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How to Approach 2020-2021 Common App Essay Prompts

Posted on February 26, 2020 by Craig

How do you tackle the main essay on the Common Application to give yourself the best shot of writing an essay that is acceptance worthy at even the most selective colleges and universities?

While your essay should be unique, your approach to writing a great essay should actually be both formulaic and geared towards differentiating your story and perspective on life from those of other applicants.

Students (and their parents) who are serious about figuring out which Common App essay prompt to pursue should take the time to watch the entire video below. In it, I walk you through each prompt that will appear on the “common” portion of the 2020-2021 Common App and give each a grade for the average and not so average Common App applicant. After you watch the video make sure to learn why you still may be having a hard time drafting anything other than bad or downright horrible responses.  Enjoy!

About Craig

Craig Meister is a college admissions coach and educational consultant. He previously held university admissions and high school college and career counseling positions in Baltimore, West Palm Beach, and Rio de Janeiro.

Filed Under: Advice & Analysis, Common Application, Essays

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