This guide answers the question: “Should you add a title to your Common App essay?”
- Learn what experts say
- See what current students think
- Understand pros and cons
- Get tips on whether to use a title
- Know how IvyPlug helps improve your essays
1. The Simple Answer from Experts
Most experts agree: you don’t need a title for your Common App essay.
CollegeVine says:
“A title for your Common App essay is not necessary… Admissions officers are mainly focused on the content, your writing style, and what the essay says about you.” :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
College Transitions also agrees:
“You do not need a title for your Common App essay. With such a limited word count, a title will add little to your composition.” :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
BigFuture (College Board) adds:
“You don’t need to include a title, which will only take up extra space.” :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
2. Why Experts Advise Against a Title
- Saves word count: Title words count against your 650-word limit.
- Space is limited: Every word should reveal something meaningful about you.
- Focus on content: Admissions staff want your story, not a catchy heading.
- Formatting issues: Adding a title could break layout or look odd online.
College Vine notes that titles rarely add value, and may disrupt formatting or waste precious words :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.
3. What Students Say
On Reddit, students share their opinions:
“No need for a title. Read through it at least twice after pasting it into the box to ensure formatting didn’t screw up anything major.” :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
“Titles make it sound like you’re presenting it rather than just saying what is meaningful to you… They give off an air of taking yourself too seriously.” :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Another student imagines how a story with a title might feel.
“A title can be a giveaway for it and kill the suspense and impact of the ending.” :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
These comments echo the expert advice: skip the title and let your essay speak for itself.
4. When Could a Title Work?
Some experts say a title is okay if it truly adds value:
- If it makes a clever connection to your story
- If your essay needs it for style, like using a mock‑newspaper or creative setup
- Only add it at the very end—once your essay feels complete and concise :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
But remember:
- It must be short (4–10 words max)
- It mustn’t distract from your story
- Make sure it fits formatting after pasting
CollegeVine suggests that unless it genuinely improves your essay, leave it out :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.
5. Pros and Cons
| Pros of a Title | Cons of a Title |
|---|---|
| Can add framing or a creative hook | Uses word count that could deepen your story |
| Might reflect your style or humor | May disrupt formatting online |
| Sometimes needed if essay is a mock style | Can seem pretentious or unnecessary |
6. How to Decide for Yourself
- Write your essay first, without a title.
- Revise the draft: Make sure it is clear, personal, impactful.
- Check word count: You have up to 650 words—keep most of them for story.
- Reflect on adding a title: Does it truly help? If unsure, skip it.
- If adding a title: Make it short, meaningful, and check final formatting.
- Test formatting: Paste into Common App portal and preview how it appears.
7. Title or No Title – Quick Guide
- ESSAY FORMAT: No title needed unless it adds real value.
- WORD COUNT: Title counts—so using it may shorten your story.
- CONTENT FOCUS: Admissions care about what you say, not what you call it.
- STYLE OPTION: If your essay uses a special format that needs a heading, go ahead.
- FINAL TEST: Paste into portal, preview, and get feedback from someone else.
8. How IvyPlug Can Help You
Worried about essay titles, word count, or storytelling? IvyPlug supports you in all areas:
- Title review: We help you decide if a title is helpful.
- Draft guidance: We shape your story for clarity and impact.
- Word-max optimization: We trim unnecessary parts to keep your essay strong under 650 words.
- Formatting checks: Ensure your essay looks perfect when pasted.
- Final polish: Grammar, tone, personal insight all refined.
9. FAQs
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is a title allowed? | Yes, but not required and it counts toward word limit. |
| Will a title affect my chances? | No—unless it hurts content or formatting. |
| What if I already wrote a title? | Consider removing it and using the words in your story. |
| What if my essay style needs a title? | It’s okay if it fits naturally and improves your message. |
| Who decides if a title helps? | You and your reviewers should test if it adds meaning. |
10. Final Thoughts
You don’t need to put a title on your Common App essay. Most experts and students say skip it—your words matter more. A title uses your limited word count and may mess with formatting. Only include one if it truly strengthens your essay and adds to your message.
If you’re unsure, work on your main draft first. Then, if you think a title adds something important, make it short, test it carefully, and get feedback. But remember—your story is what matters most.
For help with essay drafting, trimming words, formatting, and deciding about titles, IvyPlug offers expert guidance at every step. Start strong, stay focused, and let your voice shine.
Good luck with your Common App essay—title or no title, keep it real.