FAQ on Writing a College Application Essay: Your Ultimate Guide
Writing a college or university application essay can be a tough part of the application process.
It’s your opportunity to showcase who you are beyond grades and test scores.
To help clear up any confusion, I’m answering the most common questions students have asked me over the years about writing their college and university application essays.
1. What is the purpose of a college application essay?
The college application essay is your chance to tell admissions committees more about you. It allows you to go beyond your grades, extracurricular activities, and test scores. Through the essay, you can highlight your personality, values, and experiences in a way that shows why you’re a good fit for the college or university. It’s your opportunity to make your application stand out.
2. How do I choose a topic for my essay?
Choosing a topic can feel overwhelming, but remember, the best topics are often those that are personal and meaningful to you. Think about moments that have shaped you, challenges you’ve overcome, or experiences that demonstrate your values or aspirations. Try to avoid overly common topics like “winning an award” or “the time I helped someone,” unless you can provide a fresh perspective.
Some useful brainstorming strategies include:
Reflecting on key moments in your life (e.g., a pivotal trip, a relationship with a mentor, an academic project).
Asking yourself: What has made me who I am today?
3. Should I write about a personal struggle or failure?
Yes, writing about a personal struggle or failure can be effective, but only if you focus on how you learned and grew from the experience. Colleges want to see how you handle challenges, not just that you’ve had them. Make sure to emphasize what you learned, how it shaped your character, and how it prepared you for future success.
Be honest, but avoid making the essay too negative or focused on the problem. Shift the focus to how you overcame the struggle and what you gained from it.
4. How long should my college application essay be?
Most college essays typically range from 250 to 650 words, depending on the specific prompt or school. Make sure to carefully read the instructions, as some schools may have specific word count limits.
If you’re unsure, aim for around 500 words—this is usually the sweet spot where you have enough space to tell a compelling story without overwhelming the reader.
5. Should I focus on academics, or is it okay to write about other aspects of my life?
While your grades and academic achievements are important, your essay doesn’t have to focus on them. Admissions committees are looking for well-rounded individuals. It’s okay to write about your personal interests, hobbies, or extracurricular activities, as long as you tie them back to your growth, character, or future ambitions.
For example, if you’re passionate about a hobby like photography or volunteering, you can write about how those activities have shaped your view of the world or developed your leadership skills.
6. Can I use humor in my essay?
Humor can be a great way to stand out if done right. A touch of humor can make your essay feel more authentic and help admissions officers connect with you on a personal level. However, be cautious not to overdo it or make the essay sound forced. Keep the humor light, respectful, and aligned with the overall tone of the essay.
Make sure your humor doesn’t distract from the main message or come across as inappropriate. It should always enhance, not detract, from your story.
7. How do I avoid sounding clichéd or too generic?
Admissions officers read hundreds, if not thousands, of essays. To avoid sounding clichéd, try to focus on your unique experiences and how they’ve shaped you. Instead of focusing on generic topics like “I want to change the world” or “I learned so much from my volunteer work,” focus on specific anecdotes that illustrate your personal growth.
Also, avoid overused phrases like “I overcame adversity” or “It was a life-changing moment” unless you can provide a concrete example that explains why it was significant to you.
8. Should I write my essay in the first or third person?
You should definitely write your college essay in the first person. This allows you to connect with the reader and showcase your personal thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Writing in the first person also helps make your voice come through more naturally, which is exactly what admissions officers are looking for.
9. How much time should I spend on writing my college application essay?
It’s crucial to give yourself plenty of time to write, revise, and perfect your essay. Ideally, you should start the process at least 6–8 weeks before your application deadline. This gives you time to brainstorm, write several drafts, seek feedback, and revise the essay until it’s the best version of yourself.
Avoid rushing through the process at the last minute. Quality essays take time to develop, so be patient and give yourself time for reflection and revision.
10. Should I get someone to review my essay?
Yes, it’s always helpful to get feedback from others. Ask teachers, family members, or trusted friends to read your essay and provide constructive criticism. They can help point out areas for improvement, offer suggestions, and catch any errors you may have missed.
However, make sure the feedback you receive doesn’t change your voice or the essence of your story. You want the essay to reflect who you are, not who someone else thinks you should be.
11. What are some common mistakes to avoid?
Here are a few mistakes to avoid when writing your college application essay:
Being too generic or vague: Admissions officers want to hear your story, not a general story anyone could tell.
Ignoring the prompt: Make sure to answer the question asked. Sometimes students write essays that don’t address the prompt fully, which can hurt their application.
Overloading your essay with achievements: The essay is not the place to list accomplishments. Use the space to showcase your personality and reflect on meaningful experiences.
Using inappropriate language or tone: Be mindful of your tone. Avoid slang or anything too casual, but also don’t make it overly formal. Find a balance that reflects who you are.
Submitting without proofreading: Always review your essay multiple times. Typos and grammatical mistakes can detract from your message and hurt your chances.
12. What if I’m not a strong writer?
If you don’t consider yourself a strong writer, don’t worry. The college application essay is about telling your story, not about showcasing perfect writing skills. Focus on expressing your thoughts clearly and authentically. The most important thing is to be yourself.
If you’re unsure about your writing, seek help from a teacher or counselor, or consider working with a professional editor to help you polish the final draft. But always ensure the final product is true to your voice.
