Examples in Writing (2)

[lcarboni8762]

This question is similar to one that was already answered but different. From what I understand using an historical example in the essays will provide for a higher score compared to a hypothetical example. What about personal examples? If there was an event in my life that I can relate to the question is this acceptable or should we stay away from personal experiences?

[mcat_premed3832]

To begin with, if you carefully examine the way the Writing Sample is scored, "style" points really come into play when you are trying to go from a 4/6 to a 5 or 6/6. The first 4 points (which is exceptable by the great majority of med schools) is all about just accomplishing the tasks: meaning historical vs. personal vs. hypothetical would make no difference as long as the example is specific and described well.

Having said that, in general, a historical example is more powerful followed by personal and then hypothetical. A personal example should, of course, be "socially acceptable" in the sense that you should not be uncomfortable writing it nor should you make someone uncomfortable reading it.

Sample corrected Writing Samples: www.futuredoctor.net/sample.shtml