This document provides guidance on how not to write a college admissions essay. It discusses that the essay, along with extracurricular activities and short answers, allow applicants to stand out from their academic credentials alone. The document then covers topics like understanding the audience of admissions officers, using creative nonfiction techniques to tell a true story, and dos and don'ts for the essay. It includes sample essay prompts and provides a writing workshop for students to develop potential essay ideas.