13. What should I do if I’m not sure I have a “great” story to tell?
Every student has a unique story to tell. Don’t feel pressured to write about something extraordinary. What matters most is how you frame your experiences and what you learned from them. Sometimes the most powerful essays come from simple moments that had a significant impact on your life.
Focus on what you learned and how your experiences have shaped who you are. Your story doesn’t need to be flashy—it just needs to be genuine.
Conclusion
Writing your college application essay can seem like a big task, but it’s really just an opportunity for you to share your personal journey and reflect on your growth. Keep the process simple by being honest, thoughtful, and true to yourself. Use the FAQ above as a guide to help you stay on track, and remember—your unique perspective is exactly what will make your essay stand out.
Over the years, I’ve helped a lot of students writing and editing their college and university application essays.
It’s a really tricky balance to strike with these essays.
On the one hand, you don’t want to sound like you’re bragging or showing off.
At the same time, you want to show off. Just in a subtle way…
I’m writing this post to give you some direction based on my experiences over the years with the students that have been most successful with their applications.
The key is to stand out and impress the admissions officers – without seeming like you are trying too hard to impress!
Admissions officers read thousands of essays every year, and the quickest way to get lost in the shuffle is by writing something vague and generic. Phrases like “I have always had a passion for helping others” or “This experience taught me the value of hard work” don’t actually say much about who you are. Instead, focus on specific details and concrete moments that bring your story to life.
How to Do This:
Tell a story. Instead of saying, “I love science,” describe the time you accidentally turned your kitchen into a chemistry experiment gone wrong.
Use sensory details. What did the moment look, sound, or feel like? Instead of “I felt proud,” describe the adrenaline rush in your chest when your project won first place.
Avoid sweeping statements. Instead of “This changed my life,” explain exactly how it changed you—maybe it made you more patient, more curious, or even more skeptical.
Bragging Without Sounding Like You’re Bragging
It’s a college application—you have to talk about yourself. But there’s a fine line between confidence and arrogance. The trick? Show your accomplishments through actions, not empty declarations.
How to Do This:
Give credit to others. Instead of “I led my team to victory,” try “My team and I spent weeks strategizing, and in the final moments of the game, our plan paid off.”
Let the impact speak for itself. Instead of “I am an incredible problem solver,” tell a story about a time you found a creative solution to an unexpected challenge.
Use humor or humility. If you’re writing about winning a debate championship, you might mention the time you tripped over your own shoelaces on stage before delivering the winning argument.
Keep Your Language Simple and Unpretentious
Big words won’t impress admissions officers if they make your essay sound unnatural. Writing with clarity and personality is far more effective than stuffing your essay with fancy vocabulary.
How to Do This:
Write how you talk (but cleaner). If you wouldn’t say “heretofore” in real life, don’t put it in your essay.
Use short, punchy sentences. A sentence like “I froze. My mind went blank. And then—I remembered.” is much more engaging than “I suddenly experienced a mental lapse before recovering my train of thought.”
Read it out loud. If you stumble over a sentence, chances are it’s too complicated.
A Few Final Tips
Start early. A rushed essay is an obvious essay.
Edit mercilessly. The best essays go through multiple drafts. Get rid of anything that doesn’t add value.
Be yourself. If your essay sounds like it could have been written by anyone, rewrite it until it sounds like you.
Writing a great college application essay isn’t about using the biggest words or listing every achievement. It’s about telling a compelling story that only you can tell. Be specific, be honest, and most of all—be you.
Authenticity shines through.
Bad Examples
Here are some examples of bad college application essays that are too general, clichéd, and full of platitudes and vague statements. These essays lack the depth and personal touch needed to stand out.
Example 1: The “I Love Helping People” Essay
Prompt: “Describe a significant experience or accomplishment that has shaped who you are today.”
Essay: “I have always been passionate about helping others. From volunteering at my local food bank to tutoring younger students, I believe that giving back to my community is one of the most important things a person can do. Helping others has taught me the value of kindness, generosity, and the importance of making a difference in the world. I know that these values will guide me through college and beyond, and I hope to continue serving others for the rest of my life.”
Why it’s bad:
Vagueness: The essay is extremely general and doesn’t provide specific examples of how the applicant has helped others or what they learned from these experiences.
Lack of Depth: It sounds like a platitude that could apply to anyone, and it doesn’t offer any real insight into the applicant’s personality or growth.
No Personal Connection: The essay doesn’t discuss why these experiences were meaningful to the applicant, making it difficult for the reader to connect with the writer.
Example 2: The “Overcoming Adversity” Essay
Prompt: “Describe a challenge you have overcome and how it has shaped you.”
Essay: “Life is full of challenges, and I believe that overcoming adversity is what makes people stronger. I have faced many obstacles in my life, but I never give up. Every challenge, whether it’s personal or academic, has taught me resilience and perseverance. I know that these traits will help me succeed in college and in life. Overcoming difficulties makes us better people, and I am proud of the way I have grown through each experience.”
Why it’s bad:
Cliché: The essay uses a tired, generic theme about overcoming adversity without offering any real, specific details or examples.
Lack of Personalization: There’s no explanation of the specific challenge faced, how it was overcome, or what the applicant learned in the process. It could apply to any applicant and doesn’t showcase anything unique about the writer.
