What are the best ways to fix a college essay before submitting?

Feeling like something is off after several rounds of edits is actually pretty common, especially when you’ve read your own writing too many times. The best way to approach this stage is to step back and rethink your essay structurally and conceptually, not just for grammar or word choice. Here’s a step-by-step strategy that might help:

1. Print It Out or Change the Format: Sometimes, reading your essay on paper or even switching the font can help you see issues you missed on the screen. You’ll notice awkward transitions or repetitive ideas more easily in a different format.

2. Reverse Outline: Jot down the main idea of each paragraph in the margin or on a separate sheet. This lets you quickly check if every paragraph moves your story forward, supports your main point, and flows logically. If two paragraphs feel redundant or out of order, move them around. If a paragraph doesn’t have a clear purpose, consider cutting it.

3. Read It Aloud: Seriously, read your essay word for word to yourself (or better: to someone else). This is often the best way to catch awkward phrasings and pacing issues. If you stumble over a section, your reader probably will, too.

4. Focus on Transitions: Pay close attention to the first and last sentences of each paragraph. Do they connect smoothly? A simple improvement like adding a phrase such as “That experience changed me because…” can make a big difference in flow.

5. Check for Answering the Prompt: After a few drafts, it’s easy to drift from the original question. Copy and paste the prompt at the top of your document, and then make sure every section of your essay relates clearly back to it.

6. Ask for Diverse Feedback: Besides teachers, try to get a few trusted readers who don’t know you as well, like a counselor, older student, or mentor. New eyes can spot unclear logic or missing context. (Just be careful not to let too many cooks into the kitchen!)

7. Use Readability Tools: Apps like Hemingway Editor highlight overly complicated sentences and passive voice, which can mess up the essay’s flow. These tools can point out structural and language issues that regular spellcheckers miss.

As an example, one student found her essay felt 'off' because she kept jumping back and forth between two timelines. Making a quick outline and color-coding her past and present sections helped her see where the story became confusing, so she reorganized to tell everything in order. That small change made her story much clearer.

Taking even a day or two away from the essay before a final read can help you see it with fresh eyes. Your instincts are good—trust them, and don’t be afraid to make big changes if something still doesn't feel right!