How to Start Your Common App Essay: Brainstorming, Storytelling, and Drafting for Success
The Common App essay is one of the most daunting parts of the college application process. You’ve likely heard examples of stellar essays, but don’t know how to write something strong and unique.
While this essay is one of the most important parts of your application, it’s not going to be flawless in your first attempt. You’ll likely need multiple drafts of many different ideas before settling on the final form, so here’s a step-by-step guide to help you start the process.
Step 1: Brainstorm Positive Traits—Who Are You, Really?
Your Common App essay should be unique to you. It should be so unique, in fact, that your friends would know it was your essay even without a name on the page. To achieve this, we need to identify values and traits you hold closeley. What kind of person are you? What do you value? How do your friends and family think of you? What qualities do you bring to the table?
Start with a simple exercise: make a list of personal traits or values that describe you. Here are some examples:
Curious
Resilient
Empathetic
Creative
Determined
Independent
Adaptable
Leader / Collaborator
Write as many traits as possible, and circle the ones that feel central to your identity. These traits will become the backbone of your essay. Remember, this isn’t about what you think colleges want to hear—it’s about being authentic.
Step 2: Match Traits to Moments—Find the Stories That Show Who You Are
Now that you’ve identified key traits, it’s time to map them to moments in your life. Think about times when those traits were tested, developed, or revealed. Ask yourself:
When did I face a challenge that taught me something about myself?
Is there a small, personal moment that captures a bigger truth about who I am?
Have I ever taken a risk, made a change, or seen the world differently?
Is there an activity, moment, award, failure, or success that shows something fundamental about my character?
Here are a few jumping-off points:
A family tradition that shaped your values
A class, project, or book that changed your perspective
A moment of failure or uncertainty that led to growth
A cause or community that you’ve invested time in
A conversation that stuck with you
Think specific. Brainstorm as many moments as possible. We’ll likely return to many of them as we draft different options for your essay.
Step 3: Try a Few Drafts—Don’t Commit Too Early
One of the most common mistakes we see? Students latch onto the first idea that comes to mind and try to force it into a winning essay. Instead, we recommend drafting at least three different essays before choosing a direction.
Why? Because your first draft might help you get started, but your second or third might be the one that really clicks.
Here’s what to try:
A narrative-style essay that tells a story from your life
A reflective essay that unpacks a key value or theme
A creative or unconventional approach, if it feels authentic to your voice
Don’t aim for perfection with these first drafts. You’re truly just trying to get words and ideas onto the page to figure out which direction feels powerful and exciting to you. Spend 15-20 minutes free writing each topic. If you get stuck, start over on a new page, or jump to a different part of the essay and worry about transitions later.
Step 4: Don’t Stress the Prompt (Yet)
Fun fact: Most Common App essays are written before students choose a specific prompt. That’s because the prompts are broad and flexible enough to accommodate almost any topic.
So, focus on writing a strong personal statement first. Then, choose the prompt that best fits your story—it’s easier and less stressful that way.
Final Thoughts
The best Common App essays aren’t the ones that try to impress—they’re the ones that reveal a real human being. Start by identifying the qualities that define you, dig into stories that matter, and give yourself permission to explore multiple ideas. The right essay will emerge with time and reflection.
And if you get stuck or need a second opinion? That’s what we’re here for. As college consultants, we help students find their voice and tell their story.
Need help getting started? Reach out to us for personalized essay coaching. Let’s turn that blank page into your next big step.
AMH College Consultant is a Los Angeles college consulting firm helping students craft compelling applications since 2016. At AMH, we’re dedicated to small caseloads and unparalleled support for parents and students, giving you the expertise of a major consulting firm with the feeling of a private tutor. Reach out today to schedule a complimentary consultation.
