Oh random point of advice. The best advice I could actually give is that there is a frame of mind that is associated with Y Combinator. If you can get into that frame of mind, you'll be much more likely to gain acceptance.
The best way to get into that frame of mind is to consume as much information written by YC partners as you possibly can.
It's this strange blend of intellectual honesty and curiosity. Interesting thoughts are valued highly. It's a bit hard to explain but if you go read an article written by PG or Sam Altman and then go read your average startup-targeted article you'll be able to see the difference.
The best way to get into that frame of mind is to consume as much information written by YC partners as you possibly can.
It's this strange blend of intellectual honesty and curiosity. Interesting thoughts are valued highly. It's a bit hard to explain but if you go read an article written by PG or Sam Altman and then go read your average startup-targeted article you'll be able to see the difference.