Should I Use Paragraphs or Bullets on the Common App? (And Other Formatting Woes)
Ah, the Common App. That glorious, soul-crushing, love-hate relationship we all have with it. It’s like the dating app of college applications—you’re swiping through schools, hoping for a match, and praying you don’t get ghosted. But amidst the stress of essays, extracurriculars, and trying to remember what you did in 9th grade, one thing that can really throw you for a loop is the dreaded formatting question: Should I use paragraphs or bullets?
The Short Answer: It Depends
Like most things in the college application process, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The Common App isn’t a high school English class, where you’re graded on your impeccable paragraph structure. It’s more like a chaotic, fast-paced improv show where you’re trying to sell yourself to the admissions committee before they get bored and move on to the next act.
Let’s Break Down the Options:
- Paragraphs: These are your classic, tried-and-true format. They’re good for conveying complex ideas or stories, and they can help you create a more polished and professional look. But they can also be a bit of a time sink, especially if you’re trying to cram a lot of information into a limited space. Imagine writing a paragraph about your love for competitive bubble blowing—it’s going to be a long and potentially boring experience for the reader.
- Bullets: These are your quick and dirty solution. They’re great for conveying lists, facts, and short, punchy information. They’re also easy to read and digest, which is a huge plus when you’re dealing with an overworked admissions officer who probably has a stack of applications as tall as a small mountain. Think of them as the fast food of application formatting—they’re not gourmet, but they get the job done.
The “Additional Information” Section: Where the Real Formatting Chaos Begins
The “Additional Information” section is the Wild West of the Common App. It’s basically a free-for-all where you can explain anything you think is important to your application, but didn’t have a place to put it elsewhere. Think of it as the “I’m Sorry, I’m Not Perfect” section.
The instructions for this section are as vague as a fortune cookie message: “You can do either bullet points or paragraphs, as people have successful applications either way, but I would try to stay consistent and not …”
So, what’s a stressed-out applicant to do?
Here’s the real key:Consistency is King.
- If you’re using paragraphs, use them throughout your section. Don’t switch to bullets in the middle, unless you’re trying to confuse the admissions committee.
- If you’re using bullets, make sure they’re all consistent in terms of formatting. Use the same bullet style (there are multiple options) and make sure your points are all grammatically correct.
Here’s a helpful tip:Don’t overthink it.
The “Additional Information” section isn’t meant to be a masterpiece of literature. It’s meant to be a quick and concise way to add context to your application. If you have something important to say, say it clearly and concisely. Don’t try to impress the admissions committee with your Shakespearean prose—they’ll be more impressed with your genuine passion and accomplishments.
The Common App Essay: A Whole Other Beast
Now, let’s talk about the Common App essay, the one that feels like it’s holding all the weight of your college dreams.
Paragraphs are your best friend here.
Remember: This is where you’re showcasing your writing skills and your ability to organize your thoughts. Don’t just throw a bunch of bullet points at the admissions committee and expect them to be impressed.
But don’t worry—there are some formatting rules you need to follow:
- The Common App platform doesn’t allow you to indent your paragraphs. So don’t bother trying. Just use a blank line to separate them.
- Italics are your only other formatting tool. Use them sparingly, and only for things like foreign language words or key phrases that you want to emphasize.
A Word of Caution: Don’t Try to Be Too Fancy
The Common App essay isn’t the place to experiment with your creative writing skills. Keep it simple, clear, and to the point. Don’t try to write a novel or a poem—stick to a standard five-paragraph structure.
Remember: Your Goal Is to Get Your Point Across
Ultimately, the most important thing is that your application is clear, concise, and well-written. Whether you choose paragraphs or bullets, make sure your content is easy to read and understand.
And don’t forget to proofread your work! Nothing is more embarrassing than submitting an application with typos or grammatical errors.
Still Confused? Don’t Worry!
If you’re still scratching your head about whether to use paragraphs or bullets, don’t worry—you’re not alone. There are plenty of resources available to help you navigate the Common App jungle.
Need further help researching or applying to colleges? Connect with us at the JobLoving community. We have a wealth of information and resources to help you through this process. Good luck, and remember: You got this!