No Reflection: The essay doesn’t demonstrate self-reflection or show how the applicant has changed or developed. It simply states general ideas about resilience and growth.
Example 3: The “I Want to Change the World” Essay
Prompt: “What are your academic interests and goals for the future?”
Essay: “I want to change the world. I am passionate about making a difference, whether through science, technology, or community service. My goal is to find a way to solve the world’s problems, like hunger, poverty, and environmental destruction. I believe that with hard work and dedication, I can make an impact and help improve the lives of others. College is the next step in my journey to becoming a change-maker, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds.”
Why it’s bad:
Vague: The essay lacks concrete examples of how the applicant plans to change the world. The statement is aspirational, but it’s not grounded in any real actions or specifics.
Too Broad: The essay is filled with grandiose statements like “change the world” and “solve the world’s problems,” but without any details on how the applicant intends to do that. It’s unclear what the applicant is actually interested in.
Lack of Depth: There’s no personal insight into why the applicant is passionate about these issues, nor is there any discussion of their specific academic interests. It sounds like a generic, overly ambitious statement without real substance.
Example 4: The “My Family is Amazing” Essay
Prompt: “Describe an influential person in your life.”
Essay: “My family has always been there for me. They have supported me through thick and thin, and I am so grateful for everything they’ve done for me. My parents have taught me the importance of hard work, dedication, and kindness. They always encourage me to pursue my dreams and never give up. Because of them, I know that I can do anything I set my mind to. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without their constant love and support.”
Why it’s bad:
Cliché: This essay is filled with generic, overly sentimental statements about family that don’t add any depth or new perspective.
Lack of Specificity: It doesn’t provide any concrete examples of how the family supported the applicant or what the applicant specifically learned from them.
No Personal Insight: It doesn’t explain how the applicant has grown or been influenced by their family in any unique or meaningful way. It’s simply a thank-you note rather than an insightful narrative.
Example 5: The “I’m a Leader” Essay
Prompt: “What leadership qualities do you possess, and how have they influenced your life?”
Essay: “I am a natural leader. Throughout high school, I have taken on leadership roles in clubs, sports teams, and student organizations. I am always the one to step up and take charge. I believe that leadership is about being responsible, making decisions, and motivating others. My experiences have taught me how to manage people and work in teams. I know that these skills will help me succeed in college and beyond.”
Why it’s bad:
Overuse of Generalities: The essay doesn’t offer any specific examples or stories to demonstrate the applicant’s leadership abilities. It’s full of vague statements like “natural leader” and “motivating others.”
Lack of Evidence: The applicant says they have taken on leadership roles, but doesn’t explain what challenges they faced, how they grew, or how they impacted others.
No Reflection: The essay doesn’t show any personal growth or reflection on the leadership experience. It simply states that the applicant is a leader without explaining how or why that matters.
Key Takeaways:
Avoid clichés: Steer clear of overused phrases like “helping others,” “overcoming adversity,” or “changing the world.”
Be specific: Use concrete examples to illustrate your experiences, traits, and growth.
Show, don’t tell: Rather than making sweeping statements, use specific moments to demonstrate your qualities and achievements.
Reflect: Show how your experiences have shaped you and helped you grow, not just what you’ve done.
Good Example
Prompt: Describe a significant experience or accomplishment that has shaped who you are today.
Essay:
I sat cross-legged on the cracked pavement outside our school building, hands trembling as I held the damp, worn-out tennis racket. The summer heat of Houston wrapped itself around me like a suffocating blanket, but I barely noticed. I was focused on the ball that lay before me on the cracked asphalt court. It was a Tuesday, the day of the annual student tennis tournament, and for the first time, I was about to play on a team.
For years, I had watched from the sidelines. My school’s tennis team had always been dominated by students with years of experience, the ones who had been to tennis camps or had private coaches. I had none of that. Growing up, we couldn’t afford tennis lessons or fancy equipment. But my dad had picked up a racket when he was younger, and he would take me to the local park every Saturday morning to practice. Those weekends weren’t about winning or competition; they were about bonding. He taught me the mechanics, but more than that, he taught me patience.
I didn’t expect to be good. In fact, I fully anticipated being the weak link on the team. But what I hadn’t expected was the rush of vulnerability that hit me the moment I stepped onto the court for the first match. I was a small, shy kid who hated attention, and here I was, expected to hit a ball over a net in front of my teammates and a crowd of students. My heart pounded. I glanced at my teammates: Aaliyah, who had been playing since she was five, and Sam, who, despite being taller than me by a few inches, was also new to tennis but a natural athlete.
We were paired against the school’s best team that year. I could already see the looks of doubt on some of the more experienced players’ faces when they saw me holding my racket.
The match started. My hands were still trembling, and my first serve sent the ball flying so far off course it barely skimmed the edge of the sideline. I apologized, but Sam gave me a quick nod. “You got this,” he said, as if he believed it.
The first few games were a blur. I missed more than I hit, and Aaliyah and Sam did most of the heavy lifting. But with every serve and every rally, I started to find my rhythm. I remembered my dad’s advice: “It’s about consistency, not power.” By the final set, I was more focused than I had been all afternoon, even if I still wasn’t technically good. But it didn’t matter. I wasn’t just playing for myself anymore. I was playing for my teammates, for the bond we had built over those 30 minutes.
