how to write trinity college essay

Trinity College 2020-21 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Regular Decision: 

Trinity College 2020-21 Application Essay Question Explanations

The Requirements: 1 essay of 250-650 words

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Community combined with Why

We know it. You know it. We know you know it. And now you know we know you know it: good research is the key to almost any supplemental essay! And Trinity College is no exception. You have your pick of two topics, but no matter which one you choose, you’ll need to connect your answer back to the campus community.

You’ll notice we’ve conveniently ignored the big, fat “OPTIONAL” at the beginning of the instructions. In our book, there’s pretty much no such thing as an optional essay, and these prompts give you a prime opportunity to show admissions what you’d be like as a student. Trust us, you don’t want to pass it up.

OPTIONAL: Please consider writing an additional, optional essay that focuses on your specific interest in Trinity College. You may select one of the following prompts and write an essay of 250-650 words. you can type directly into the box or you can paste text from another source.

We live in an urban-global age with more than half of the planet’s people living in cities. trinity college is an urban liberal arts college deeply engaged with the local community and committed to making an impact across the world. how do you aspire to use your education to impact local and global communities.

This might seem like a lot to swallow at first, but let’s break it down. Trinity College, located in Hartford, Connecticut, wants to know how you plan on using your education to affect change in both local and global communities. So, essentially, how do you plan on using your higher education to help others? If you don’t immediately envision yourself as an ER doctor in a busy public hospital, don’t worry! (And if you do, we salute you; that’s a great place to start your essay.) Many applicants will likely benefit from doing a little bit of research to kickstart a few minutes of brainstorming.

Spend an hour or so on the school website getting to know the department (or departments) that interests you most. If you’re interested in studio art, what kinds of opportunities does Trinity provide for painters or photographers to engage with the local community? Don’t be bashful about drawing your inspiration from the program; at the end of the day, an essay based on real information about the school will only demonstrate your commitment. What will you draw from the opportunities Trinity offers to students in your field? And how might you leverage that training to continue to do good in the world?

Our mission states: “Engage. Connect. Transform. As the preeminent liberal arts college in an urban setting, Trinity College prepares students to be bold, independent thinkers who lead transformative lives.” Keeping the three pillars of the mission in mind, how do you see yourself contributing to the Trinity community?

Once again, the grandiose introduction to this prompt makes it seem more complicated than it actually is. In fact, this is almost as close to a catch-all essay as you’ll find on a supplemental application. If you aren’t telling a story about the way you “engage, connect, or transform” some aspect of yourself or the world, you’re doing it wrong #sorrynotsorry. So if the more academic angle of prompt A didn’t appeal to you, or if you have a story you’re just dying to tell admissions, prompt B is where it’s at. Solid topics for this prompt would also probably work nicely with the Common App ’s first personal statement prompt, which asks about your background.

Whatever story you choose to tell, you’ll want it to be focused on a community or aspect of your upbringing that has shaped who you are. In other words, provide concrete evidence to demonstrate who you are and who you’ll be at Trinity. No topic is too big or small. You could write about the summer Sundays you used to spend doing crosswords with your grandma, and how you just know you’ll be able to connect with your peers over a shared love of words. Or maybe your memories of your family’s difficult immigration to this country will lead you to get involved with student activist groups or the school newspaper. Whatever you write about, be sure to connect it to some real aspect of Trinity student life. (Good research is the gift that keeps on giving!) With a detailed narrative grounded in research, you’ll easily be able to back your final essay into this prompt and align it with one of Trinity’s core values.

About Kat Stubing

View all posts by Kat Stubing »

Check out our Supplemental Essay Guide!

Contact us for information on rates and more!

• I am a * Student Parent Potential Partner School Counselor Private College Counselor
• Name * First Last
• Phone Type Mobile Landline
• Street Address
• Address City State / Province / Region Afghanistan Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Anguilla Antarctica Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Aruba Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Bouvet Island Brazil British Indian Ocean Territory Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cabo Verde Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Christmas Island Cocos Islands Colombia Comoros Congo Congo, Democratic Republic of the Cook Islands Costa Rica Croatia Cuba Curaçao Cyprus Czechia Côte d'Ivoire Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Eswatini Ethiopia Falkland Islands Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Gibraltar Greece Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guam Guatemala Guernsey Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Heard Island and McDonald Islands Holy See Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Isle of Man Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jersey Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Korea, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Republic of Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macao Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Montserrat Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Niue Norfolk Island North Macedonia Northern Mariana Islands Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Palestine, State of Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Pitcairn Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Romania Russian Federation Rwanda Réunion Saint Barthélemy Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Martin Saint Pierre and Miquelon Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Sint Maarten Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Svalbard and Jan Mayen Sweden Switzerland Syria Arab Republic Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania, the United Republic of Thailand Timor-Leste Togo Tokelau Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu Türkiye US Minor Outlying Islands Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela Viet Nam Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, U.S. Wallis and Futuna Western Sahara Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe Åland Islands Country
• Which best describes you (or your child)? High school senior High school junior College student College grad Other
• How did you find CEA? Internet Search New York Times Guidance counselor/school Social Media YouTube Friend Special Event Delehey College Consulting Other
• Common App and Coalition Essays
• Supplemental Essays
• University of California Essays
• University of Texas Essays
• Resume Review
• Post-Grad Essays
• Specialized Services
• Waitlist Letters
• Private School Essays
• General College Counseling
• School list with priorities noted:
• Anything else we should know?
• Email This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
• Agnes Scott College
• Alvernia University
• American University
• Amherst College
• Babson College
• Bard College
• Barnard College
• Baylor University
• Bennington College
• Bentley University
• Berry College
• Bethany College
• Bishop’s University
• Boston College
• Boston University (BU)
• Bowdoin College
• Brandeis University
• Brown University
• Bryn Mawr College
• Bucknell University
• Butler University
• California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
• California Lutheran University
• Capitol Technology University
• Carleton College
• Carnegie Mellon University
• Catawba College
• Centre College
• Chapman University
• Claremont McKenna College
• Clark University
• College of Mount Saint Vincent
• College of William and Mary
• College of Wooster
• Colorado College
• Colorado School of Mines
• Columbia University
• Cornell University
• Culver-Stockton College
• D'Youville University
• Dartmouth College
• Davidson College
• Drexel University
• Duke University
• Earlham College
• Elon University
• Emerson College
• Emory University
• Flagler College
• Fordham University
• George Mason University
• Georgetown University
• Georgia State University
• Georgia Tech
• Gonzaga University
• Harvard University
• Harvey Mudd College
• Haverford College
• Hillsdale College
• Hofstra University
• Illinois Institute of Technology
• Illinois Wesleyan University
• Indiana University Bloomington
• Ithaca College
• Johns Hopkins University
• Kalamazoo College
• Lafayette College
• Lehigh University
• Lewis and Clark College
• Linfield University
• Loyola Marymount University (LMU)
• Lynn University
• Macalester College
• Malone University
• Manchester University
• Marist College
• Mary Baldwin University
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
• Meredith College
• Monmouth College
• Moravian University
• Morehouse College
• Mount Holyoke College
• New York University (NYU)
• North Park University
• Northwestern University
• Occidental College
• Oklahoma City University
• Olin College of Engineering
• Pepperdine University
• Pitzer College
• Pomona College
• Princeton University
• Providence College
• Purdue University
• Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
• Rice University
• Saint Elizabeth University
• Santa Clara University
• Sarah Lawrence College
• Scripps College
• Seattle Pacific University
• Smith College
• Soka University of America
• Southern Methodist University
• St. John’s College
• Stanford University
• Stonehill College
• Swarthmore College
• Syracuse University
• Texas A&M University
• Texas Christian University
• The College of Idaho
• The George Washington University
• The New School
• Trinity College
• Tufts University
• Tulane University
• University of California
• University of Central Florida (UCF)
• University of Chicago
• University of Cincinnati
• University of Colorado Boulder
• University of Florida
• University of Georgia
• University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
• University of Maryland
• University of Massachusetts Amherst
• University of Miami
• University of Michigan
• University of Minnesota
• University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC)
• University of North Carolina at Charlotte
• University of North Carolina at Greensboro
• University of Notre Dame
• University of Oklahoma
• University of Oregon
• University of Pennsylvania
• University of Pittsburgh
• University of Richmond
• University of San Diego
• University of San Francisco
• University of Southern California (USC)
• University of Texas at Austin
• University of Tulsa
• University of Vermont
• University of Virginia (UVA)
• University of Washington
• University of Wisconsin-Madison
• Vanderbilt University
• Vassar College
• Villanova University
• Virginia Tech
• Wake Forest University
• Washington and Lee University
• Washington University in St. Louis
• Wellesley College
• Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI)
• Yale University

