Can You Use Contractions in Your Common App Essay? (Spoiler Alert: It’s Complicated)
Let’s face it, the Common App essay is a big deal. It’s your chance to shine, to show the admissions committee who you are beyond your grades and extracurriculars. It’s your chance to tell your story, to make them laugh, cry, or maybe even think. But before you start crafting your masterpiece, you might be wondering: Can I use contractions?
The answer, my friend, is a resounding… maybe.
Hold on, I know what you’re thinking: “What kind of answer is that?” You want a clear yes or no, right? But the truth is, the world of contractions is a bit more nuanced than that. It’s like trying to decide what to wear to a fancy dinner – a tie or a tuxedo? It all depends on the situation.
Here’s the deal:
- The Common App essay is not a formal research paper. It’s meant to be your voice, your story. So, yes, contractions are generally okay. They can make your writing sound more natural and conversational. It’s like talking to a friend, right? You wouldn’t say “I am going to the store” – you’d say “I’m going to the store.”
- But…* there’s always a but. Using contractions too much can make your essay sound overly casual, almost like you’re texting your bestie. Think of it like wearing a Hawaiian shirt to a job interview – it might be comfortable, but it doesn’t exactly scream “professional.”
So, how do you strike the right balance?
Think of it like a dance – you need to find the rhythm and flow. Here’s a little dance floor guide to help you out:
- Read your essay aloud. Does it sound natural? Does it flow? If you’re using too many contractions, it might sound choppy or informal.
- Consider the tone you’re aiming for. Are you writing about a serious topic, like a personal struggle? Or are you writing about a lighter topic, like a funny experience? The tone of your essay should guide your use of contractions.
- Don’t overdo it. Keep it simple. “I’m” and “they’re” are perfectly acceptable. But steer clear of things like “shouldn’t’ve” or “wouldn’t’ve.” Those are just asking for trouble.
You might be thinking, “Great, but what about all those contradictory articles online?”
You’re right. The internet is a jungle of advice, and sometimes it’s hard to decipher the truth. You’ll find articles saying “never use contractions!” and others saying “contractions are your friend!” It’s enough to make your head spin.
Here’s the key: Trust your gut. If it feels right, go for it. If it doesn’t, don’t force it.
Remember, the Common App essay is about showing who you are, and your voice is a big part of that. So, experiment a bit, see what feels natural, and don’t be afraid to break a few rules. After all, the best essays are the ones that stand out, that make the admissions committee say, “Wow, that’s them!”
But wait, there’s more!
Let’s talk about those contractions that can really make your essay sound like a middle schooler’s text message. I’m talking about the ones that are so informal, they might make even your grandma cringe.
Here’s your cheat sheet to avoid these contractions:
- “Don’t,” “It’s,” “They’re”: These are the usual suspects. They’re often used in casual speech, making your writing sound less formal.
- “Wouldn’t’ve,” “Shouldn’t’ve”: These are the “I-don’t-know-how-to-use-contractions” contractions. They’re confusing, awkward, and just plain unnecessary.
- “Ain’t”: This one is just a no-go. It’s considered slang, and it’s not going to impress anyone.
Instead of using these contractions, why not try these alternatives?
- “Do not,” “It is,” “They are”: These are the classic, formal alternatives that will make your essay sound sophisticated.
- “Would not have,” “Should not have”: These are the less confusing, more elegant alternatives.
- “Is not,” “Are not”: These are the clean and concise alternatives that will make your writing flow smoothly.
Remember, the goal is to sound natural and authentic, but also professional and polished. A little bit of contractions here and there can go a long way, but don’t overdo it.
So, to summarize:
- Use contractions sparingly and strategically.
- Focus on “I’m” and “they’re.”
- Avoid overly informal contractions.
- Read your essay aloud to make sure it sounds natural.
And remember, if you’re still unsure, it’s always a good idea to get a second opinion from a trusted friend, teacher, or parent. They can give you honest feedback and help you make sure your essay is the best it can be.
Good luck with your essay!
Need more help?
If you’re still struggling with contractions, or you have other questions about your Common App essay, head over to the JobLoving community. We’ve got a team of experts who can provide personalized guidance and support. We’re here to help you shine!