I think it’s a good idea. One of the admissions reps at Stanford called it a miss opportunity to not do the optional essays (aside from the diversity one, which depends on your circumstance).
... "usually", because I tailored my essays to each school based on ... have to spend on your essays, but its a good idea ... thinking broadly about what your essays should entail for all of ...
That it's going to take a long time, maybe months, to get through the forms and essays so give yourself a big time window, especially if you have other commitments.
... and went straight to my essays and applications. I had no ... entire application (personal statement, individual essays, resume, etc.) in about 40 ...