Want free stuff?

We thought so. Sign up for free instructional videos, guides, worksheets and more!

One-On-One Advising

Common App Essay Prompt Guide

Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

• YouTube Tutorials
• Our Approach & Team
• Undergraduate Testimonials
• Postgraduate Testimonials
• Where Our Students Get In
• CEA Gives Back
• Undergraduate Admissions
• Graduate Admissions
• Private School Admissions
• International Student Admissions
• Common App Essay Guide
• Supplemental Essay Guides
• Coalition App Guide
• The CEA Podcast
• Admissions Stats
• Notification Trackers
• Deadline Databases
• College Essay Examples
• Academy and Worksheets
• Waitlist Guides
• Get Started

Application Process

Applying to college is an important moment. We're here to guide you through the application process.

• Explore the breadth of our academic programs
• Take advantage of our urban location and global outreach
• Contribute positively to our college community

Trinity College has developed a highly personalized process that allows the readers of your file to get to know you not just for your grades and curriculum, but for who you really are. Read on for more information on how to apply as a first-year student, or use the links below to apply to our transfer, Individualized Degree Program (IDP), or Graduate Studies programs.

• Transfer Admissions
• IDP Admissions
• Graduate Studies Admissions

All applicants are required to submit

• Trinity College accepts the  Common Application . Students can automatically add Trinity College to their “My Colleges List” by clicking  here .
• A $65 application fee is required, and must be submitted online through the  Common Application .
• Trinity College will waive the application fee for first-generation college students. Trinity applicants simply need to click the fee waiver box on the Common Application and then click the box that reads “I am a first-generation college student.”
• An official from your school should submit an official transcript that includes course work completed during the equivalent of grades 9 through 11, the Common Application School Report, and a report that shows grades for courses currently in progress.*
• If you have completed grade 12 and are currently in a postgraduate program at a high school or a foundational pre-college program at a college or university, we require documentation that shows your current academic progress.*

*Current year grades are expected as soon as they are available.

International applicants must also submit

Applicants must submit results from either the Duolingo English Test, IELTS, or TOEFL. Click here  to learn more about our English exam requirement or to see if you qualify for an English proficiency waiver.

If you are applying for need-based financial aid, we require the CSS Profile . If you do not intend to apply for need-based financial aid, please complete our Statement of Finances Form (SoFF).

All documents, including high school transcripts (9-12), and letters of recommendations must be in English. If they are not, a certified translations must be added with the application. Services like EducationUSA can guide you through the process or nationally recognized agencies like Education Credential Evaluation (ECE) can assist. 

Applicants may also submit

In addition to the Common Application essay, you may choose to submit an optional essay that focuses on your specific interest in Trinity College. Using the prompt below, you may write an essay of less than 300 words.

• The identities you claim, the challenges you face, and the successes you enjoy shape the background for your college experience to come. What is an aspect of your background that you are excited to share and/or explore as a member of the Trinity community and why?

While not required for admission, interviews are strongly recommended. Interviews are a great opportunity for us to get to know you better, and, more importantly, for you to learn more about Trinity. Learn more about how and when to schedule an admissions interview .

• Trinity College  does not require the SAT or ACT for students applying for admission, including transfer applicants. The college is test-optional, providing students the opportunity to present application material that accurately reflects their diverse academic talents and potential. The admissions committee makes no assumptions as to why some students choose to submit scores while others don’t. All applicants are considered for merit-based scholarships regardless of whether or not they submit SAT and/or ACT scores.
• If you are interested in submitting test scores, the Trinity College ACT code is 0598 and our CEEB code is 3899.

Students with especially strong backgrounds and interests in pursuing the arts, whether as a major or an extracurricular, are welcome to submit materials in support of their application. Members of our arts faculty participate in the evaluation of submitted materials. If you wish to submit samples of your artistic efforts for this consideration, we ask that you adhere to the following guidelines .

Students who are interested in applying to a Gateway Program are able to do so via the Common Application.

Trinity College invites prospective students to apply for the Hillel Leadership Scholarship, a special opportunity to develop skills, interests, and talents as a member of the Jewish student community on campus.

To be considered for the Hillel Leadership Scholarship, students should first submit their Common Application to Trinity by one of our established deadlines. Students can then complete the brief Hillel Leadership Scholarship application . The deadline to apply for the Hillel Leadership Scholarship is January 20, 2024.

Additional details about Hillel are available on the Hillel website at: https://www.trincoll.edu/spiritualandreligiouslife/hillel/hillel-leadership-scholarship/

2023-24 Deadlines

Early decision.

If Trinity is your first-choice college, consider applying as an early decision applicant. Both Early Decision 1 and Early Decision 2 options require a signed statement affirming the candidate’s commitment to attend Trinity if admitted. Candidates may submit the Early Decision Agreement online through the Common Application site or email a signed Early Decision Agreement to [email protected] by the application deadline. Regular Decision applicants may convert to Early Decision II by submitting a signed Early Decision Agreement to the Admissions Office by February 1.

Trinity requires a diploma from and certification by an accredited secondary school or a General Educational Development (GED) certification. Trinity College admits students of any race, creed, color, and national or ethnic origin, and regardless of sex or handicap. Trinity College does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, handicap, or national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship, and loan programs. Learn more about Trinity’s Honor Code . 

Please note that due to certain firewall restrictions, the Trinity Admissions Office may have difficulty receiving messages from email addresses with an iCloud domain (@icloud.com). If possible, please use an alternate email address so that we can communicate with you in a timely manner.

Application Resources

• Common Application
• Arts Submissions
• Application Status
• NESCAC Statement
• DACA and Undocumented Students

Trinity College Admissions Office

Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin

Trinity Search

Trinity menu.

• Faculties and Schools
• Trinity Courses
• Trinity Research

Student Learning Development

You are here Learning Resources > Assessment Resources

What is an Essay and how does this help me learn?

Click here for information in PDF format

The academic essay in university is a specific form of writing with particular practices and conventions. Essay writing at this level can involve identifying and analysing a topic or problem relevant to your module. It can also involve making a claim or assertion about a topic and supporting it with a substantial body of well-presented evidence.

