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    Application Essay Writing
  Chapter 1: Essay Writing 101  
  Chapter 2: Tackling the Question  
  Chapter 3: Brainstorming a topic  
  Chapter 4: Structure and Outline  
  Chapter 5: Style and Tone  
       Sentence Variety  
       Word Choices  
       Verb Tense  
       Transitions  
       Essay Cliches  
  Chapter 6: Intro and Conclusion  
  Chapter 7: Editing and Revising  





   
Chapter 5: Essay Clichés
 
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Top 10 Essay Clichés

According to the Merriam-Webster Collegiate Dictionary, a cliché is “a trite phrase or expression,” “a hackneyed theme, characterization, or situation,” or “something that has become overly familiar or commonplace.” The last thing you want in your essay is any of the above. Clichés make your writing appear lazy, your ideas ordinary, and your experiences typical. Arm yourself with the list below and eradicate these and other clichés from your writing.

1. I always learn from my mistakes

2. I know my dreams will come true

3. I can make a difference

4. _________ is my passion

5. I no longer take my loved ones for granted

6. These lessons are useful both on and off the field (or other sporting arena)

7. I realized the value of hard work and perseverance

8. _________ was the greatest lesson of all

9. I know what it is to triumph over adversity

10. _________ opened my eyes to a whole new world

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From ESSAYS THAT WILL GET YOU INTO COLLEGE, by Amy Burnham, Daniel Kaufman, and Chris Dowhan.
Copyright 1998 by Dan Kaufman.  Reprinted by arrangement with Barron's Educational Series, Inc.



Transitions

6. Intro and Conclusion