Can You Italicize on the Common App? (Spoiler Alert: It’s Complicated)
Let’s face it, applying to college is stressful enough without having to worry about the finer points of formatting. But when it comes to the Common App, even something as seemingly simple as italics can become a source of anxiety. You’re probably thinking, “Can I italicize on the Common App? Will it even show up?” Well, hold onto your hats, aspiring scholars, because we’re about to dive into the deep end of Common App formatting etiquette.
The Short Answer: Yes, you can italicize on the Common App.
But before you start italicizing everything in sight, let’s unpack why this seemingly simple question is a bit more nuanced than it appears.
The Common App’s Formatting Limitations: A Tale of Two Italics
The Common App essay text box offers basic formatting options: bold, underline, and italics. However, the real question isn’t if you can italicize, it’s how it will actually show up.
The Common App’s formatting can sometimes be a little… temperamental. It’s like trying to train a puppy to use the toilet – you never know when it’s going to work.
- Scenario 1: The Italics Mystique Sometimes, italics work like a dream, appearing exactly as intended. You’ll feel like a formatting wizard. Your essay will be a symphony of bold, underlined, and italicized brilliance.
- Scenario 2: The Italics Disappearing Act Other times, your meticulously italicized words vanish into thin air like a magician’s disappearing act. They’re there when you type them, but poof! They’re gone when you hit submit.
In short, there’s no guarantee that your italics will survive the Common App’s formatting jungle.
The Case for (and Against) Italics in Your College Essay
So, should you even bother italicizing? Well, that depends.
The Argument for Italics:
- Emphasis: Italics can help you emphasize important words or phrases, adding a subtle but effective layer of distinction to your writing.
- Internal Dialogue: If you’re including internal dialogue in your essay, italics can help separate it from the rest of the text. This can make your essay more engaging and dynamic.
- Visual Appeal: A sprinkle of italics can break up the monotony of a long essay, adding a touch of visual interest.
The Argument Against Italics:
- Formal Tone: College essays should generally maintain a formal tone. Excessive use of italics, especially for emphasis, can come across as overly casual or even a bit desperate for attention.
- Formatting Inconsistencies: As we’ve established, the Common App’s formatting isn’t always reliable. Using italics can lead to formatting inconsistencies that could detract from the overall professionalism of your essay.
- Overuse is a No-Go: Too many italics can create a cluttered and distracting look. Use them sparingly and strategically.
Think of italics like a spicy seasoning: A little bit goes a long way. Too much can overwhelm the taste buds (or, in this case, your reader).
Alternatives to Italics: The Formatting Arsenal
If you’re worried about italics disappearing or the risk of overdoing it, fret not! There are other ways to add emphasis and visual interest to your essay. Consider these alternatives:
- Bold: Boldface type is usually acceptable for emphasizing key terms or concepts. Just don’t overdo it!
- Spacing: You can use spacing to visually separate paragraphs or create a more balanced look.
- Strong Verbs: Instead of relying on italics, try using strong, evocative verbs to add emphasis and punch to your writing.
The Common App’s Essay Rules: A Quick Recap
- Keep it concise: The Common App essay has a word limit, so make every word count.
- Focus on your story: Share your unique experiences and perspectives in a way that showcases your personality.
- Proofread carefully: Errors in grammar and spelling can make a bad impression.
And remember, the Common App is not a formatting playground. Use formatting tools sparingly and strategically to enhance your essay, not to distract from it.
The Bottom Line:
While you can italicize on the Common App, it’s not always reliable. Use italics cautiously and consider using other formatting options to add emphasis and visual interest to your essay.
Ultimately, the goal of your college essay is to present your best self—a well-written, engaging, and thoughtful individual who deserves a spot at your dream school. Focus on the content and let the formatting take a backseat.
If you’re still unsure about formatting on the Common App, the best thing to do is contact the admissions office of the colleges you’re applying to. They can provide you with specific formatting guidelines and address any concerns you may have.
Need more help navigating the Common App maze? We’re here for you! The JobLoving community is always ready to offer advice, resources, and support. Let’s conquer college applications together!