We won that match. Not because we were the better team, but because we worked together. We knew each other’s strengths and weaknesses, and that’s where we found our advantage. Aaliyah’s serve and Sam’s agility were the perfect complement to my steady volleys. By the end, we had each other’s backs in a way that transcended skill.
Later, when I was sitting with my teammates in the locker room, still processing the win, Aaliyah turned to me. “You know, we all thought we were just here to play tennis,” she said, her face still flushed from the match. “But it’s not just about hitting the ball. We make each other better.”
It hit me then. I wasn’t just playing tennis anymore; I was part of something bigger than myself. I had spent so much time thinking that my lack of experience would hold me back, but in reality, it was my willingness to contribute in whatever small way I could that made the difference. It wasn’t about being the best player on the court—it was about how we worked together and pushed each other to improve, regardless of skill level.
That match taught me something I still carry with me today: It’s not always about the outcome or how perfect your skills are. What matters is your ability to show up, support the people around you, and give your best effort, no matter the odds.
Since that day, I’ve learned not to be afraid of stepping outside of my comfort zone. I’ve become more involved in my school community, taking on leadership roles in clubs and projects, even when I felt like I wasn’t the “perfect” candidate. I’ve also been able to mentor younger students who are just starting to explore tennis, showing them the same patience and perseverance my dad once showed me.
I’ll never forget the feeling of walking off that court, still in disbelief that we had won. More than the match, I realized that overcoming my own self-doubt had been the biggest victory. And every time I face a new challenge—whether in tennis, academics, or life—I remember that it’s not about being perfect. It’s about showing up, pushing through, and believing in the process. And for that, I’ll always be grateful to that hot Tuesday afternoon on the tennis courts.
Why is this essay good?
This essay presents a specific, relatable experience that demonstrates personal growth and reflection. It avoids clichés and vague statements, focusing on a meaningful moment of vulnerability and teamwork, and it reveals how this experience shaped the applicant’s perspective on leadership and self-confidence. The use of a simple, yet powerful anecdote makes the story feel authentic and grounded in reality.
The line chart details the percentages for females working in various countries around the world from ages of 15 to 64. Looking from a general perspective, it is readily apparent that employment rose in all nations except for Iceland, where there was a marginal decline, and Turkey, where the percentage was stable overall. The three more developed nations also generally registered higher employment percentages compared to Chile and Turkey.
In 2003, there were approximately 10% differences in the figures for female employment in Iceland, Canada and Germany at 81%, 69%, and 59%, respectively. Over the next 4 years, these percentages were generally stable before Canadian employment began to diverge upwards to finish at 65% in 2009 and Iceland experienced the inverse trend dropping to end at 78%. Canada was more stable and concluded the period at precisely 70%.
In contrast, Chile and Turkeys’ female employment ratios were lower throughout with the former beginning at 35% and plateauing just above 40% for the remainder of the surveyed timeframe. The latter, in comparison, fell from 25% in 2003 to near 20% in the middle years of the period, before a full recovery in the final year.
Analysis
1. The line chart details the percentages for females working in various countries around the world from ages of 15 to 64. 2. Looking from a general perspective, it is readily apparent that employment rose in all nations except for Iceland, where there was a marginal decline, and Turkey, where the percentage was stable overall. 3. The three more developed nations also generally registered higher employment percentages compared to Chile and Turkey.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear overview summarising the differences and the overall trend.
This one is a little complex so it needs a second sentence for the overview.
1. In 2003, there were approximately 10% differences in the figures for female employment in Iceland, Canada and Germany at 81%, 69%, and 59%, respectively. 2. Over the next 4 years, these percentages were generally stable before Canadian employment began to diverge upwards to finish at 65% in 2009 and Iceland experienced the inverse trend dropping to end at 78%. 3. Canada was more stable and concluded the period at precisely 70%.
Begin writing about the data for the first categories.
Compare between each sentence.
Vary short and long sentences.
1. In contrast, Chile and Turkeys’ female employment ratios were lower throughout with the former beginning at 35% and plateauing just above 40% for the remainder of the surveyed timeframe. 2. The latter, in comparison, fell from 25% in 2003 to near 20% in the middle years of the period, before a full recovery in the final year.
Write about the final other parts of the graph – include everything!
The paragraphs should be about equal length.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.
The line chart details the percentages for females working in various countries around the world from ages of 15 to 64. Looking from a general perspective, it is readily apparent that employment rose in all nations except for Iceland, where there was a marginal decline, and Turkey, where the percentage was stable overall. The three more developed nations also generally registered higher employment percentages compared to Chile and Turkey.
In 2003, there were approximately 10% differences in the figures for female employment in Iceland, Canada and Germany at 81%, 69%, and 59%, respectively. Over the next 4 years, these percentages were generally stable before Canadian employment began to diverge upwards to finish at 65% in 2009 and Iceland experienced the inverse trend dropping to end at 78%. Canada was more stable and concluded the period at precisely 70%.
