how to start off an observation essay

Observation Essay

Observation essay generator.

To properly observe something, you need to make use of all your five senses. Paying attention to all the details and being level-headed is a must. That said, a lot of effort goes into the act of observing something. The data gathered in your observation, whatever it may be, is necessary. Therefore you should write an observation essay and share your findings with the readers. 

10+ Observation Essay Examples

1. writers observation essay.

Size: 25 KB

2. Essay on Observation Theme

Size: 70 KB

3. Alternative Observation Essay

Size: 11 KB

4. Observation Essay Template

Size: 74 KB

5. Participant Observation Essay

6. Narrative Teaching Observation Essay

Size: 107 KB

7. Rehearsal Observation Essay

Size: 80 KB

8. Earth Observation Student Essay

Size: 103 KB

9. Clinical Observation Reflection Essay

Size: 28 KB

10. Basic Observation Essay

Size: 30 KB

11. Classroom Observation Essay

What Is an Observation Essay?

An observation essay is a piece of academic essay that incorporates the observer’s perspective over a situation, event, behavior, phenomenon, and even a person. In this document, the writer should state everything he or she directly noticed on the subject. In addition, they can also use first-person narration in this paper.

How to Write a Well-Versed Observation Essay

Whether you are a student writing an essay of your observation for a school assignment or educational research , or maybe a professional conducting a business analysis , you should compose it critically. The findings you present in your observation essay could be necessary to your field or industry. To keep it professional and informative, incorporate appropriate elements and organize it properly. 

1. Follow Guidelines

If there are guidelines provided, ensure to read them beforehand. The list usually includes instructions regarding the format, the length, essential questions, the structure, and the deadline. To avoid forgetting the items to remember, you can secure a checklist beforehand. These details will act as your guide and will set the limits for your essay writing . 

2. Devise an Outline

Considering that you already finished observing, take out your notes, and start constructing your outline. Consider basing its structure on the guidelines. You should decide what information goes on in a particular paragraph and organize it to be comprehensive to the general readers. You can save your energy by researching sample blank outline templates online instead of starting from scratch.

3. Compose Your Thesis Statement

Write your thesis statement in your introduction. After writing your hook and engaging your readers, it is now time to state what the essay will discuss. What did you observe? What are the general idea and nature of your essay? Your thesis statement will act as the central idea of your descriptive writing. Its length must only be one sentence. 

4. Close With a Detailed Conclusion

After presenting the main ideas and supporting your claims, you should provide a conclusion statement that would sum it all up. In the last paragraph, you should restate the thesis statement and explain how all of these ideas are relevant to each other. Your conclusion should link back to the idea in your introduction.

How do you observe something properly?

The practice of observing is necessary for writing field reports of studies, especially in science and psychology. When you do an observation of something, it is advisable to research the subject you are studying. Also, you need to focus on your visual and hearing senses and your thought process. Avoid or get rid of factors that can distract you.

What are the different methods of observing?

The various methods of observing are categorized based on the level of involvement of the observer with the subject. If an observer is not noticed or personally seen by the participants, then he or she is employing the complete observer method. On the other hand, if the subjects recognize and interact with the observer, the implemented method is observer as participant.

How should you note your observations?

The first step in taking field notes of your observation is, write down the necessary details of the subject. Also, you should include the time and place. In writing your findings, you should stay objective and factual. Also, don’t forget to write a description of the setting and the materials involved.

The readers of your observation essay are not present at the time you did your observation. An observation essay is effective if its content is enough to supply information that would make the readers feel as if they are personally present at that time. Secure an observation essay, and earn an award certificate from your school or your work. 

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

Discuss the behavior of animals at a zoo and what it reveals about them in your Observation Essay.

Reflect on the atmosphere of a music concert you attended in your Observation Essay.

How to Write an Observation Essay: Observation Paper Guide and Observation essay Example

• Dr. Huey Logan
• December 8, 2023
• Study Guides

What is an observational essay

Definition of an observational essay, types of observational essays, main components of an observational essay, how to start writing an observation essay, choosing an observation topic, gathering information through observation, creating a strong thesis statement, observation essay structure, writing the introduction paragraph, organizing the body paragraphs effectively, concluding an observation essay, tips for writing an effective observation paper, using descriptive language, incorporating the five senses, observation essay examples and topics, 20 observation essay topics for college, reviewing observation essay examples, creating an observation essay outline.

