Final answer:
A personal essay should involve sharing personal experiences and insights while reflecting on personal growth or achievements. Topics to avoid include discussing money as a motivator, complaining about unfortunate circumstances, preaching to the reader, or focusing too much on sensitive issues unless they are connected to the essay's theme.
Step-by-step explanation:
A personal essay should entail a writer sharing their personal experiences and insights on a specific topic. It should showcase the writer's unique perspective and voice, while also providing a reflection on their personal growth or achievements. When writing a personal essay, it is important to avoid discussing money as a motivator, complaining about unfortunate circumstances, preaching to the reader, or focusing too much on sensitive issues like race, religion, sexuality, or class unless they are directly connected to the overarching theme of the essay.