In contrast, Chile and Turkeys’ female employment ratios were lower throughout with the former beginning at 35% and plateauing just above 40% for the remainder of the surveyed timeframe. The latter, in comparison, fell from 25% in 2003 to near 20% in the middle years of the period, before a full recovery in the final year.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
Here are synonymous phrases for each line:
Details the percentages for various countries around the world from
Provides the distribution of percentages across different nations globally from
Looking from a general perspective, it is readily apparent that
From a broader viewpoint, it is clear that
Rose in all nations except for
Increased in every country except for
A marginal decline
A slight decrease
The percentage was stable overall
The proportion remained consistent overall
More developed nations
Economically advanced countries
Generally registered higher employment percentages compared to
Typically showed greater employment rates in comparison to
Approximately
Around
The figures for
The data for
Respectively
In the same order
Generally stable
Largely consistent
Diverge upwards to finish at
Increase and conclude at
Experienced the inverse trend, dropping to end at
Followed the opposite pattern, falling to conclude at
I recommend getting a pencil and piece of paper because that aids memory. Then write down the missing vocabulary from my sample answer in your notebook:
The line chart d_________________________r females working in v________________________________m ages of 15 to 64. L_____________________________________________________t employment r________________________________r Iceland, where there was a________________________________e, and Turkey, where t____________________________l. The three m______________________s also g______________________________________________________________________o Chile and Turkey.
In 2003, there were a___________y 10% differences in t_____________r female employment in Iceland, Canada and Germany at 81%, 69%, and 59%, r____________y. Over the next 4 years, these percentages were g____________e before Canadian employment began to d_____________________t 65% in 2009 and Iceland e___________________________________________________t 78%. Canada was more stable and c____________________________y 70%.
I_____________t, Chile and Turkeys’ female employment r______s were l_________________________________________________t 35% and p__________________e 40% for t______________________________________e. T_________r, i___________n, fell from 25% in 2003 to n____r 20% i__________________________________d, b_________________________________r.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities:
Some people think that when recruiting, companies should aim to take on people who are innovative and able to work independently while others consider they should recruit people who are able to work in a team and follow instructions.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.
When hiring employees, companies face a crucial decision: should they prioritize individuals who are creative and capable of working independently, or should they focus on candidates who excel at teamwork and following instructions? While both types of employees bring unique strengths, I believe that companies should aim for a workforce with good team-working skills.
On the one hand, prioritizing innovative and independent workers drives progress. Take, for example, Elon Musk’s SpaceX. The company is known for hiring highly independent engineers who think laterally and devise groundbreaking solutions, such as the reusable rocket system. If SpaceX had only employed individuals who simply followed instructions, it is unlikely that they would have achieved such technological advancements. In the adjacent tech industry, companies like Google and Apple thrive because they recruit employees who do not just wait to be told what to do but instead take the initiative to develop new ideas, products, and solutions. Therefore, in industries where innovation is key, hiring independent thinkers is essential.
However, in the vast majority of contexts teamwork and the ability to follow instructions are crucial. In the fast-food industry, companies such as McDonald’s depend on employees who can strictly adhere to set procedures to ensure consistency in service and food quality. A worker at McDonald’s does not need to reinvent the way a burger is made; they need to follow standardized guidelines to maintain consistency. In large-scale manufacturing, such as automobile assembly lines at Toyota or Ford, efficiency is achieved when workers collaborate and follow instructions meticulously. If each employee tried to introduce their own methods, production would become chaotic and inefficient. This highlights the fact that teamwork and compliance with established procedures are necessary for smooth operations. Another example of this would be hospitals where doctors, nurses, and administrative staff must collaborate efficiently under strict protocols to provide effective patient care.
In conclusion, both independent and innovative employees and those who excel at teamwork and following instructions have their place in the workforce. Teamwork and adherence to protocols, in my opinion, are more generally applicable and therefore valuable characteristics.
Analysis
1. When hiring employees, companies face a crucial decision: should they prioritize individuals who are creative and capable of working independently, or should they focus on candidates who excel at teamwork and following instructions? 2. While both types of employees bring unique strengths, I believe that companies should aim for a workforce with good team-working skills.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. On the one hand, prioritizing innovative and independent workers drives progress. 2. Take, for example, Elon Musk’s SpaceX. 3. The company is known for hiring highly independent engineers who think laterally and devise groundbreaking solutions, such as the reusable rocket system. 4. If SpaceX had only employed individuals who simply followed instructions, it is unlikely that they would have achieved such technological advancements. 5. In the adjacent tech industry, companies like Google and Apple thrive because they recruit employees who do not just wait to be told what to do but instead take the initiative to develop new ideas, products, and solutions. 6. Therefore, in industries where innovation is key, hiring independent thinkers is essential.
Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
Explain your main idea.
Develop it with specific or hypothetical examples.
Keep developing it fully.
Better to have more detail.
This essay is a bit long.
1. However, in the vast majority of contexts teamwork and the ability to follow instructions are crucial. 2. In the fast-food industry, companies such as McDonald’s depend on employees who can strictly adhere to set procedures to ensure consistency in service and food quality. 3. A worker at McDonald’s does not need to reinvent the way a burger is made; they need to follow standardized guidelines to maintain consistency. 4. In large-scale manufacturing, such as automobile assembly lines at Toyota or Ford, efficiency is achieved when workers collaborate and follow instructions meticulously. 5. If each employee tried to introduce their own methods, production would become chaotic and inefficient. 6. This highlights the fact that teamwork and compliance with established procedures are necessary for smooth operations. 7. Another example of this would be hospitals where doctors, nurses, and administrative staff must collaborate efficiently under strict protocols to provide effective patient care.
Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
Explain your new main idea.
Include specific details and examples.
Add as much information as you can and make sure it links logically.
Keep extending your ideas.
Include further results to extend fully.
This essay is maybe too long – aim for about 275 words.
1. In conclusion, both independent and innovative employees and those who excel at teamwork and following instructions have their place in the workforce. 2. Teamwork and adherence to protocols, in my opinion, are more generally applicable and therefore valuable characteristics.
Summarise your main ideas.
Include a final thought. Read more about conclusions here.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.
When hiring employees, companies face a crucial decision: should they prioritize individuals who are creative and capable of working independently, or should they focus on candidates who excel at teamwork and following instructions? While both types of employees bring unique strengths, I believe that companies should aim for a workforce with good team-working skills.
On the one hand, prioritizing innovative and independent workers drives progress. Take, for example, Elon Musk’s SpaceX. The company is known for hiring highly independent engineers who think laterally and devise groundbreaking solutions, such as the reusable rocket system. If SpaceX had only employed individuals who simply followed instructions, it is unlikely that they would have achieved such technological advancements. In the adjacent tech industry, companies like Google and Apple thrive because they recruit employees who do not just wait to be told what to do but instead take the initiative to develop new ideas, products, and solutions. Therefore, in industries where innovation is key, hiring independent thinkers is essential.
However, in the vast majority of contexts teamwork and the ability to follow instructions are crucial. In the fast-food industry, companies such as McDonald’s depend on employees who can strictly adhere to set procedures to ensure consistency in service and food quality. A worker at McDonald’s does not need to reinvent the way a burger is made; they need to follow standardized guidelines to maintain consistency. In large-scale manufacturing, such as automobile assembly lines at Toyota or Ford, efficiency is achieved when workers collaborate and follow instructions meticulously. If each employee tried to introduce their own methods, production would become chaotic and inefficient. This highlights the fact that teamwork and compliance with established procedures are necessary for smooth operations. Another example of this would be hospitals where doctors, nurses, and administrative staff must collaborate efficiently under strict protocols to provide effective patient care.
In conclusion, both independent and innovative employees and those who excel at teamwork and following instructions have their place in the workforce. Teamwork and adherence to protocols, in my opinion, are more generally applicable and therefore valuable characteristics.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
Hiring employees → Recruiting staff
Face a crucial decision → Make a pivotal choice
Prioritize → Emphasize
Creative and capable of working independently → Inventive and self-sufficient
Focus on candidates who excel at teamwork and following instructions → Seek candidates who thrive in collaborative environments and follow directions well
I recommend getting a pencil and piece of paper because that aids memory. Then write down the missing vocabulary from my sample answer in your notebook:
When hiring e__________s, companies face a___________________n: should they p__________e individuals who are creative a_________________________________________________y, or should they focus o____________________________________________________________s? While both types of employees bring u_________________s, I believe that companies should aim f________________________________________________________s.
On t______________d, prioritizing i______________________________s. Take, for example, Elon Musk’s SpaceX. The company is known for hiring h__________________________s who think l__________y and devise g_________________s, such as the reusable r_________________m. If SpaceX had only employed individuals who simply f________________s, it is unlikely that they would have achieved s_____________________________s. In t_______________________y, companies like Google and Apple t_______e because they recruit e___________s who do not just wait to be told what to do but instead take t___________________________________________________________s. Therefore, in industries where innovation is k___y, hiring i___________________________________________________l.
However, in t_________________________s teamwork and the ability to follow instructions are c_______l. In t________________y, companies such as McDonald’s depend ____n employees who can strictly a_s to ensure c____________________________________________________y. A worker at McDonald’s does not need to reinvent the way a burger is made; they need to follow s____________________________________________y. In l____________________g, such as automobile assembly l_____s at Toyota or Ford, efficiency i_______________n workers c_________e and follow i__________________y. If each employee tried to introduce t_____________________s, production w________________________________t. This h_____________________t teamwork and compliance w____________________s are necessary for smooth o_________s. Another example of this would be hospitals where doctors, nurses, and administrative s_____f must collaborate efficiently under s_______________________________________________________________e.
In conclusion, both independent and innovative employees and those who e_____l at teamwork and following instructions have t____________________e. Teamwork and a_________e to protocols, in my opinion, are more g____________________e and therefore valuable c____________s.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities:
Long distance flight consumes the amount of fuel that a car uses for many years and pollutes the air. Some people think that we should discourage non-essential flights, such as tourists travel, rather than limit the use of cars.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Air travel consumes enormous amounts of fuel, especially long-haul flights, and contributes significantly to pollution. Some argue that instead of restricting car usage, we should discourage unnecessary air travel. I believe this contention possesses merit and should be pursued by the relevant authorities.
Critics argue that private cars are also a major source of pollution. Unlike airplanes, which carry hundreds of passengers at once, most cars contain just one or two people. In cities like Los Angeles, traffic congestion causes vehicles to idle for hours, producing tons of CO2 daily. Relatedly, urban sprawl encourages excessive car dependency, leading to chronic air pollution and health issues such as asthma and lung disease. In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) reports that over 4 million premature deaths per year are linked to air pollution, much of it from vehicles. Given these facts, it seems unfair to blame flights alone while ignoring the impact of car travel. This is particularly the case as flights connect families and cultures in ways that cars never could. A grandmother in India can visit her grandchildren in Canada within a day. A student from Brazil can study abroad in Australia, broadening their educational and career opportunities. If flights were severely restricted, it would not only damage economies but also isolate people from loved ones and life-changing experiences.
