Essay format question

[mbaapp]

I had a question about the format of the essays that we write. Should it be single-spaced or double-spaced? Any other formatting suggestions? Thanks.

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear mbaapp,

Some schools will give specific instructions on essay format (i.e., spacing, margins, font size, etc.) and some do not give any format instructions. I think anything smaller than 11 point is too small and prefer a serif font like Times New Roman as it is easier to read. I also think 1.5 or double-spacing is best for the sake of the readers. Margins should never be less than half an inch, but no more than 1 inch. If your schools do not specify any of these things, then hopefully this will give you some parameters to follow. As someone who spent many years reading thousands of essays each admissions cycle, being nice to the readers with good spacing, a serif font, and the font size at 11 or 12 point is definitely appreciated.

Good luck,
Lisa