How to improve Readability in MBA Application Essays

When an MBA Admission Committee member is reading hundreds of essays, one factor that allows applicants to stand out is the readability of their essay. The focus on readability began in early 1940s with Dr. Rudolf Flesch, who introduced the ‘The Flesch Formulas’ that factors in average sentence length and average word length in syllables. Subsequently, word processing softwares began integrating many readability formulas. Let us look at the factors that influence readability the most.

1) Average Sentence Length

Misplaced modifiers, run-on sentences, and pronoun reference errors arise in complex and long sentences. Keep the sentences short, but not too short that it loses its impact. If you have read early 19th century novels, you will realize what we mean. The sentences are too long, complex, and often require greater mental energy to comprehend even the simplest ideas conveyed by the author. It was considered a virtue to write in a complex or a seemingly intelligent manner. We don’t have the time to read complex sentence structures when we are used to instant entertainment, information, and food. The 30 something AdCom member has also lived in such an era. Moreover, they have a job to do – read hundreds of essays.

2) One Idea per Paragraph

This mantra has worked miracles for MBA applicants. By conveying an argument, idea, or opinion in one paragraph, you set the expectation for the AdCom. They are aware that the next paragraph would be about a new experience, or lessons learned, and not the same idea that you have already explained. AdCom will lose interest if you break the pattern. Therefore, be careful before you follow this rule. The pattern should continue throughout the essay. If you don’t want to follow this convention, split the essays into paragraphs based on average sentences per paragraph. 5-6 sentences per paragraph have worked out best for applicants. Be consistent, no matter which rule you follow.

Related: Winning MBA Essay Guide

3) Connectivity

Another challenge that MBA applicants face is how to use words and phrases that are required to maintain continuity in the essay. “However,” “In Addition to,” “Therefore” often works as a connecting word or phrase, but you can do away with these words if the essay is more conversational and less formal. A conversational tone works best in MBA application essays. The challenge arises when paragraphs demands continuity. The point-based division works out for an ebook like this, but in an essay, this might not work. You don’t have to worry too much if you have developed a habit of outlining your essay.

4) How to Outline

To outline an essay, you have to understand the purpose of the essay - the paragraph that answers the question, the paragraph that support your answer & the paragraph that reveal your motivation.
Once an applicant understands what is required, it becomes easier to outline the essay. For example, for the question “What is your greatest weakness and what are the necessary steps that you have taken to overcome it,” the applicant should outline the essay in the following paragraph structure:

Paragraph 1: Write about real weakness

Paragraph 2: How you realized about the weakness

Paragraph 3:  Steps, people, and influences that allowed you to overcome the weakness

Paragraph 4: What you learned about overcoming weakness, and why an MBA is necessary to overcome your functional weaknesses.

There are no set rules on whether you should maintain the same number of sentences in each paragraph. Some paragraphs, like paragraph 3 in the above example, require greater length as it considers several factors. 

By outlining, you have already taken into consideration the readability of the essay. This would go a long way in creating a winnable essay. Several other factors contribute towards creating an effective essay. We have covered over 100 Essay writing tips in our essay guide. Don’t forget to download it here.