However, it is undeniable that long-distance flights burn an extraordinary amount of fuel. A single trip from London to Sydney, for instance, uses many thousands of liters of fuel, equivalent to what an average car would consume over many years. Airplanes release emissions directly into the upper atmosphere, where they linger longer and contribute disproportionately to climate change. This makes non-essential air travel a major contributor to carbon footprints. Many nations, such as Thailand for example, amass over 20% of the GDP comes from tourism. If international tourists were discouraged from flying, although millions of jobs in hotels, restaurants, and transportation would disappear, it would encourage the growth of sustainable industries outside of tourism. Such a pivot would be a negative in the short-term but yield long-term benefits not only for any nation dependent on tourism, but more importantly, for the global health of the environment.
In conclusion, flights contribute significantly to pollution and should be targeted to reduce emissions generally. Investing in better transport infrastructure, promoting electric vehicles, and implementing sustainable tourism policies would also help address the issue without harming economies or restricting essential travel.
Analysis
1. Air travel consumes enormous amounts of fuel, especially long-haul flights, and contributes significantly to pollution. Some argue that instead of restricting car usage, we should discourage unnecessary air travel. 2. I believe this contention possesses merit and should be pursued by the relevant authorities.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. Critics argue that private cars are also a major source of pollution. 2. Unlike airplanes, which carry hundreds of passengers at once, most cars contain just one or two people. 3. In cities like Los Angeles, traffic congestion causes vehicles to idle for hours, producing tons of CO2 daily. 4. Relatedly, urban sprawl encourages excessive car dependency, leading to chronic air pollution and health issues such as asthma and lung disease. 5. In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) reports that over 4 million premature deaths per year are linked to air pollution, much of it from vehicles. 6. Given these facts, it seems unfair to blame flights alone while ignoring the impact of car travel. 7. This is particularly the case as flights connect families and cultures in ways that cars never could. 8. A grandmother in India can visit her grandchildren in Canada within a day. 9. A student from Brazil can study abroad in Australia, broadening their educational and career opportunities. 10. If flights were severely restricted, it would not only damage economies but also isolate people from loved ones and life-changing experiences.
Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
Explain your main idea.
Develop it with specific or hypothetical examples.
Keep developing it fully.
Better to have more detail.
You can vary long and short sentences.
I did some research for this essay, so yours can be more general.
Avoid over-generalizing.
Or making claims that are too strong.
This essay is a bit long – aim more for 275 words.
1. However, it is undeniable that long-distance flights burn an extraordinary amount of fuel. 2. A single trip from London to Sydney, for instance, uses many thousands of liters of fuel, equivalent to what an average car would consume over many years. 3. Airplanes release emissions directly into the upper atmosphere, where they linger longer and contribute disproportionately to climate change. 4. This makes non-essential air travel a major contributor to carbon footprints. 5. Many nations, such as Thailand for example, amass over 20% of the GDP comes from tourism. 6. If international tourists were discouraged from flying, although millions of jobs in hotels, restaurants, and transportation would disappear, it would encourage the growth of sustainable industries outside of tourism. 7. Such a pivot would be a negative in the short-term but yield long-term benefits not only for any nation dependent on tourism, but more importantly, for the global health of the environment.
Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
Explain your new main idea.
Include specific details and examples.
Add as much information as you can and make sure it links logically.
This is the side I agree with so the ideas should be stronger.
Keep adding detail.
Remember this essay is a bit long – aim for about 275 words.
1. In conclusion, flights contribute significantly to pollution and should be targeted to reduce emissions generally. 2. Investing in better transport infrastructure, promoting electric vehicles, and implementing sustainable tourism policies would also help address the issue without harming economies or restricting essential travel.
Summarise your main ideas.
Include a final thought. Read more about conclusions here.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.
Air travel consumes enormous amounts of fuel, especially long-haul flights, and contributes significantly to pollution. Some argue that instead of restricting car usage, we should discourage unnecessary air travel. I believe this contention possesses merit and should be pursued by the relevant authorities.
Critics argue that private cars are also a major source of pollution. Unlike airplanes, which carry hundreds of passengers at once, most cars contain just one or two people. In cities like Los Angeles, traffic congestion causes vehicles to idle for hours, producing tons of CO2 daily. Relatedly, urban sprawl encourages excessive car dependency, leading to chronic air pollution and health issues such as asthma and lung disease. In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) reports that over 4 million premature deaths per year are linked to air pollution, much of it from vehicles. Given these facts, it seems unfair to blame flights alone while ignoring the impact of car travel. This is particularly the case as flights connect families and cultures in ways that cars never could. A grandmother in India can visit her grandchildren in Canada within a day. A student from Brazil can study abroad in Australia, broadening their educational and career opportunities. If flights were severely restricted, it would not only damage economies but also isolate people from loved ones and life-changing experiences.
