"Invent first, and then embellish!"

by , Apr 5, 2010

This is the writing advice of Dr. Samuel Johnson, the famed 18^th century writer and English curmudgeon.

How is this advice applicable to you, writing your application essay? Is Dr. Johnson saying that you should make things up, lie, or exaggerate? That's certainly what the words "invent" and "embellish" seem to imply.

Of course that's not his pointor we wouldn't be offering it as a tip! Rather, Dr. Johnson is saying that you should create content for your essays as though it is a first draft of an inventionquickly sketch out your idea on paper. Don't worry about spelling or grammar, and dont think about style or word choice. Just write. Try and dig deep and invent a fresh perspective on your life, opinions, and experiences.

It is only at that point when your story is on paper -- that you should go back and edit. Now is the time that you fix up your language, polish it until it shines, and fill it with the details (true details) that will impress your readers and bring your essay to life.

Is an MBA application essay like an elaborate invention? Yes! Through the art of language, you'll be conveying a storyyour storythat will then be read (and hopefully valued) by others as a unique, honest portrayal of who you are. You will be inventing a self-portrait; the embellishmentsyour key traits and experiences.

Accepted.com Related Resources

• Five Fatal Flaws, a free, 5-day e-course.
• Sample MBA Application Essays
• Best Practices for MBA Admissions, an ebook.