Developing essay writing skills may require expanding your vocabulary, improving sentence structure and fluidity, and ensuring correct spelling and proper grammar are used.  All of these skills will help to prepare you for your professional career, for example, when writing emails, cover letters, business proposals, reports, etc.

Writing essays provides you with an opportunity to deepen your knowledge of a relevant topic and to learn how to write in a scholarly way. In addition to developing your writing skills, preparing essays can enhance your critical thinking skills, communication skills and research skills. 

Which Graduate Attributes will this assessment help me develop?

Essays can help you to develop and improve some or all of the Graduate Attributes, depending on your experience and skill level, and the assessment criteria.  Here are some examples:

• To Think Independently
• Essays provide an opportunity to draw not only on relevant literature on your topic, but to practise critical thinking by stating and justifying a position of your own.
• To Communicate Effectively
• For instance, your ability to convey clearly your position on a topic with supporting evidence.
• To Develop Continuously
• Essay writing is an exercise that can always be improved upon; the more you practise, the more you can hone these skills.
• To Act Responsibly
• Meeting deadlines requires careful planning ahead of time and follow-through.

What is expected of me?

It is likely that your lecturer will provide you with a choice of questions or topics related to the material you are studying.  The lecturer might provide you with a rubric or criteria that will be used to mark the essay. The following are the kind of criteria that might be expected: Content:

• Answers the question clearly and comprehensively, in a focused way
• Demonstrates characteristics such as insight, imagination, originality and creativity
• Exhibits sound critical thinking  
• Demonstrates a clear comprehensive knowledge of the topic
• Exhibits independence of judgement  
• Clearly explains relevant theory and cites relevant evidence  
• Demonstrates the ability to integrate information
• Shows evidence of wide relevant reading and appropriate use of referencing
• Includes a sufficient number of appropriate examples  

Cohesion and Style:

• Has an excellent structure and organisation  
• Contains reasoned argument and comes to a logical conclusion
• Is lucid and well written
• Is correctly formatted and referenced 
• Lacks errors of any significant kind

You may be asked to submit through a web-based essay submission platform such as Turnitin and Blackboard.

Further resources

Writing Skills

https://www.tcd.ie/CAPSL/assets/pdf/eLearning/quickguides-turnitin/student-quickguide-turnitin.pdf

For information on how to reference your sources correctly: http://tcd-ie.libguides.com/plagiarism

How to Write an Impressive Trinity Supplemental Essay

Image Source: unsplash

Introduction

Writing a strong supplemental essay is crucial when applying to Trinity College. This additional essay provides applicants with an opportunity to showcase their unique qualities, experiences, and perspectives that may not be fully captured in other parts of the application. Admissions officers at Trinity College use the supplemental essay to gain deeper insight into a student's character and potential contributions to the campus community . Therefore, it is essential for prospective Trinity College applicants to understand the purpose of this essay and learn how to craft an impressive piece that stands out from the competition.

In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of writing an impressive Trinity supplemental essay. We will provide tips on brainstorming and selecting a compelling topic that highlights your strengths and interests. Additionally, we will discuss effective strategies for structuring and organizing your essay to ensure a clear and cohesive flow of ideas. Furthermore, we will explore how you can incorporate your personal experiences and perspectives into your writing to make it more engaging and authentic.

By following our expert advice, you will be able to create a powerful supplemental essay that leaves a lasting impression on the admissions committee at Trinity College. Whether you are a high school student preparing for college applications or a current college student considering transferring to Trinity, this blog post will provide valuable insights and guidance for crafting an outstanding supplemental essay. So let's dive in and learn how to write an impressive Trinity supplemental essay!

AdmitGPT: Your Personal College Admissions AI Assistant

Get tailored college recommendations, essay feedback, interview prep, and more.

Understanding the Purpose of the Essay

The Trinity supplemental essay serves as an opportunity for prospective students to showcase their unique qualities, experiences, and perspectives to the admissions committee at Trinity College. This essay allows applicants to go beyond their academic achievements and extracurricular activities listed in their application and delve deeper into their personal story. It is a chance for students to demonstrate their ability to think critically, reflect on their own experiences, and articulate their thoughts effectively.

The purpose of the Trinity supplemental essay is twofold. Firstly, it allows the admissions committee to gain a more holistic understanding of each applicant. By providing a platform for students to share personal anecdotes, values, or challenges they have faced, the essay helps paint a fuller picture of who they are as individuals. Admissions officers want to see how applicants have grown and what makes them unique. This essay gives students the opportunity to highlight aspects of themselves that may not be evident from other parts of their application.

Secondly, the Trinity supplemental essay enables applicants to demonstrate why they are a good fit for the college community. Trinity College values diversity, intellectual curiosity , and engagement with the world around us. Through this essay, students can showcase how they embody these values and contribute positively to campus life. Admissions officers are looking for individuals who will actively participate in discussions both inside and outside the classroom, engage with different perspectives, and make meaningful contributions to the Trinity community.

Brainstorming Compelling Topics

Brainstorming compelling topics is a crucial step in writing an impressive Trinity supplemental essay. The topic you choose will determine the direction and focus of your essay, so it's essential to select a subject that not only showcases your unique qualities but also captivates the reader's attention. Here are some tips to help you generate ideas for your Trinity supplemental essay.

Firstly, it's important to understand the purpose of the essay prompt and what Trinity College is looking for in their applicants. Take some time to carefully read and analyze the prompt, paying attention to any specific themes or questions they may be asking. This will give you a better understanding of what they are seeking from prospective students and can guide your brainstorming process.

Next, consider your own experiences, interests, and goals. Reflect on moments in your life that have had a significant impact on you or shaped who you are today. Think about challenges you've overcome, achievements you're proud of, or lessons you've learned along the way. These personal experiences can serve as excellent starting points for developing compelling topics for your essay.

Another approach to brainstorming is to think about issues or topics that are meaningful to you. Consider social or political issues that ignite passion within you or areas where you want to make a difference in the world. By selecting a topic that aligns with your values and interests, you'll be able to convey genuine enthusiasm and commitment in your writing.

Additionally, researching Trinity College's values, mission statement, and programs can provide inspiration for potential topics. Look into their website, brochures, or even reach out to current students or alumni to gain insights into what makes Trinity unique. This research can help you identify specific aspects of Trinity College that resonate with you and incorporate them into your essay.

Furthermore, don't shy away from unconventional ideas or approaches when brainstorming topics. Sometimes the most memorable essays come from unexpected angles or perspectives. Think outside the box and consider unique experiences or perspectives that set you apart from other applicants. By offering a fresh and distinct viewpoint, you'll capture the reader's attention and make your essay stand out.

Lastly, it can be helpful to discuss your ideas with others. Seek feedback from teachers, mentors, or friends who know you well. They may offer valuable insights or suggest angles you hadn't considered. Collaborating with others can also help refine your ideas and ensure they align with the goals of the Trinity supplemental essay.

Structuring and Organizing the Essay

Structuring and organizing your Trinity supplemental essay effectively is crucial to ensure that your ideas flow smoothly and coherently. A well-structured essay not only makes it easier for the reader to follow your thoughts but also showcases your ability to think critically and communicate effectively. Here are some important tips to help you achieve a clear and logical structure in your Trinity supplemental essay.

Firstly, it is essential to start with a strong introduction that grabs the reader's attention and provides context for the rest of your essay. Your introduction should clearly state the purpose of your essay and provide a brief overview of what you will be discussing. Consider using an engaging anecdote, a thought-provoking question, or a relevant quote to captivate the reader from the beginning.