However, it is undeniable that long-distance flights burn an extraordinary amount of fuel. A single trip from London to Sydney, for instance, uses many thousands of liters of fuel, equivalent to what an average car would consume over many years. Airplanes release emissions directly into the upper atmosphere, where they linger longer and contribute disproportionately to climate change. This makes non-essential air travel a major contributor to carbon footprints. Many nations, such as Thailand for example, amass over 20% of the GDP comes from tourism. If international tourists were discouraged from flying, although millions of jobs in hotels, restaurants, and transportation would disappear, it would encourage the growth of sustainable industries outside of tourism. Such a pivot would be a negative in the short-term but yield long-term benefits not only for any nation dependent on tourism, but more importantly, for the global health of the environment.
In conclusion, flights contribute significantly to pollution and should be targeted to reduce emissions generally. Investing in better transport infrastructure, promoting electric vehicles, and implementing sustainable tourism policies would also help address the issue without harming economies or restricting essential travel.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
Air travel → Aviation
Consumes enormous amounts of fuel → Uses vast quantities of fuel
Long-haul flights → Extended-distance air journeys
Contributes significantly to → Plays a major role in
Instead of restricting car usage → Rather than limiting automobile use
Discourage unnecessary air travel → Reduce non-essential flying
I believe this contention possesses merit → I find this argument valid
Should be pursued by the relevant authorities → Must be implemented by responsible agencies
Critics argue that private cars → Detractors claim personal vehicles
A major source of pollution → A significant contributor to environmental degradation
Unlike → In contrast to
Carry hundreds of passengers at once → Transport large numbers of people simultaneously
Contain → Include
Traffic congestion causes vehicles to idle for hours → Gridlock results in cars sitting idle for extended periods
Producing tons of CO2 daily → Emitting vast amounts of carbon dioxide every day
Relatedly → Similarly
Urban sprawl encourages excessive car dependency → Expanding cities promote overreliance on automobiles
Leading to chronic air pollution and health issues → Resulting in persistent smog and medical conditions
Asthma and lung disease → Respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis and emphysema
In fact → Indeed
Reports → Studies indicate
Over 4 million premature deaths per year are linked to air pollution → More than 4 million early fatalities annually are attributed to poor air quality
Much of it from → A large portion stemming from
Given these facts → Considering this evidence
Unfair → Unjustified
Blame flights alone → Solely hold air travel responsible
Ignoring the impact of car travel → Overlooking the role of road transport
This is particularly the case as flights connect families and cultures in ways that → This is especially true as air travel bridges loved ones and global communities
Within a day → In mere hours
Study abroad → Pursue education overseas
Broadening their educational and career opportunities → Expanding academic and professional prospects
If flights were severely restricted → Were air travel to be heavily limited
Damage economies → Harm financial systems
Isolate people from loved ones and life-changing experiences → Cut individuals off from family and transformative opportunities
It is undeniable that → There is no doubt that
Burn an extraordinary amount of fuel → Consume an immense quantity of energy
A single trip from → One journey between
Liters of fuel → Gallons of aviation fuel
An average car → A typical vehicle
Release emissions directly into the upper atmosphere → Discharge pollutants high in the sky
Linger longer and contribute disproportionately to climate change → Persist in the atmosphere and accelerate global warming
Major contributor to carbon footprints → Significant driver of greenhouse gas emissions
Amass → Accumulate
Disappear → Fade away
Encourage the growth of sustainable industries outside of tourism → Support the expansion of eco-friendly sectors beyond travel
Address the issue without harming economies or restricting essential travel → Tackle the problem while preserving financial stability and necessary mobility
I recommend getting a pencil and piece of paper because that aids memory. Then write down the missing vocabulary from my sample answer in your notebook:
Air _______l consumes ________________________l, especially long-haul ____s, and contributes _________________o pollution. Some argue that instead __________________e, we should discourage ____________________l. I ___________________________________t and should ___________________________s.
Critics _____________________s are also a ___________________n. U_____e airplanes, which carry _____________________e, most cars contain just one or two people. In cities like Los Angeles, traffic _______________________________s, producing ___________y. R________y, urban _____________________________________y, leading __________________________s such as asthma ___________e. I_______t, the World Health Organization (WHO) r_____s that over __________________________________________________n, much _______m vehicles. Given __________s, it seems u_____r to blame ___________e while ignoring ______________________l. This ______________________________________________________________________________t cars never could. A grandmother in India can visit her grandchildren in Canada within _y. A_____ student from Brazil can study ______d in Australia, broadening ________________________________________s. If ____________________d, it would not only damage __________s but also isolate _______________________s.
However, it ________________t long-distance flights burn _____________________________l. A ______________m London to Sydney, for instance, uses many thousands of liters _______l, equivalent to what an _________r would consume over many years. Airplanes release _____________________________________e, where they linger __________________________________________________e. This makes non-essential air travel a major ___________________________s. Many nations, such as Thailand for example, a_______s over 20% of the GDP comes from tourism. If international tourists were discouraged from flying, although millions of jobs in hotels, restaurants, and transportation would d__________r, it would encourage ________________________________________________m. Such a p_____t would be a negative in ________m but yield ___________s not only for any nation _________________m, but _________________y, for the _____________________t.
In conclusion, flights contribute significantly to pollution and should be t________d to reduce emissions g_______y. Investing _____________________________e, promoting ____________s, and implementing _________________s would also help address ____________________________________________________l.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities:
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