Writing Sample

[figuringout]

Hi,

A few schools ask for a writing sample in their application procedure. What are they going to use this for? What kind of writing are they looking for?

I have a paper in a different area (IS) which was my first real paper, but which has been accepted at a decent known conference. I am thinking of putting that up - though I am worried that it is not rigorous enough or that I have made style errors.

Any advice? Should I put up some other essay that I wrote? Skip uploading a doc altogether?

[chimerical]

You want to show off your analytical and research skills, so choose a paper that showcases that. A conference paper would probably qualify, even if it's in another field.

[AdsCPA]

Does a published research paper, done with two of my professors, is find to send as writing sample ?

[chimerical]

You can check with the school to make sure, but I'd say probably not. You should be the sole author of your writing sample. Otherwise it will be difficult for the adcom to parse out your contribution/effort from your professors'.

[dusklife]

I'd say definitely not. The purpose of a writing sample is to assess your own writing skills and by sending in a paper with two other authors this isn't possible. It probably wouldn't 'hurt' you so to speak (assuming the sample is optional), but if you are trying to impress an adcom by showing your superior writing ability then the research paper won't do it.

If you truly have nothing else of value though and are required to submit a sample, it's much better than not uploading anything.

[Ancalagon The Black]

I contacted several schools to ask them about just this issue and they mention that any kind of journal paper/ conference paper / thesis / project report/ technical report / article even with multiple authors but with you as first author is perfectly acceptable.