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to write an observation paper . Whether you’re a student looking to enhance your writing skills or an individual interested in honing your observation skills , this guide will provide you with valuable insights and tips on how to create a compelling and descriptive observation paper .

Here's What You'll Learn

Observation essay example

Write an observation essaytoggle, key takeaways.

• Recording observations, interpreting notes, and organizing them are crucial processes in writing an observation paper .
• Be mindful of important details such as date, time, and locality when taking field notes.
• Use qualitative and descriptive language to convey your observations effectively.
• Structure your observation paper around a research question and employ a clear and plain writing style.
• An observation essay focuses on diligently observing and describing the subject, without requiring analysis or problem-solving.

Now that you have a glimpse of what this guide will cover, let’s dive deeper into the definition and goals of an observation essay in the next section.

Understanding the Definition and Goals of an Observation Essay

An observation essay is an academic paper that focuses on making detailed observations and providing a rich description of objects, events, natural phenomena, or individuals. Unlike other types of essays, an observation essay does not require analysis or problem-solving. Instead, it aims to immerse the reader in the observation by diligently describing the subject.

When writing an observation essay, it is essential to employ vivid language and present tense to create a sense of immediacy and realism. By using descriptive and sensory details, the writer can effectively engage the reader and transport them into the observation itself.

The structure of an observation essay typically follows a standard essay format, consisting of an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion . In the introduction, the writer provides background information about the observation and presents a clear thesis statement. The body paragraphs serve as a platform for presenting the observations in a logical and organized manner, supported by relevant details and examples. Finally, the conclusion restates the thesis and offers a reflection on the overall observation, leaving the reader with a lasting impression.

Tips for Writing an Effective Observation Essay

In order to write an effective observation essay, there are a few key tips to keep in mind. First and foremost, choose a subject that truly fascinates you. Writing about something you are genuinely interested in will make the entire process more enjoyable and will also help you to stay engaged throughout.

When it comes to actually observing the subject of your essay, use all of your senses to create a vivid and detailed picture. This will not only make your writing more immersive for the reader, but it will also help you to capture the essence of what you are observing. Whether it’s sights, sounds, smells, tastes, or textures, paying attention to these sensory details will elevate your observation essay to the next level.

Another important tip is to apply the present tense in your writing. By using the present tense, you can create a sense of immediacy and make the events you are describing feel more real. This will help to engage the reader and make them feel as though they are experiencing the observation firsthand.

Lastly, be attentive to details and draw on your personal experiences. Including specific and unique details in your essay will make it more interesting and immersive for the reader. Additionally, sharing your own personal experiences and reflections throughout the essay will add depth and authenticity to your writing.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your observation essay is engaging, descriptive, and effective in capturing the essence of your subject.

Table: Tips for Writing an Effective Observation Essay

In conclusion , mastering the art of writing an observation essay requires honing your writing skills and employing effective descriptive writing techniques. By following the tips provided in this guide, you can enhance your ability to capture the details of your observations and engage your readers.

Writing Skills: Writing an observation essay allows you to develop and showcase your writing skills . Through diligent practice, you can improve your ability to convey your observations in a clear and engaging manner, effectively communicating your experiences to your audience.

Descriptive Writing: Descriptive writing is essential in an observation essay. By utilizing vivid language and sensory details, you can transport your readers into the scene, immersing them in the events and making your essay more captivating.

Conclusion: In conclusion, an observation essay is a powerful tool for exploring and sharing your observations. By selecting a subject that interests you, applying present tense, and structuring your essay in a logical manner, you can effectively convey your observations and leave a lasting impression on your readers.

What is an observation essay?

An observation essay is an academic paper that involves making observations and providing a detailed description of objects, events, natural phenomena, or individuals.

What should be included in an observation essay?

An observation essay should include vivid descriptions, use of present tense, personal experience, and attention to detail.

How should an observation essay be structured?

An observation essay should follow a standard essay structure, including an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

What is the goal of an observation essay?

The goal of an observation essay is to diligently observe and describe the subject without analysis or problem-solving.

Does this Look Like Your Assignment? We Can do an Original Paper for you!

Have no time to write let a subject expert write your paper for you​, have a subject expert write for you, have a subject expert finish your paper for you, edit my paper for me, have an expert write your dissertation's chapter, popular searches.

