Using the adverb VERY

Deadlines may be over for this round, but the new semester isn’t far behind. If you are applying for the fall semester, don’t hold back from getting started early. Getting your admissions essay out of the way means early submission. While everyone else is stressing over the application process, you could be enjoying the very little time you have left with your families.

“Think a little bit more, and always go the extra mile” (TopAdmit)

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Writing tip of the week

Using the adverb (Very)

When writing many of us fail to write descriptively. We tend to take the easy way out and simply refer to using adverbs to form vague sentences. In terms of describing how great something is many students rely on using the adverb “very” - this is very good, he is very tall, I like this very much.These statements makes you as a college student sound very much like a primary school student. (Notice how “very” was used in the sentence) The adverb is followed by a comparison making the sentence more descriptive. This allows the reader to paint a clearer picture of what you are talking about. In terms of writing your admissions essay, being descriptive will put you at advantage of allowing the committee to fully understand and live your story. In most cases, however, "very" can simply be omitted, with the result being clearer and more effective writing.

Example:

"I am very excited to attend your program, and begin working toward my long-term goals."

"I am excited to attend your program, and begin working toward my long-term goals."

In both examples, the word "excited" is already a strong descriptor, indicating an active interest and expectation; in example #1, "very" is superfluous and makes the sentence sound overstated and unprofessional.

The tip here is avoid using “very” in your writing unless absolutely necessary - don’t be lazy !  Allow the reader to visualize your words and be convinced as to why you should be admitted to their school. It is essential as an applying student to be creative in your admissions essay, in order to stand out from the other applicants.