How should I choose which Common App essay prompt to write about?

It’s very common to feel overwhelmed looking at all the Common App prompts, but the good news is that you have a lot of flexibility. The prompts are designed to cover a wide range of experiences and personal qualities—they’re essentially invitations to share something important about yourself.

The best strategy is almost always to start with your story. Think about the experiences, values, or perspectives you genuinely care about sharing with colleges. Jot down a few of your favorite ideas—these could be big moments of change, smaller moments with big impact, or quirky passions that define you. Once you have those ideas, look back at the Common App prompts. Most stories will fit one or more prompts (including Prompt #7, which is ‘share an essay on any topic of your choice’).

For example, if you’re passionate about restoring old bikes and it taught you patience and creativity, you could link that to Prompt #1 (a background, identity, interest, or talent) or Prompt #2 (overcoming obstacles) if there was a challenge involved. If you had an unexpected encounter that shifted your worldview, Prompt #3 about a time you questioned a belief could be a fit.

Colleges don’t have a preference for one prompt over another. What matters is authenticity and insight. They’re not looking for you to fit a certain mold—they want a vivid sense of who you are. Take the story you’re most excited about, and choose the prompt that gives you the best canvas to tell it in a compelling, personal way.

If you’re undecided between prompts, try drafting a paragraph or outline under a couple of different ones. Sometimes it’s clear which version rings truest or sparks more ideas. Many students will even realize their story fits multiple prompts, which is totally fine—just pick the one that allows the richest, most complete version of your story.

In short, focus on what you want colleges to know about you, then pick (or slightly tailor) the prompt to fit. The most memorable essays often come from unique angles on ordinary moments or unexpected stories—so trust your instinct about what feels most ‘you.’