The Common App is not one task. It is a collection of smaller information, writing and decision tasks. Overwhelm often decreases when the work is separated.
Start with the sections that do not require writing
Complete profile, family, education and testing information first. Make a list of anything that requires a parent, school counselor or transcript.
Separate the college list from the application
The student can work on core information while the family continues to refine the college list. Do not let one unresolved choice stop every other section.
Create an internal deadline
The submission deadline should not be the work deadline. Build time for review, technical problems and missing documents.
Next step: Use the kickoff checklist to identify what is ready and what information is still missing.
View the $75 kickoff