That feeling when you read your essay and think "this isn't working"—but you can't pinpoint why? You're not alone. Here's how to diagnose the problem and fix it.
Diagnose the Problem
"It feels generic or boring"
Diagnosis: Lacking specific details
Fix: Add names, dates, places, dialogue. Replace every vague word with something concrete.
"It doesn't sound like me"
Diagnosis: Over-edited or trying too hard
Fix: Read it out loud. Rewrite sections that feel stiff in your natural voice.
"I don't know what it's about"
Diagnosis: No clear through-line
Fix: What's the ONE thing you want admissions to remember? Cut everything that doesn't support it.
"The ending falls flat"
Diagnosis: No insight or growth
Fix: End with what you learned or how you changed—not a summary of what happened.
"It reads like a resume"
Diagnosis: Listing accomplishments instead of showing personality
Fix: Pick ONE moment and go deep. Show vulnerability, failure, or unexpected lessons.
Quick Fixes That Usually Work
1. Strengthen Your Opening
Start with a specific moment, not context. Drop the reader into action. Cut any "setup" paragraphs.
2. Add Dialogue
Real conversations make essays come alive. Include what people actually said—even imperfect or mundane exchanges.
3. Show, Don't Tell
Replace "I was nervous" with "My hands shook as I gripped the podium." Demonstrate feelings through actions.
4. Cut the First Paragraph
Seriously. Many essays start with "throat-clearing." Your real essay often starts in paragraph two.
5. End with Insight, Not Summary
Don't restate what happened. Show what you understand now that you didn't before.
When to Start Over
Consider Starting Fresh If:
- • You're not excited about your topic
- • The essay feels forced or inauthentic
- • You can't answer "What does this reveal about me?"
- • Multiple readers are confused by the same thing
Keep Revising If:
- • The core story is compelling, just poorly told
- • Feedback points to fixable issues (structure, details)
- • You genuinely care about the topic
- • It sounds like you when you read it out loud