Next, you need to organize your main points in a logical order. This can be done by creating an outline before you start writing. Think about the key ideas or arguments that you want to convey in your essay and arrange them in a coherent manner. You may choose to present your points chronologically, thematically, or based on their importance. Whichever approach you take, make sure there is a clear progression from one point to another.

Within each main point, use paragraphs to further develop your ideas. Start each paragraph with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea of that paragraph. Then, provide supporting evidence or examples to strengthen your argument. Remember to use transitions between paragraphs to ensure smooth flow between ideas.

Additionally, consider using headings or subheadings within your essay if it helps organize your thoughts better. Headings can act as signposts for both yourself and the reader, making it easier to navigate through different sections of your essay. They also add visual appeal and break up large blocks of text.

Furthermore, pay attention to the length of each section in relation to its importance. If certain points require more explanation or elaboration than others, allocate more space accordingly. Be mindful of not overloading your essay with excessive information, as it can make the reading experience overwhelming. Instead, focus on providing concise and relevant information that directly supports your thesis.

Lastly, conclude your essay with a strong closing paragraph that summarizes your main points and reinforces your overall argument. Avoid introducing new ideas in the conclusion; instead, reiterate the significance of your topic and leave the reader with a lasting impression. Consider ending with a thought-provoking question or a call to action that encourages further reflection or research.

In summary, structuring and organizing your Trinity supplemental essay effectively is crucial for conveying your ideas clearly and coherently. By following these tips, you can create an essay that engages the reader from start to finish and leaves a lasting impact. Remember to carefully plan your essay's structure, use clear headings and transitions, and allocate appropriate space to each section. With a well-structured essay, you can showcase your critical thinking skills and make a compelling case for why you would be an excellent fit for Trinity College.

Incorporating Personal Experiences and Perspectives

Incorporating personal experiences and perspectives is a crucial aspect of writing an impressive Trinity supplemental essay. Admissions officers want to gain insight into who you are as an individual and how your unique experiences have shaped you. By sharing personal anecdotes and perspectives, you can add depth and authenticity to your essay.

Firstly, it is important to highlight the significance of personal experiences in your essay. Your personal experiences can provide valuable context for the reader and demonstrate your ability to overcome challenges or embrace opportunities. Whether it's a volunteer experience, a family tradition, or a transformative moment in your life, these personal stories can help paint a vivid picture of who you are.

When incorporating personal perspectives into your essay, consider what makes you stand out from other applicants. Reflect on your values, beliefs, and passions that have influenced your choices and actions. This could include discussing how growing up in a multicultural household has shaped your worldview or how participating in community service has fostered empathy and compassion within you.

To effectively incorporate personal experiences and perspectives into your essay, here are some tips to consider:

Be specific: Instead of providing vague descriptions or general statements, focus on specific moments or events that have had a significant impact on you. This will make your essay more engaging and memorable.

Show growth: Admissions officers are interested in seeing how you have grown or changed as a result of your experiences. Discuss any challenges you faced and how they helped shape your character or perspective.

Connect to Trinity College: Make sure to tie in why these experiences are relevant to Trinity College specifically. How will these experiences contribute to the campus community? How do they align with Trinity's values?

Balance personal stories with academic goals: While it's important to showcase your personal side, remember that this is still an academic essay. Connect your personal experiences back to the academic realm by discussing how they have influenced your choice of major or future career aspirations.

By incorporating personal experiences and perspectives into your Trinity supplemental essay, you can provide a unique and compelling narrative that showcases your individuality. Remember to be authentic, reflective , and thoughtful in your writing. Admissions officers are looking for students who can bring diverse perspectives and experiences to their campus community, so make sure to let your true self shine through in your essay.

Crafting a Strong Conclusion

Crafting a strong conclusion is essential for leaving a lasting impression on the readers of your Trinity supplemental essay. While the introduction sets the tone and captures their attention, the conclusion is your final opportunity to make a persuasive case for why you are an ideal candidate for Trinity College.

To create a powerful conclusion, it is important to emphasize the main points you have discussed throughout your essay. Recapitulate the key ideas and arguments you have presented in a concise manner, reminding the reader of your main thesis statement and how it relates to your personal experiences and perspectives.

In addition to summarizing your main points, consider adding a personal touch to your conclusion. Reflect on how writing this essay has impacted you personally and what you have learned from the process. Share any insights or growth that you have experienced as a result of reflecting on your own experiences and aspirations.

Furthermore, make sure to tie everything together in a cohesive manner. Connect your personal journey and motivations with what Trinity College has to offer. Highlight specific aspects of Trinity's academic programs, campus culture, or extracurricular opportunities that align with your interests and goals.

Finally, end your essay with a strong closing statement that leaves a lasting impression on the reader. Consider using an impactful quote or anecdote that encapsulates the essence of who you are as an individual and why you would be an asset to Trinity College.

In conclusion, crafting a strong conclusion for your Trinity supplemental essay requires summarizing key points, reflecting on personal growth, connecting with Trinity College's offerings, and ending with an impactful closing statement. By following these tips, you can leave a lasting impression on admissions officers and increase your chances of being accepted into Trinity College. Good luck!

Tips for Crafting a Successful Supplemental Essay for Wellesley College 2023-2024

Effective Strategies for Crafting Chapel Hill's Impressive Supplemental Essays

Mastering the Art of Crafting an Impressive Dartmouth Supplemental Essay

Key Elements for Writing an Outstanding College Essay

Strategies for Crafting an Outstanding Indiana University Supplemental Essay

© Copyright 2023 AdmitGPT - All Rights Reserved

• Writing Instruction and Support

Trinity College Writing Centre

Trinity College’s Writing Centre provides confidential, individualized instruction in, and detailed assessments of, any and all written course assignments in any discipline, from scientific reports to social science/humanities research essays. Writing Centre instructors won’t write your paper for you, or tell you what to say, but they can advise you on the organization, argumentation, documentation, rhetoric, grammar, and style of your written work. (They will also help you with oral presentations!) Writing Centre instructors are pleased to work with you at any stage of the writing process, from conceptualization to final draft. Their aim is to help you improve your ability to write clearly, coherently, logically, and persuasively, using a hands-on approach.

Book An Appointment

Appointments are currently available both in-person and online.  We look forward to meeting with you and helping you improve your writing skills!

Book an appointment today at  https ://uoft.me/writingcentres .

If you have questions, contact:

• Jessica Gardiner Acting Director/Writing Instructor, Trinity College Writing Centre [email protected]

WRITING SUPPORT from the ACADEMIC DONS 

During the regular academic school year, you can also connect with an Academic Don for additional help with your writing! Get in touch with one of our Writing Support Dons – Avia Amon, Etienne Cardin-Trudeau, and Isabelle Zhu – or with our Writing for the Sciences Don, Sun Eui Choi, or with the Don for the subject area your assignment is in, for a consultation.

Other Resources

Trinity students who are interested in improving their academic skills (writing and beyond),  are welcome to attend any workshops within the Writing Plus series , which range from “Understanding the Assignment” to “Writing Through Stress.” No pre-registration is required!

Read about other writing resources at U of T: Writing at the University of Toronto

• Who to Contact
• Academic Advising
• Academic Advising & Career Exploration
• Academic Dons
• Learning Strategist
• Accessibility Advisor
• Math Support
• Academic Peer Advisors
• Research Help

How to Write Your College Essay: The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide

Getting ready to start your college essay? Your essay is very important to your application — especially if you’re applying to selective colleges.

