When it comes to college application essays, many students wonder if it`s okay to use contractions. The topic might seem minor, but it can be an important consideration in crafting a polished and effective essay.
First, let`s define what we mean by “contractions.” A contraction is a shortened form of two words, typically created by replacing one or more letters with an apostrophe. Examples include “can`t” for “cannot,” “it`s” for “it is,” and “won`t” for “will not.”
Traditionally, contractions have been considered less formal than their uncontracted counterparts. In academic writing, for example, contractions are often avoided in favor of a more formal, rigid style. However, in more casual settings, such as email or social media, contractions are commonplace and generally considered acceptable.
So, where do college application essays fall on this spectrum? Ultimately, it depends on the tone and style of the essay you are trying to convey.
If you are aiming for a very formal, academic tone, avoiding contractions is probably a good idea. This can help create a sense of professionalism and seriousness that might be appropriate for certain topics or audiences.
However, if your essay is more conversational or personal in nature, contractions can be a useful tool for creating a more natural, relatable tone. Using contractions can help your writing sound more conversational and less stilted, which can be especially important if you are trying to convey a sense of personality or voice.
Of course, it`s important to note that using contractions alone won`t necessarily make your essay sound more casual. Other factors, such as your word choice, sentence structure, and tone, will also play a role in determining the overall style of your essay.
Another consideration when it comes to contractions in college application essays is the specific instructions and guidelines provided by the schools to which you are applying. Some schools may specifically request a formal, academic style, in which case avoiding contractions would be a wise choice. Others may not have any specific guidelines on this topic, leaving the choice up to you.
In summary, whether or not to use contractions in your college application essays is ultimately up to you. Consider the tone and style you are trying to convey, as well as any guidelines provided by the schools to which you are applying. With careful consideration and thoughtful writing, you can craft an essay that is both effective and true to your unique voice.