The Writing Tasks: An Overview

An overview of the Common App writing tasks, with some input and advice from Mariam, a former Shaker Writing Center intern and 2020 Shaker grad.

Establishing an Authentic Voice

Advice based on information from Harvard Graduate School of Education's "Turning the Tide II" (2019) and the 2019 Dean's Commitment Letter, endorsed by more than 140 college admissions deans.

Tips: What to Avoid Writing

Advice about what to avoid in order to make sure your writing style is unique, based on tips from a New York Times editorial entitled "How to Conquer the Admissions Essay".