How bad is not being close to the word limit?

[souled394]

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For example, if there's an essay that says max 550 words, but I have around 370... do you think that'll be taken as a sign of lack of interest? I'm finding it's almost impossible to stretch what I have

 

[takeurmeds02]

I just asked this question a few weeks ago. The concensus is to be thorough in what you mean to say but don't bullsh*t just for the sake of reaching the limit. Remember that adcom is reading hundreds of these; making their eyes glaze over will make them glaze over your app.

 

[gyngyn]

Although there is a "short answer syndrome," using 2/3's of the allotted space is enough.
If all responses are really short...

 

[Holmwood]

There was some talk about ending each experience detail with a short sentence about the significance of what you learned. But I understand that that was the strategy pre-"memorable experiences section". I'm not sure if this is something you should be doing nowadays.

 

[takeurmeds02]

There was some talk about ending each experience detail with a short sentence about the significance of what you learned. But I understand that that was the strategy pre-"memorable experiences section". I'm not sure if this is something you should be doing nowadays.

I've actually been including "what I've learned" in my secondaries. I was told that you should make clear what you want adcom to know otherwise you risk them drawing conclusions other than what you intended.

 

[Holmwood]

I've actually been including "what I've learned" in my secondaries. I was told that you should make clear what you want adcom to know otherwise you risk them drawing conclusions other than what you intended.

Secondaries are fine. I was talking about primaries. That's miscommunication on my part, sorry. : P

 

[souled394]

thank you for all the input!! very helpful -- I was talking about the U Chicago secondary in particular. My other essay (the challenge essay) is near the limit, but the diversity essay ended up being shorter and I just felt like I couldn't add in anything more without completely bull****ting and I just wanted to make sure the length wouldn't be interpreted as lack of effort or interest.

 

[starlite911]

thank you for all the input!! very helpful -- I was talking about the U Chicago secondary in particular. My other essay (the challenge essay) is near the limit, but the diversity essay ended up being shorter and I just felt like I couldn't add in anything more without completely bull****ting and I just wanted to make sure the length wouldn't be interpreted as lack of effort or interest.

Having a similar problem with these same essays! First is too short, second is too long. Trying to amend now...

 

[Dr.Smexy]

One thing that I learned from a book that I quite enjoy, you always want to maximize the potential of your words. Do not use extra words and sentences to elaborate a point that could be made in less. This decrease the value of your writing. Reading is an investment from the readers and they expect a payback (useful info, advice, lessons, etc.) With that in mind, don't write more to simply fill the space but write with intention.

 

[nwts]

For example, if there's an essay that says max 550 words, but I have around 370... do you think that'll be taken as a sign of lack of interest? I'm finding it's almost impossible to stretch what I have

I feel like word limits are really just a way to give you a ballpark estimate of how specific they want you to be. 55o words says: "Please don't just give us a few sentences." 370 isn't really that short. It's nearly 70% of the word limit. I think the only time you should be worried about saying too little is if you are using well under half of the word count for a question that isn't obviously one where the word count is intentionally large for the few people who may need it (such as the "Any additional information?" essays).

 

[993444]

1) arrogance and self-centered comments masquerading as confidence and achievement

I sincerely apologize for reviving a 4 year old thread, but would you mind elaborating on what this means, perhaps by an example?

 

[993444]

An example might be thinking that reopening a four year old thread is appropriate even with apology

Example
"I am the best thing since sliced bread"
"I have striven through hard work, discipline and effort to bake the best bread possible"

Thank you, gonnif.