The Power of Revision: Why Your First Draft is Just the Beginning
As a college essay coach, I often encounter students who believe their first draft should be perfect. This misconception can lead to writer's block, frustration, and subpar essays. The truth is, great writing doesn't happen in a single sitting. Let's explore why revision is not just important, but essential to crafting a standout college essay.
1. Embrace the "Rough First Draft"
Acclaimed author Anne Lamott popularized the concept of the "rough first draft" (she used more colorful language), and it's a principle I swear by. Your first draft is about getting ideas on paper, not perfection. Give yourself permission to write badly at first. You can't revise a blank page.
2. Gain Distance
After writing your first draft, step away from it. A day or two of distance can provide fresh perspective. You'll return to your essay with clearer eyes, better able to spot weaknesses and opportunities for improvement.
3. Read Aloud
One of the most effective revision techniques is reading your essay aloud. This helps you catch awkward phrasing, run-on sentences, and logical gaps that your eyes might miss when reading silently.
4. Focus on Structure First
In early revisions, focus on the big picture. Is your essay logically organized? Does each paragraph flow naturally to the next? Are you effectively answering the prompt? Don't get bogged down in word choice yet.
5. Enhance Your "So What?"
Every anecdote or example in your essay should serve a purpose. As you revise, constantly ask yourself, "So what?" Why does this detail matter? How does it reveal something important about you?
6. Tighten Your Language
Once you're satisfied with the overall structure, focus on making your language more concise and impactful. Look for redundancies, unnecessary adverbs, and phrases that could be simplified.
7. Show, Don't Tell: The Revision Edition
In your first draft, you might have fallen into the trap of telling rather than showing. Use revision to transform bland statements into vivid examples.
8. Seek Feedback, But Be Selective
Outside perspective can be invaluable, but too many opinions can be overwhelming. Choose a few trusted readers who understand the goals of a college essay.
9. Use the Reverse Outline Technique
After writing, create an outline based on what you actually wrote, not what you intended to write. This often reveals structural issues or weak links in your argument.
10. Know When to Stop
Revision is crucial, but there's also a point of diminishing returns. When you find yourself making minor tweaks that don't substantially improve the essay, it might be time to stop.
Remember, writing is rewriting. Ernest Hemingway famously said, "The only kind of writing is rewriting." This is especially true for college essays, where space is limited and every word counts.
Revision isn't about fixing mistakes—it's about enhancing strengths. It's your opportunity to take a good essay and make it great. To transform a generic response into a compelling narrative that showcases your unique voice and perspective.
Struggling with the revision process? That's where our one-on-one coaching sessions come in. We'll work together to approach your essay with fresh eyes, identifying areas for improvement and strategies to elevate your writing. We'll turn revision from a chore into an exciting opportunity to make your essay shine.
Don't settle for your first draft. Your story deserves to be told in the most compelling way possible. Book a consultation today, and let's unlock the full potential of your college essay through the power of revision.
