A strong foundation allows your deeper insights to remain coherent.

: Start with a personal inclination or a feeling you are trying to figure out, rather than just a statement of fact. 2. Build the "Skeleton" Structure

: Look for the "meat" of the issue—a core tension or struggle that drives the narrative or argument.

: Every deep essay has two layers: the specific "personal" story and the "larger" universal connection or realization.

Depth is achieved by balancing big ideas with concrete details. 12 tips for writing better personal essays

: Draft a statement that includes a claim, cause, and effect. This will be your roadmap.

To put together a "deep" essay, focus on moving beyond surface-level facts to explore the and broader implications of your subject. 1. Establish a Core Tension