• Company Overview
• How it Works
• Client Reviews
• Discount Codes
• Privacy Policy
• Frequently Asked Questions

Knowledge Base

• All Writing Guides 
• Nursing Essay Writing Guides 
• Topics Ideas
• Nursing Guides
• Business Analysis Guides
• Literature Guides 
• Write My Essay 
• Do My Essay
• Pay For Essay
• Buy Research Paper 
• Buy Essays 
• Get Nursing Papers
• Online Nursing Papers

Writing Tools

• Citation Generator
• Topic Generator
• Thesis Generator
• Sentence Rewriter
• Title Page Generator
• Research Paper Title Generator

Use our resources and guides to write perfect papers. You can use our writing service and order customized sample papers without plagiarism!

Thestudycorp.com helps students cope with college assignments and write papers on various topics. We deal with academic writing, creative writing, and non-word assignments.

All the materials from our website should be used with proper references. All the work should be used per the appropriate policies and applicable laws.

Our samples and other types of content are meant for research and reference purposes only. We are strongly against plagiarism and academic dishonesty.

• The Main Observation Essay Peculiarities to Observe
• Writing an Observation Essay Made Easy

Definition & Goals

Paper structure, introduction, body paragraphs, observation paper writing tips.

• Observation Essay Topics

Help with Observation Essay

Global Education Monitoring Report by UNESCO states that the total youth literacy rate in Egypt is 63. How did the organization come up with this conclusion? The answer to this question is observational statistics .

If you want to learn how to write an observation essay, you should know how to carry out the research. This article will provide you with some good topics for an observation essay, its definition, tips on writing, and a vision of this paper’s structure. As another option you can always ask a professional essay writer for help!

To define, an observation essay is a paper based on remarks and findings of an individual, group of people, or a specific event . The goal is to describe your observations on a particular theme using many details. Remember that it is not a research paper.

Write your observation essay in the   present tense , creating an impression of keeping in touch with the event as if the reader was in the described place or writer’s reality. Sharing feelings and pointing out the notes on the event make the paper more realistic and engaging.

If your instructions do not specify the writing style, choose out of the available formats accepted in any college or university: MLA, APA, Chicago/Turabian, AMA, Harvard or ASA format essay . The choice depends on the academic level and field of study. Select a style with the most formal structure. The majority of writing formats contain the following elements:

• Title/Cover page
• Indents requirements
• Page numbers
• Bibliography page

As for technical requirements, composing an observation essay, the author needs to write in the   first person . Such an essay’s structure is usually similar to the other essays: introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. 

A decent introduction consists of a hook, background information, and a thesis statement. An essay hook is a sentence or two aimed at catching the reader’s attention to persuade them to carry on reading. Use a subtle joke, informative statistics, exciting facts, or a challenging question, and the reader will more likely proceed reading the rest of your essay. 

Make sure to visit our blog on how to write a hook for an essay  to create an irresistible opinion essay introduction.

Provided background information will create a total understanding of what the paper is about. The reader will be able to catch the main idea and the content of such a text. The author should be concise and not reveal too many details in the introduction.

The thesis statement most often is a 2-clauses sentence that highlights the main idea of the text. It raises questions and prepares the reader for its development in body paragraphs. The thesis in an observation essay could be a general impression from a subject of observations.

Traditionally, there’s no absolute measurement of how long your text should be. But generally, such a type of paper consists of 3-5 body paragraphs . However, don’t hesitate to specify the amount with your tutor.

Body paragraphs are given to you for disclosing the topic , i.e., developing the thesis statement, providing the reader with arguments and facts on the pros and cons of certain ideas. Writing an observation essay, you can use more figurative language to make your text more immersive.

Also, an observation essay’s purpose requires the writer to use the first person while writing.

The last part of your essay ‒ which usually is 1 paragraph ‒ is the easiest to perform. In conclusion, you need to analyze how you developed the thesis statement, provide the shortest ever overview of your arguments and ideas, and finish the text in a way that makes the reader think of it. Are you looking for an essay conclusion template ? Read our guide.

Writing an observation essay, you should be more attentive to details: mark how a particular journalist or professional writer plans and structures the recent articles discussing the current events. Daily news events could play a role of an excellent observation essay example to study.

