Should I Indent My Common App Essay? (The Indentation Dilemma)
Hey there, future college student! You’re knee-deep in the college application process, wrestling with essays, transcripts, and the existential dread of “what if I don’t get in?” And amidst this chaos, a seemingly trivial question arises: should I indent my Common App essay?
Let’s be honest, the Common App platform can be as confusing as navigating a maze blindfolded while juggling flaming torches. You’re trying to craft a masterpiece that showcases your brilliance, your personality, and your ability to write a coherent sentence (because, let’s face it, sometimes those are more elusive than a unicorn in a tutu). And then there’s this whole indentation thing…
The Short Answer: No, Don’t Indent.
The Common App platform is notorious for its formatting quirks. It’s like a digital diva who demands you follow her specific rules, and indentation is one of the things she just doesn’t like.
The Long Answer: It’s Complicated.
While the Common App frowns upon indentation, the world of essay formatting can be a bit of a wild west. Traditional essay guidelines, like those in MLA format, usually demand indentation. So, you might be tempted to think, “Well, if it’s good enough for my English teacher, it’s good enough for college applications!”
But hold your horses, future scholar. The Common App has its own personality, and its text editor is a formatting police officer who will ruthlessly delete your indentations faster than you can say “college acceptance letter.”
Here’s the Breakdown:
- The Common App’s Preference: They want you to use a single blank line between paragraphs, creating a visual separation without the fancy indentation.
- Why They Do This: They’re all about consistency. They want all essays to look the same on their platform, so they can focus on the content, not the formatting.
- How to Format: So, just hit “Enter” twice between your paragraphs. You’ll get that visual break without the drama of indentations.
Beyond the Common App:
- Other Platforms: Some college applications might have different rules, so check their specific guidelines.
- Academic Essays: When it comes to traditional essays for school assignments, indenting is usually a good idea. Follow your teacher’s instructions or the formatting guidelines for your chosen citation style (like MLA or APA).
The Real Takeaway:
Sure, indentation might seem like a small detail, but it’s a reflection of your attention to formatting and your ability to follow directions.
Think of it this way: When you’re applying to college, you want to show them that you’re not just a brilliant mind, but also a responsible, detail-oriented individual who understands the importance of following instructions.
So, ditch the indentations on your Common App essay, and focus on what really matters: crafting a compelling story that will blow their socks off.
And remember, if you have any burning questions about the Common App, college essays, or the meaning of life, feel free to drop by the JobLoving community. We’re here to help you navigate this crazy journey called college applications!