Become a stronger writer by reviewing your peers’ essays and get your essay reviewed as well for free.

We have regular livestreams during which we walk you through how to write your college essay and review essays live.

College Essay Basics

Just getting started on college essays? This section will guide you through how you should think about your college essays before you start.

• Why do essays matter in the college application process?
• What is a college application theme and how do you come up with one?
• How to format and structure your college essay

Before you move to the next section, make sure you understand:

How a college essay fits into your application

What a strong essay does for your chances

How to create an application theme

Learn the Types of College Essays

Next, let’s make sure you understand the different types of college essays. You’ll most likely be writing a Common App or Coalition App essay, and you can also be asked to write supplemental essays for each school. Each essay has a prompt asking a specific question. Each of these prompts falls into one of a few different types. Understanding the types will help you better answer the prompt and structure your essay.

• How to Write a Personal Statement That Wows Colleges
• Personal Statement Essay Examples
• How to Write a Stellar Extracurricular Activity Essay
• Extracurricular Essay Examples
• Tips for Writing a Diversity College Essay
• Diversity Essay Examples
• Tips for Writing a Standout Community Service Essay
• How to Write the “Why This Major” Essay
• How to Write a “Why This Major” Essay if You’re Undecided
• How to write the “Why This College” Essay
• How to Research a College to Write the “Why This College” Essay
• Why This College Essay Examples
• How to Write The Overcoming Challenges Essay
• Overcoming Challenges Essay Examples

Identify how each prompt fits into an essay type

What each type of essay is really asking of you

How to write each essay effectively

The Common App essay

Almost every student will write a Common App essay, which is why it’s important you get this right.

• How to Write the Common App Essay
• Successful Common App Essay Examples
• 5 Awesome College Essay Topics + Sample Essays
• 11 Cliché College Essay Topics + How to Fix Them

How to choose which Common App prompts to answer

How to write a successful Common App essay

What to avoid to stand out to admissions officers

Supplemental Essay Guides

Many schools, especially competitive ones, will ask you to write one or more supplemental essays. This allows a school to learn more about you and how you might fit into their culture.

These essays are extremely important in standing out. We’ve written guides for all the top schools. Follow the link below to find your school and read last year’s essay guides to give you a sense of the essay prompts. We’ll update these in August when schools release their prompts.

See last year’s supplemental essay guides to get a sense of the prompts for your schools.

Essay brainstorming and composition

Now that you’re starting to write your essay, let’s dive into the writing process. Below you’ll find our top articles on the craft of writing an amazing college essay.

• Where to Begin? 3 Personal Essay Brainstorming Exercises
• Creating the First Draft of Your College Application Essay
• How to Get the Perfect Hook for Your College Essay
• What If I Don’t Have Anything Interesting To Write About In My College Essay?
• 8 Do’s and Don’t for Crafting Your College Essay
• Stuck on Your College Essay? 8 Tips for Overcoming Writer’s Block

Understand how to write a great hook for your essay

Complete the first drafts of your essay

Editing and polishing your essay

Have a first draft ready? See our top editing tips below. Also, you may want to submit your essay to our free Essay Peer Review to get quick feedback and join a community of other students working on their essays.

• 11 Tips for Proofreading and Editing Your College Essay
• Getting Help with Your College Essay
• 5 DIY Tips for Editing Your College Essay
• How Long Should Your College Essay Be?
• Essential Grammar Rules for Your College Apps
• College Essay Checklist: Are You Ready to Submit?

Proofread and edited your essay.

Had someone else look through your essay — we recommend submitting it for a peer review.

Make sure your essay meets all requirements — consider signing up for a free account to view our per-prompt checklists to help you understand when you’re really ready to submit.

Advanced College Essay Techniques

Let’s take it one step further and see how we can make your college essay really stand out! We recommend reading through these posts when you have a draft to work with.

• 10 Guidelines for Highly Readable College Essays
• How to Use Literary Devices to Enhance Your Essay
• How to Develop a Personalized Metaphor for Your College Applications

Related information

Ise a1 (a1) resources, ise foundation (a2) resources, ise i (b1) resources, ise ii (b2) resources, ise iii (c1) resources, ise iv (c2) resources, reading & writing - ise i (b1), classroom activities.

Practice activities suitable for ISE I (B1):

Task 1 - Long reading

• Activity 1 - Fashion
• Activity 2 - Cinemas
• Activity 3 - Skimming travel information

Task 2 - Multi-text reading

• Activity 1 - Greeting cards
• Activity 2 - Time

Task 3 - Reading into writing

• Activity 1 - Strict or relaxed parents
• Activity 2 - Means of transport
• Activity 3 - Sugar

Task 4 - Extended writing

• Activity 1 - Blogging
• Activity 2 - Seasonal celebration
• Activity 3 - Email to school principal

Writing genres

• Guidance on Writing genres – writing in specific genres for the exam – eg a letter, email, essay, review, report, etc.

Building process writing skills

• Portfolio Toolkit for teachers – ISE I  - a method for teachers to help students build process writing skills (not assessed).

Practice papers

Practise answering typical exam questions:

• Sample paper 1 (with notes)
• Sample paper 1 (with answers)
• Sample paper 2 (with answers)
• Sample paper 3 (with answers)
• Sample paper 4 (with answers)
• Sample paper 5 (with answers)
• Sample paper 6 (with answers)
• Sample paper 7 (with answers)

Marking and interpreting outcomes:

• How to mark practice ISE exam materials
• Example marked candidate responses - ISE I

Keep in touch

Make sure you don’t miss the latest news from Trinity College London. Sign up for email updates about your subject area.

The following pages contain information about our Essay Prizes run for Lower and Upper 6th Students internationally, including how to apply.

The Robson History Prize will not run in 2024 but we are expecting to run it again in 2025.

Gould Prize for Essays in English Literature

Languages and Cultures Essay Prize

Linguistics Essay Prize

Philosophy Essay Prize

R.A. Butler Politics Prize

Robert Walker Prize for Essays in Law

• Share on Twitter
• Share on Facebook
• Share on LinkedIn
• Share via email
• previous post: Information for Offer Holders
• next post: Gould prize for essays in English Literature

Access and Outreach Hub

Privacy overview.

First Year Tip Series: Introduction to Case Notes

Ben conlon, senior editorial board (online editor).

A case note is something that every law student is asked to write at some point in their studies and, without some direction, can be a daunting task. This article aims to briefly explain what a case note is, what the benefits of writing a case note are, and how to actually write a case note. Further information is also included at the end of the piece about the Gernot Biehler Case Note competition.

What is a Case Note?

A case note is a summary and analysis of a single case, as opposed to an article, which examines an area of law. A case note should outline the facts of the case, as well as its ratio decedendi , and also provide a critical analysis of the decision. The analysis should concern the correctness of the decision, with reference to case law, accepted logic and academic opinion. A good case note usually contains analysis of the effect that the decision may have on future cases, especially if the decision is a departure from a previously settled point of law.

What to Keep in Mind when Selecting a Case

If you have the option of selecting the case you would like to write on, below are some factors you should keep in mind:

• Try to pick an area of significant concern or a topical issue
• Does the case seem to ignore reason/common sense?
• Is there a recent case where the court departs from precedent or a position accepted in other jurisdictions?
• Does the decision which may have significant extra-legal repercussions.
• Will this decision prompt interesting results in future cases?
• Was this the first case in a newly-legislated area?
• Has there already been substantial academic commentary written on this case? Often it may be better, for originality’s sake to write on a new case, or one that has not been subject to as much discussion.

