Writing Sample: What It Should Look Like and How to Craft the Perfect One

Introduction

A writing sample is a piece of writing that you submit as part of your job or college application. It is usually requested by employers or universities to evaluate your writing skills. The purpose of a writing sample is to demonstrate your ability to write clearly and effectively. It should be tailored to the specific job or opportunity you are applying for, and showcase your knowledge and expertise in the field.

An Overview of What Makes a Good Writing Sample

When crafting a writing sample, there are several key elements to consider. First, it should have a clear purpose. Your writing sample should serve to illustrate your writing skills and show how they would be beneficial in the role or program you are applying for. Second, the quality of your writing should be excellent. Make sure to proofread and edit your work, and use proper grammar and spelling throughout. Third, the length of your writing sample should be appropriate. Generally, a writing sample should be no longer than two pages. Finally, the content should be unique. Avoid plagiarism, and make sure the content is relevant and interesting.

Tips for Crafting an Effective Writing Sample

When creating a writing sample, there are several tips you can use to ensure it is effective. First, choose the best piece that showcases your skills. Select an example of your best writing that is tailored to the specific role or program you are applying for. Second, highlight your knowledge and expertise. Use your writing sample to demonstrate your understanding of the subject matter and your ability to communicate it effectively. Third, make sure the content is relevant. Your writing sample should be tailored to the specific job or opportunity you are applying for. Finally, use appropriate language and formatting. Use correct grammar and punctuation, and make sure the formatting is consistent.

Dos and Don’ts for Writing Samples

When crafting a writing sample, there are certain dos and don’ts you should keep in mind. Do proofread and edit your work. Make sure to check for typos and other errors. Do use proper grammar and spelling. Don’t use slang or colloquialisms. These terms may not be understood by everyone who reads your writing sample. Don’t plagiarize other people’s work. This is illegal and unethical, and will reflect poorly on your character.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Writing Sample

There are several common mistakes to avoid when creating a writing sample. First, don’t forget to follow instructions. Make sure to read all instructions carefully and adhere to them. Second, avoid poorly written content. Make sure to proofread and edit your work before submitting it. Third, don’t include overly long samples. Keep your writing sample to two pages or less. Finally, make sure the content is related to the job or program you are applying for. Unrelated content won’t help you stand out from other applicants.

Examples of Outstanding Writing Samples

To give you an idea of what an outstanding writing sample looks like, here are three examples. First, if you are applying for a job in journalism, you could submit a news article you wrote about a recent event. Second, if you are applying for a job in marketing, you could submit a blog post you wrote about the latest trends in the industry. Third, if you are applying for a college program in creative writing, you could submit a short story you wrote about a particular experience.

Conclusion

Writing samples are an important part of any job or college application. They should demonstrate your ability to write clearly and effectively, and should be tailored to the specific job or opportunity you are applying for. When crafting a writing sample, make sure to choose the best piece that showcases your skills, use appropriate language and formatting, and avoid common mistakes. With these tips, you can create a writing sample that will help you stand out from other applicants.