Let’s review some of the tips regarding an observation essay:

• Write an observation essay outline if you are stuck with no idea how to start. Include the details like the number of paragraphs, specify headings, create a thesis statement, highlight main points and issues to cover. It is always a good idea to break down your task into pieces when working on the essay template . 
• Write down three to five good ideas that you will try to defend in your work on a separate paper sheet. Every page must contain the sound, smell, touch, image, and taste of the chosen subject. Keep in mind that you’re not writing a descriptive essay. 
• Present the scene, theme, and mood of the observation essay in your introduction. The scenery will be a good fit as the hook for your reader from the opening lines. 
• Fill the body paragraphs with numerous observational details and evidence to support the main argument. Feel free to use figurative language as you need to immerse a reader into your view on the subject. But be attentive while writing, not to fall into  descriptive essay examples . 
• End your observational writing with a conclusion that leaves a powerful impression on a reader. Reflect on the paper’s thesis statement, list the main arguments and reasons for the further discussion of the subject, and provide some forecasts.
• Use personal experience to meet the paper’s criteria. Working on data & facts shared by other people does not make a legitimate observation essay. 
• In case you use quotations, devote the last page to references . List all the cited works with the rights reserved to make your text free of plagiarism and avoid potential problems with intellectual property. 

Observation Essay Topics 

The list of observation essay topics can be endless – choose the one carefully based on the latest events in the cinematography, literature, music, or entire world. Read through the checklist on how to select a topic for an observation essay:

• Stick to the topic that excites you . Why spend your life on things that make you unhappy when there’s an option to avoid them? Moreover, the final text will be way more attractive for readers if you fill it with your interest in the topic. 
• Do a little research . It is crucial to choose the most appropriate angle of your paper. The research will also help you to narrow your topic down and make it more informative. 
• Write about familiar things . It is easy to make your paper inappropriate if you try to present a new topic while writing.
• Observe the recent news in different human activity fields to create a list of great topics on a separate page.
• Attend an event to get inspired . Include such details as who attended the event, why people organized that event, the meeting’s goals and place, and how it enriched your personal/professional experience.

If you still encounter difficulties with the choice, take a look at the shortlist of good observation essay topics to pick the best writing idea:

• Why do I find punctuality important?
• The movie I never get tired to re-watch
• Do I value honor more than material goods?
• Three simple ways to get rid of the depression
• Music is the best therapy in many life situations
• What sort of gift I believe is the best for my mom?
• The way we behave is the mirror of our personality
• The role of freedom in the life of the average American citizen

Congratulations on completing reading an ultimate guide on how to write an observation essay. In case you feel you lack writing experience or have some questions regarding your writing assignment be it an observation essay, a synthesis paper or an exploratory essay , feel free to get help from the professionals without leaving your home! Keep in mind that our writing services are at your disposal round the clock. Contact us, place your order, get a perfect paper, and make the best impression on your teacher and classmates!

Informative essay writing is not as simple as it might seem. You should inform the readers about the peculiarities of the topic. However, it should be done in a bias and opinion free manner. To master the art of informative essay writing, read the article. In it you will find writing tips, see a wel...

An effective rhetorical text should pull strings. When composing a rhetorical analysis essay, an essay writer should recognize these strings and explore what makes the text convincing. While most students care about the reader's involvement, none of that works if textual analysis lacks critical aspe...

Being proficient at writing essay hooks is a vital skill to master for students in academic writing. It will be harder to make your readers get excited to read your essays without it. Suppose that you have produced some reliable content to present. Still, if you miss using a strong attention grabber...

Questions? Call us: 

Email: 

• How it works
• Testimonials

Essay Writing

• Essay service
• Essay writers
• College essay service
• Write my essay
• Pay for essay
• Essay topics

Term Paper Writing

• Term paper service
• Buy term papers
• Term paper help
• Term paper writers
• College term papers
• Write my term paper
• Pay for term paper
• Term paper topic

Research Paper Writing

• Research paper service
• Buy research paper
• Research paper help
• Research paper writers
• College research papers
• Write my research paper
• Pay for research paper
• Research paper topics

Dissertation Writing

• Dissertation service
• Buy dissertation
• Dissertation help
• Dissertation writers
• College thesis
• Write my dissertation
• Pay for dissertation
• Dissertation topics

Other Services

• Custom writing services
• Speech writing service
• Movie review writing
• Editing service
• Assignment writing
• Article writing service
• Book report writing
• Book review writing

Popular request:

How to write an observation essay answer’s here.