How to Write a Case Note

(A) Research

As with any piece of legal writing, the first step in writing a case note is conducting the necessary research. Read the case multiple times and note down the facts and the ratio decedendi . The case should be read in the context of the area of law as a whole; understanding how the case relates to existing principles and case law is key in forming a critique and analysis. Further consideration should be given to whether the law is still relevant, and whether it is still considered to be a strong precedent. While a case note tends not to rely on academic sources as much as a legal essay, it is still worth exploring academic commentary around the case, from which a greater perspective can be gleaned.

(B) Writing

There is no rigid structure for how a case note should be written, but this article will attempt to lay out a basic structure and guide for writing the case note itself. It is worth noting that many brilliant case notes do not follow this structure, and can often depart from it dramatically, so there is no pressure to follow this structure.

As is the case in most legal writing, it is generally recommended that the piece is broken down into separate headings. This can make the case note easier to follow, and direct the reader to the important elements of the piece. When writing a case note for a legal journal or a university assignment, regard should be had for the word-count when deciding on how specific the headings are; if there is a lower word-count, it might make sense to merge some of the headings together.

(i) The Introduction

The introduction of a case note should introduce the case and indicate the court in which it was decided. It should lay out the structure of the case note, explain the significance of the case (i.e. the change in the law brought about by the case), and briefly outline your opinion of the case.

(ii) The Facts of the Case

The second section of the case note should briefly outline the facts of the case. It is important to keep in mind that a case note is not simply a summary of a case; the facts simply set out the background for your analysis. Due to this, this section of the case note should not be too long, and the aim should be to illustrate the facts that were relevant in the court’s reasoning, rather than the entirety of the factual circumstances. This is generally a good place to mention the decisions of the lower courts in relation to the case at hand.

(iii) The Decision and the Ratio Decidendi

This section of the case note should deal with the reasoning that lead to the court’s decision, and specific emphasis should be placed on the key decisions and the ratio decedendi . Here, detail should be provided on the case law that the court either relied on or moved away from, and a short explanation of the reasoning behind such moves should be given. The way that the decision was handled should also be mentioned (e.g. was the judgment suspended to allow the government to amend the issue?), as this is often indicative of the attitude of the courts in relation to the issue at hand.

(iv) Critical Analysis/Further Discussion

The primary aim of a case note is to critically analyse a particular decision and the effect it has on the law. “Critically analyse” can be a confusing phrase, so considering some of the following questions may be a useful starting point:

• Is the logic of the judgment sound? Do you agree with it? Why or why not?
• Does the judgment differ or depart from previous decisions? Does it follow some aspects but not others?
• How does the judgment compare with international precedent?
• Does the judgment reflect political/economic/cultural tensions?
• Does the judgment fail to acknowledge any legal or extralegal repercussions it may have?
• Has the judgment failed to address any important questions?
• Do you agree with the decision? Why?

It is worth noting that “critically analyse” does not mean you have to disagree with a judgment; the best critical analysis praises some aspects of a judgment, and attacks others. Commentary on previous related decisions may help to inform your opinion on a case, and help with the critical analysis. It is recommended that some thought is given to how the case may have a lasting impact, and it should be acknowledged whether or not the case might be open to appeal. However, as in any legal piece, it is advisable that a certain degree of critical analysis is woven throughout the piece, rather than isolated to one section.

(v) Conclusion

The conclusion should very briefly summarise the decision, the flaws and achievements that have been discussed throughout the case note, and your overall opinion. A general rule for any piece of writing is that new substantive arguments that have not been discussed in the body of the piece should not be introduced in the conclusion. Finally, some concluding remarks could be offered about the effect of the case on that area of law, and how future cases may be influenced by it.

Some Final Tips

As is the case with any piece of legal writing, there should be a cohesive thread of argument that runs through the case note, but this may be difficult to  pick up on  after several hours of writing by yourself.  As a result, the argument you have crafted might make sense to you, but not to a new reader. One of the best ways to deal with this is to ask someone else to read over the piece and offer some of their own comments.

While it is always advised to read through previous academic pieces written on your chosen area, make sure when citing academics that you are also evaluating their arguments to the reader. Do you agree with what the academic has said? How does their argument bolster yours? Or, how would you refute what the academic has argued? Analysing the academic commentary you have utilised is key to presenting critical analysis in your piece.

In the same vein, when presenting your arguments, it is recommended that you recognise ‘the other side.’ This is particularly important in controversial areas of law, like socio-economic rights, where presenting a one-sided argument will reflect poorly on the author’s critical analysis.

As a final note, the TCLR Online has published many case notes, and reading over these can help you to form a picture of what a case note looks like, and what a case note should contain. Many longer case notes have also been published in the print version of the TCLR, which can be found on the legal article database Heinonline.

The Gernot Biehler Case Note Competition

The Trinity College Law Review runs an annual case note competition in honour of Dr. Gernot Biehler. Dr. Biehler was a distinguished fellow of Trinity College and a lecturer in international law and conflicts of law, who died aged 48. Dr. Biehler was a keen supporter of the work of the Law Review.

The competition is open to first and second year undergraduate students from all universities. Case notes are subject to a word limit of 3,000 words excluding footnotes, and the deadline for submitting your entry is the 17th January 2020. The winning entry is published in the print journal of the Trinity College Law Review, and the winner receives a cash prize of €250. More information on the competition can be found at www.trinitycollegelawreview.org/submissions/ .

Share this:

Leave a reply cancel reply.

How to Write a College Application Essay

Find the right college for you..

Your essay reveals something important about you that your grades and test scores can't─your personality. It can give admissions officers a sense of who you are and showcase your writing ability. Here are some things that admissions officers look for in a personal essay for college.

1. Open Strong.

Knowing how to start a college essay can create a strong opening paragraph that immediately captures the reader’s interest. You want to make the admissions officer reading your essay curious about what you say next.

2. Show You Can Write.

Colleges want to see that you have a command of the basics of good writing, which is a key component of success in college.

3. Answer the Prompt.

Admissions officers also want to see that the student can give a direct answer while sticking to a comprehensive narrative. When writing college essays, consider the point you want to make and develop a fleshed-out response that fits the prompt. Avoid force-fitting prewritten pieces. Approach every personal essay prompt as if it's your first.

4. Stick to Your Style.

Writing college essays isn't about using flowery or verbose prose. Avoid leaning too heavily on the thesaurus to sound impressive. Choose a natural writing style that’s appropriate for the subject matter.

Also, avoid stressing about trying to write what you think colleges want to see. Learning how to draft a good essay for college is about showcasing who you are. Stay true to your voice. Keep in mind that authenticity is more important than anything else.

5. Proofread.

Correct grammar, punctuation, and spelling are essential. Proofread several times after you've finished. Then ask a teacher, parent, or college English major to give it a quick read as well.

6. Keep Track of Length.

Finally, admissions officers value succinctness. Remember to pay attention to the recommended essay length or word count.

Bonus Tips and College Essay Writing Help

For more on how to write a college essay, check out these Tips for Writing Your College Admissions Essay .

What is the college application essay?

A personal essay for college applications is an opportunity for admission admissions panels to get more insight into who you are and what you have to offer. It's often the most personal component of the application, going beyond grades and standardized test scores. Essays usually have open-ended prompts, allowing you to flex your writing skills and make a personal statement.

