and some may argue that it cannot be taught. If you want to undertake a more long-term investment in your writing aptitude, here are some tips:
1. Immerse yourself in good writing. Read publications such as The New Yorker and Atlantic Monthly. Even without conscious effort, your writing will improve because you will begin to think in more vivid language.
2. Imitate good writers. Try a broad range of styles, from Faulkner to Hemingway. This will get you thinking about writing on a higher level and prepare you to forge your own voice as you begin to master the nuances of language.
3. Keep a journal. No matter what you choose to write about, your writing will improve simply because you are practicing the craft. Keep to a steady schedule.
4. Become a good editor. Whether you are rewriting your own piece or someone else’s, the process of editing will help you learn to pay attention to subtleties while keeping an eye on the big picture.
5. Have your work critiqued by professionals. Using a service such as EssayEdge will not only help you improve the essay you submit, but also teach you to recognize your general strengths and weaknesses as a writer.
Introduction