Admissions : it's not rocket science even if you are applying to MIT -- ABCs of essay writing and admissions success -- Introspection before self-expression -- From confusion to common voice -- Essayist as traditionalist, humorist, artist, or anarchist : which "ist" is it? -- Strategic thinking meets emotional expression -- Typical topics inspiring exemplary essays -- Samples and analyses -- A before-and-after review and comprehensive critique -- Dos, don'ts, and don't asks.