Does my college application essay really matter?

Learning how to write a successful essay for college is crucial. This essay's exact weight on your chances of acceptance varies from one school to the next. But it's an element of your application that all admissions teams consider. Your essay could be the thing that gets you off a waiting list or gives you a competitive edge over other applicants.

What are colleges looking for in my application essay?

Knowing what to include in a college essay is half the battle. Admissions teams look for many things, but the most influential are authenticity, writing ability, character details, and positive traits. The purpose of the essay is to shed light on your background and gain perspective on your real-world experiences.

When should I start writing my college essay?

Because you'll want to tailor each application to each school, expect to write multiple personal essays. Advisers typically recommend starting these pieces during the summer before your senior year of high school. This will give you ample time to concentrate on writing a college essay before you're hit with schoolwork.

What can I do to write an effective college essay if I'm not a strong writer?

Good writing skills matter, but the best college essay is about the quality of your response. Authentic stories in a natural voice have impact. The story you want to tell about yourself will work better for you if it’s told in language that’s not overly sophisticated. Work with a writing coach for help with the academic aspects. Make responding with substance a priority.

How can I write my college essay if I have no monumental experiences?

You don't need life-changing moments to impress an admissions panel. Think about your personal experiences. Describe moments that left a lasting impact. The important thing is to have a fleshed-out narrative that provides insight into your life and way of thinking. Some of the best essays revolve around meaningful moments rather than flashy ones.

How should I start brainstorming topics for my college essay?

Most colleges provide open-ended prompts. Using the topic as inspiration, think about critical milestones or essential lessons you learned during your academic career. Tell stories about real-life experiences that have shaped the person you are. Write them down to brainstorm ideas. Choose stories that highlight your best traits.

What is a good list of essay topics to start with? What essay topics should I avoid?

Good topics when writing college essays include personal achievements, meaningful lessons, life-changing challenges, and situations that fostered personal growth. It's best to avoid anything too intimate or controversial. You want to open up, but it's not a good idea to go overboard or alienate members of the admissions panel.

What format should I use for my college essay?

Read the prompt and essay instructions thoroughly to learn how to start off a college essay. Some colleges provide guidance about formatting. If not, the best course of action is to stick with a college standard like the MLA format.

How long should my essay be?

The average length of a personal essay for college is 400─600 words. Always read the prompt. Follow the instructions provided in the application.

Who should I ask to review my college essay?

Turn to your school counselor for review. They understand what college admissions panels are looking for, and they can provide valuable insight into your piece's quality. You can also reach out to English teachers and other educators for proofreading.

Related Articles

How To Write A Research Paper

Find Sources For A Research Paper

How to Find Sources For a Research Paper | A Guide

10 min read

Published on: Mar 26, 2024

Last updated on: Mar 25, 2024

People also read

How to Write a Research Paper Step by Step

How to Write a Proposal For a Research Paper in 10 Steps

A Comprehensive Guide to Creating a Research Paper Outline

Types of Research - Methodologies and Characteristics

300+ Engaging Research Paper Topics to Get You Started

Interesting Psychology Research Topics & Ideas

Qualitative Research - Types, Methods & Examples

Understanding Quantitative Research - Definition, Types, Examples, And More

Research Paper Example - Examples for Different Formats

How To Start A Research Paper - Steps With Examples

How to Write an Abstract That Captivates Your Readers

How To Write a Literature Review for a Research Paper | Steps & Examples

Types of Qualitative Research Methods - An Overview

Understanding Qualitative vs. Quantitative Research - A Complete Guide

How to Cite a Research Paper in Different Citation Styles

Easy Sociology Research Topics for Your Next Project

200+ Outstanding History Research Paper Topics With Expert Tips

How To Write a Hypothesis in a Research Paper | Steps & Examples

How to Write an Introduction for a Research Paper - A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Write a Good Research Paper Title

How to Write a Conclusion for a Research Paper in 3 Simple Steps

How to Write an Abstract For a Research Paper with Examples

How To Write a Thesis For a Research Paper Step by Step

How to Write a Discussion For a Research Paper | Objectives, Steps & Examples

How to Write the Results Section of a Research Paper - Structure and Tips

How to Write a Problem Statement for a Research Paper in 6 Steps

How To Write The Methods Section of a Research Paper Step-by-Step

Share this article

Research papers are an essential part of academic life, but one of the most challenging aspects can be finding credible sources to support your arguments. 

With the vast amount of information available online, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. However, by following some simple steps, you can streamline the process of finding reliable sources for your research paper . 

In this guide, we'll break down the process into easy-to-follow steps to help you find the best sources for your paper.

On This Page On This Page -->

Step 1: Define Your Topic and Research Questions

Before you venture into your quest for sources, it's essential to have a clear understanding of your research topic and the specific questions you aim to address. Define the scope of your paper and identify keywords and key concepts that will guide your search for relevant sources.

Step 2: Utilize Academic Databases

Academic databases are treasure troves of scholarly articles, research papers, and academic journals covering a wide range of subjects. Institutions often provide access to these databases through their libraries. Some popular academic databases include:

• IEEE Xplore
• Google Scholar

These databases allow you to search for peer-reviewed articles and academic papers related to your topic. 

Use advanced search features to narrow down your results based on publication date, author, and keywords .

Academic Resources Classified by Discipline

Here's a breakdown of prominent databases categorized by academic discipline:

Step 3: Explore Library Catalogs

Your university or local library's catalog is another valuable resource for finding sources. Library catalogs contain books, periodicals, and other materials that may not be available online. 

Use the catalog's search function to locate relevant books, journals, and other materials that can contribute to your research.

Step 4: Consult Bibliographies and References

When you find a relevant source, take note of its bibliography or make a list of sources for the research paper. These lists often contain citations to other works that may be useful for your research. 

By exploring the references cited in a particular source, you can uncover additional resources and expand your understanding of the topic.

Step 5: Boolean Operators for Effective Searches

Boolean operators are words or symbols used to refine search queries by defining the relationships between search terms. The three primary operators include "AND," which narrows searches by requiring all terms to be present; "OR," which broadens searches by including either term or both; and "NOT," which excludes specific terms to refine results further. 

Most databases provide advanced search features for seamless application of Boolean logic.

Step 6: Consider Primary Sources 

Depending on your research topic, primary sources such as interviews, surveys, archival documents, and original data sets can provide valuable insights and support for your arguments. 

Primary sources offer firsthand accounts and original perspectives on historical events, social phenomena, and scientific discoveries.

Step 7: Evaluate the Credibility of Sources

Not all sources are created equal, and it's crucial to evaluate the credibility and reliability of the information you encounter. 

Consider the author's credentials, the publication venue, and whether the source is peer-reviewed. Look for evidence of bias or conflicts of interest that may undermine the source's credibility.

Step 8: Keep Track of Your Sources

As you gather sources for your research paper, maintain a systematic record of the materials you consult.  Keep track of bibliographic information, including author names, publication dates, titles, and page numbers . This information will be invaluable when citing your sources and creating a bibliography or works cited page.

Other Online Sources

In addition to academic databases and library catalogs, exploring popular online sources can provide valuable insights and perspectives on your research topic.  Here are some types of online sources you can consider:

Websites hosted by reputable organizations, institutions, and experts (such as the New York Times) can offer valuable information and analysis on a wide range of topics. Look for websites belonging to universities, research institutions, government agencies, and established non-profit organizations.

