Frankenstein starts at the point (0; 0; 0) and walks to the point (3; 3; 3). At each step he walks either one unit in the positive x-direction, one unit in the positive y-direction, or one unit in the positive z-direction. How many distinct paths can Frankenstein take to reach his destination?
The hushed buzz of competing schools discussing possible solutions to the problem floods my eardrums as I attempt to concentrate on reading the question. Why Frankenstein does want to know how many ways he can arrive at his destination? He can only take one route. As I discuss the ways to solve the problem with my teammates, Edward, who reminds me of a character from Mean Girls, suggests in a trembling voice that we solve the problem using trial and error. I know, however, that trial and error would take too much time and that there is a better way to solve the problem. The ticking of the clock pounds in my eardrums as time winds down. We have exhausted too much time on this problem, and we are dreading hearing the bell that signals the end of the round, since we have spent so much time on this question. As I sort through the problem using the solution method that Edward suggested, my senses are suddenly enhanced: I can hear the conversations of other teams, feel the hexagonal ridges of my yellow pencil, and smell the sweat of me and my teammates. This problem caused a crisis for the team, and the general outlook on the competition of team members was bleak.
Mathematics is my favorite subject because of its focus on thought processes and problem solving techniques. Since I am a composed and explicit person, I enjoy the challenge of questions with unequivocal answers. My character's orderly side draws me enthusiastically towards precise solutions; my creativity gives rise to my acceptance of new ideas. All questions have definite answers; we just need to construct ways of reaching them. Linear reasoning is my preferred method of solving problems because the systematic sequence of formulas can be applied to many situations. It was through practice problem solving for the math team that I learned how to think linearly and efficiently, and I have relied on linear reasoning for most
mathematical quandaries. For that reason, my specialty in competitions is the set of logic problems in which linear reasoning can be applied.
During math competitions, I usually revert to linear reasoning and provide a unique perspective on the questions, but I am always open to different viewpoints and methods of solving them. To solve this problem, I utilized a method I had learned in math class. Linear reasoning could not be applied here, but I took heed of Edward's suggestion and solved the problem using a technique we had learned while in a math team meeting. I love math team because I am able to explore my interest in systematic reasoning and problem solving.
Any suggestion is appreciated. Also, I wanted to include the solution to the problem, but I ran out of space in the 500 character limit. Is it necessary to include that or even the problem?
I loved the way you used the vivid imagery in the beginning. It felt like I was there! You may want to specify the specific math competition you were in that included your experience with the "Frankenstein" problem. And in my opinion, you don't have to include the answer to the problem. I didn't think of what the answer was until you suggested placing it in the essay. So i guess that's a good thing! haha. But over all fantastic, very creative!
If you have a minute, can you look at my common app essay?
Hey, your beginning was terrific! It was very captivating. But one thing though, as I got towards the end, it started to get a little confusing. Make sure you know what the main focus of this essay is and stick with it. See at the end, you talk about your linear reasoning a great deal, and yet you end with I love math team. And also, try not to use the words linear reasoning so much. I almost felt a little suffocated by how many times you used it. Other than a little bit of the ending, the rest was great! Good luck! :)
Oh and if you could, please look at my essay. Thanks!
Hi. I think you have done s superb job with this essay! The only suggestion I have is that maybe you tie your love of mathematics to your goals for the future, what you hope to gain, and how these things reflect your character.
Good Luck!
In Pre-Calculus class, my teacher, Mr. Andrews, inspired my passion for mathematics through his problem solving exercises. Every Friday, my classmates and I would form teams and solve problems. Since he used problems from mathematical competitions, they were very complicated. I began to explore other problem solving opportunities on websites like "The Art of Problem Solving" . I became a perennial champion in these Friday contests.
You need to tie the third and fourth paragraphs together... maybe something like
Thus, mathematics is my favorite subject because of its focus on thought processes and problem solving techniques.
I really like this essay - innovative!
Can you critique the edited version of my essay?
