[header] How to write a college admissions essay [title] Spend some time thinking about the question. [step] Most admissions essays come with a prompt or a question you need to answer. Read the prompt or question carefully and then give yourself some time to think about it. 
Don't just go with the first idea that comes to mind when you read it. [substeps] Consider writing down a list of ideas that come to you after you read the question or prompt.