Crowdsourced Encyclopedias like Wikipedia

While Wikipedia can provide a broad overview of a topic and lead you to other sources, it's essential to verify the information found there with more authoritative sources. 

Use Wikipedia as a starting point for your research, but rely on peer-reviewed journal articles and academic sources for in-depth analysis and evidence.

Tips for Assessing the Credibility of Online Sources

When using online sources, it's important to exercise caution and critically evaluate the credibility and reliability of the information you find. Here are some tips for assessing the credibility of online sources:

• Check the Domain Extension: Look for websites with domain extensions that indicate credibility. URLs ending in .edu are educational resources, while URLs ending in .gov are government-related resources. These sites often provide reliable and authoritative information.
• Look for DOIs (Digital Object Identifiers): DOIs are unique alphanumeric strings assigned to scholarly articles and indicate that the article has been published in a peer-reviewed, scientific journal. Finding a DOI can help you assess the scholarly rigor of the source.
• Evaluate the Authorship and Credentials: Consider the qualifications and expertise of the author or organization behind the website or blog. Look for information about the author's credentials, affiliations, and expertise in the subject matter.
• Consider the Currency and Relevance: Assess how up-to-date the information is and whether it aligns with the scope and focus of your research. Look for recent publications and timely analyses that reflect current trends and developments in the field.

Wrapping it up!

Finding sources for your research paper may seem like a challenge, but by following these steps, you can locate credible sources to support your arguments and enhance the quality of your paper. 

By approaching the research process systematically and critically evaluating the information you encounter, you can produce a well-researched and compelling research paper.

If you are struggling with finding credible sources or have time constraints, do not hesitate to seek writing help for your research papers . CollegeEssay.org has professional writers ready to assist you. 

Connect with our essay writing service now and receive expert guidance and support to elevate your research paper to the next level.

Cathy A. (Law)

For more than five years now, Cathy has been one of our most hardworking authors on the platform. With a Masters degree in mass communication, she knows the ins and outs of professional writing. Clients often leave her glowing reviews for being an amazing writer who takes her work very seriously.

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That’s our Job!

Keep reading

• Privacy Policy
• Cookies Policy
• Terms of Use
• Refunds & Cancellations
• Our Writers
• Success Stories
• Our Guarantees
• Affiliate Program
• Referral Program
• AI Essay Writer

Disclaimer: All client orders are completed by our team of highly qualified human writers. The essays and papers provided by us are not to be used for submission but rather as learning models only.

NEWS ALERT: MLB owners OK sale of Baltimore Orioles to group headed by billionaire David Rubenstein

Should college essays touch on race? Some feel the affirmative action ruling leaves them no choice

The Associated Press

March 27, 2024, 11:13 AM

• Share This:
• share on facebook
• share on threads
• share on linkedin
• share on email

CHICAGO (AP) — When she started writing her college essay, Hillary Amofa told the story she thought admissions offices wanted to hear. About being the daughter of immigrants from Ghana and growing up in a small apartment in Chicago. About hardship and struggle.

Then she deleted it all.

“I would just find myself kind of trauma-dumping,” said the 18-year-old senior at Lincoln Park High School in Chicago. “And I’m just like, this doesn’t really say anything about me as a person.”

When the Supreme Court ended affirmative action in higher education, it left the college essay as one of few places where race can play a role in admissions decisions. For many students of color, instantly more was riding on the already high-stakes writing assignment. Some say they felt pressure to exploit their hardships as they competed for a spot on campus.

Amofa was just starting to think about her essay when the court issued its decision, and it left her with a wave of questions. Could she still write about her race? Could she be penalized for it? She wanted to tell colleges about her heritage but she didn’t want to be defined by it.

In English class, Amofa and her classmates read sample essays that all seemed to focus on some trauma or hardship. It left her with the impression she had to write about her life’s hardest moments to show how far she’d come. But she and some classmates wondered if their lives had been hard enough to catch the attention of admissions offices.

This year’s senior class is the first in decades to navigate college admissions without affirmative action . The Supreme Court upheld the practice in decisions going back to the 1970s, but this court’s conservative supermajority found it is unconstitutional for colleges to give students extra weight because of their race alone.

Still, the decision left room for race to play an indirect role: Chief Justice John Roberts wrote universities can still consider how an applicant’s life was shaped by their race, “so long as that discussion is concretely tied to a quality of character or unique ability.”

Scores of colleges responded with new essay prompts asking about students’ backgrounds.

When Darrian Merritt started writing his essay, his first instinct was to write about events that led to him going to live with his grandmother as a child. Those were painful memories, but he thought they might play well at schools like Yale, Stanford and Vanderbilt.

“I feel like the admissions committee might expect a sob story or a tragic story,” said Merritt, a senior in Cleveland. “I wrestled with that a lot.”

Eventually he abandoned the idea and aimed for an essay that would stand out for its positivity.

Merritt wrote about a summer camp where he started to feel more comfortable in his own skin. He described embracing his personality and defying his tendency to please others. But the essay also reflects on his feelings of not being “Black enough” and getting made fun of for listening to “white people music.”

Like many students, Max Decker of Portland, Oregon, had drafted a college essay on one topic, only to change direction after the Supreme Court ruling in June.

Decker initially wrote about his love for video games. In a childhood surrounded by constant change, navigating his parents’ divorce, the games he took from place to place on his Nintendo DS were a source of comfort.

But the essay he submitted to colleges focused on the community he found through Word is Bond, a leadership group for young Black men in Portland.

As the only biracial, Jewish kid with divorced parents in a predominantly white, Christian community, Decker wrote he felt like the odd one out. On a trip with Word is Bond to Capitol Hill, he and friends who looked just like him shook hands with lawmakers. The experience, he wrote, changed how he saw himself.

“It’s because I’m different that I provide something precious to the world, not the other way around,” wrote Decker, whose top college choice is Tulane, in New Orleans, because of the region’s diversity.

Amofa used to think affirmative action was only a factor at schools like Harvard and Yale. After the court’s ruling, she was surprised to find that race was taken into account even at public universities she was applying to.

Now, without affirmative action, she wondered if mostly white schools will become even whiter.

It’s been on her mind as she chooses between Indiana University and the University of Dayton, both of which have relatively few Black students. When she was one of the only Black students in her grade school, she could fall back on her family and Ghanaian friends at church. At college, she worries about loneliness.

“That’s what I’m nervous about,” she said. “Going and just feeling so isolated, even though I’m constantly around people.”

The first drafts of her essay didn’t tell colleges about who she is now, she said.

Her final essay describes how she came to embrace her natural hair. She wrote about going to a mostly white grade school where classmates made jokes about her afro.

Over time, she ignored their insults and found beauty in the styles worn by women in her life. She now runs a business doing braids and other hairstyles in her neighborhood.

“Criticism will persist,” she wrote “but it loses its power when you know there’s a crown on your head!”

Ma reported from Portland, Oregon.

The Associated Press’ education coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP’s standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org .

Copyright © 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.

Related News

Looking at a solar eclipse can be dangerous without eclipse glasses. Here’s what to know

The British royal family learns that if you don’t fill an information vacuum, someone else will

AP PHOTOS: Beijingers play fetch with migratory birds in traditional game

Recommended.

'All hands on deck': Divers plunge in search of 6 workers feared dead after Baltimore bridge collapse

'It was like a knife in my heart': WTOP speaks with the company that captured the Key Bridge collapse

MLB owners unanimously approve sale of Baltimore Orioles to a group headed by David Rubenstein

Related categories:.