Get essay feedback

Overview

Fresh eyes make essays stronger! Here's how to get useful feedback on your drafts.

Who to Ask (2-3 Readers)

• English teacher: Writing quality, clarity, grammar
• School counselor: College application perspective
• Parent or trusted adult: Authenticity, whether it sounds like you
• Peer who knows you: Does this capture who you really are?

How to Get Useful Feedback

• Share with 2-3 readers (more gets confusing)
• Ask specific questions:
  • "Does this sound like me?"
  • "Is the main point clear?"
  • "Does the ending feel complete?"
  • "What parts are confusing?"
• Give readers a few days to respond thoughtfully

What to Do With Feedback

• Look for patterns — if multiple readers flag the same issue, address it
• Trust feedback about clarity and flow
• Be cautious about changes that alter your voice
• You're the author — take suggestions that improve your essay, skip those that don't

What's Acceptable vs. Not

Acceptable: Grammar corrections, clarity suggestions, questions that prompt deeper thinking

Not acceptable: Someone writing sentences for you, changes that make it sound unlike you