Does anyone have tips for using a college essay brainstorming worksheet?

Using a college essay brainstorming worksheet can be a game-changer if you tend to freeze up or find yourself defaulting to generic topics. The key is not to treat the worksheet like a checklist where you have to fill in every blank; instead, see it as a collection of prompts designed to spark different parts of your memory and creativity.

Many students find it helpful to skim through all the prompts or questions first, then pick one or two that immediately make them think of a specific memory or feeling. For instance, if a worksheet asks, "Describe a moment you felt out of your comfort zone," start by jotting down quick notes or short sentences—don’t worry about full paragraphs yet. Sometimes just writing a list of moments, even seemingly minor ones, brings up stronger ideas than answering broad questions about achievements or challenges.

An exercise that works for a lot of people is mapping out small, specific moments rather than big milestones. For example, instead of "the time I won an award," write about the day you practiced delivering your award speech alone in your room, or the one conversation with a mentor that changed your approach. Worksheets with prompts that ask for your favorite objects, routines, or surprising opinions can push you toward more original material.

A personal example: one of the most effective prompts for me was simply "What’s something most people don’t know about you?" My answer (that I secretly love stand-up comedy and write jokes in my notes app) led me to an essay about overcoming shyness through humor, which felt much more "me" than my initial generic topics.

Don’t feel pressured to do every exercise in order. If a prompt seems uninteresting, skip it and revisit later. Sometimes ideas from different sections can be combined—like linking a family tradition (from one prompt) to your role in organizing it (from another). Also, set a timer so you don’t overthink each response, and remind yourself that you’re brainstorming, not drafting the actual essay yet.

In summary: use worksheets flexibly, focus on specific memories or quirks over grand achievements, and don’t be afraid to skip around. The right prompt can unlock an unusual topic you’d never have considered otherwise. Good luck with your brainstorming this summer!