Let’s set the scene. The crisp fall air has reminded you that winter is coming, so you’ve been toiling away at your common app essay is preparation for the submission of your early decision application. We hope you’re also working on your supplements! In any event, you keep coming back to your common app essay. It’s **almost** done, and the content looks good, but you need a title. The thought of choosing a title is scary, so you’ve put it off.

If this sounds anything like what you’re going through, welcome to the club. Nearly 100% of TKG clients struggle to think of a title for their common app essay. And for the record, we understand. Titling essays that we’ve spent weeks and/or months on can be difficult, and it feels like a huge decision. Keep reading for our advice on settling on something you’re happy with:

No matter what you call it, they’re going to read your entire essay. What does this mean? The title does not make or break, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try at all.
Your title should not encapsulate the entire essay. So if you write your common app essay about a small failure, you shouldn’t call it “What I Learned From My First Failed Business.”
Do not go for shock value. You might get noticed, but it won’t be in a positive way.
Consider using a phrase that appears somewhere in the essay.
Think about the theme of your essay. Is it about art? Your tenacious attitude? From there, try to figure what kinds of words and/or phrases align with the theme.
If you want your essay to evoke a general feeling, make a list of words around those emotions.

We suggest making a list of five titles and choosing your favorite from there. It’s important to keep in mind that the title of your common app essay counts towards the 650-word maximum, so steer clear of lengthy titles. To narrow down your list, read through your list of five and cut it down until you’ve settled on a favorite.

If you want to work with one of our writers, contact us here.