February 20, 2020

Struggling to write your first ever observation essay? If this is the case, you definitely need our help! In this blog post, we will explain what this academic paper is, how to get a good example, and how to write the essay quickly using an easy-to-understand structure. It doesn’t matter if you are tasked by your professor with writing a courtroom observation essay or a child development observation essay.

Just follow our advice and you’ll do a wonderful job. Of course, it goes without saying that you need to do the research yourself, even if it’s just a classroom observation essay you have to write.

What Is an Observation Essay?

Let’s start with the beginning. What is an observation essay? The simple answer is that it is just a piece of direct investigation. You need to observe something (an event, a person, a situation, a concept, or even an area) and then describe it as meticulously as possible. However, things tend to get a bit complicated when it comes to actually writing the paper. Why?

Because even when writing a seemingly simple child observation essay, you need to describe everything as vividly as possible. You need to provide a sensory experience to the reader, which is by no means an easy thing to do. Your observational skills and attention will be put to the test, and so will your observation essay writing skills.

Need an Observation Essay Example?

You probably don’t know much about observational writing. And this is precisely why you need the best observation essay example you can find. Don’t be afraid to contact an academic writing company for one. Even if you’ll have to pay a couple of dollars for a top quality example, this is money well spent. Here is why observation essay examples really matter:

• You will see exactly how a professional writer describes every small detail. Providing a detailed sensory experience to your readers can be difficult without a good example.
• You get to see how such an academic paper is structured. Yes, you can use the same structure for anything, including a preschool observation essay.
• You can quickly understand what you need to pay attention to. You will also probably learn that using first-person singular pronouns is frowned upon in academic writing.
• You will learn how to paint a picture with your words. You’ll learn how to engage all of your audience’s senses by describing smells, colors, sounds, shapes, and even images.

Examples of Nice Observation Essay Topics

Reading even one excellently written children observation essay can greatly improve your odds of getting an A+ or at least an A. However, keep in mind that the observation essay topics you choose also have a great impact. The topic and the thesis statement are usually the first thing your professor sees. Capture his or her attention from the first second and you’ll most definitely get some bonus points. To help you out as much as possible, here are some topics that we consider excellent for 2020:

• Here is why I admire my math teacher the most. (this is a great observation essay on a person)
• Why do children hate school so much?
• What does money mean to us?
• I just found a new restaurant in the city.
• Treating arthritis with geriatric physical therapy. (a fine choice for a physical therapy observation essay)
• Do video games really change our behavior?
• Let’s talk about the recent baseball game.
• How does bullying affect its victims?
• Are animals at the Zoo sad? (excellent choice for a naturalistic observation essay)

How to Write an Observation Essay in 5 Paragraphs?

Of course, you can write about anything you like – if your professor has not assigned you a specific topic. But how do you write an early childhood observation essay the right way? Learning how to start an observation essay can make the difference between working on the paper for 4 days and finishing it in just 2. Here is how you write an observation essay in just 5 paragraphs:

• The introduction. You need to introduce the topic and provide a bit of background information about it. Also, don’t forget to include the thesis statement in the first or second phrase. Alternatively, open your intro with a peculiar fact or an anecdote and include the thesis statement afterwards.
• Three body paragraphs. Remember, all your observations should be vividly described in just 3 paragraphs. Yes, even if you’re writing a preschool child observation essay. Each paragraph should cover one main supporting argument. Focus the entire paragraph on just one important observation and describe it to your readers as best as possible.
• The conclusion. You don’t need a lengthy final paragraph. The body paragraphs already described the subject in great detail. The background information has been included in the introduction. The conclusion should restate your thesis statement, followed by a summary of the three important points you’ve discussed in the body of the paper. Wrap everything up with a call to action and the essay is done!

Well, not exactly done; you still need to edit your work and proofread it thoroughly. Why risk getting a lower grade just because of a couple of typos? Make sure your infant toddler observation essay is written perfectly and you will get a very good grade for your hard work.

Pro Tip: Use an Observation Essay Outline

Now you know why an example is good for you and you also know how to write an observation essay quickly. To wrap everything up, we want to tell you about the one thing that will help you immensely. When it comes to writing an observation essay, there is nothing better than a good essay outline. Really, an outline will prove invaluable regardless of the topic you are writing about (including a daycare observation essay).

But how do you create an exceptional observation essay outline? To write the essay, you will need to carefully observe the subject. You will, of course, take extensive notes during the observation period. To create the observation essay outline, you just need to organize your notes and find the most important aspects you wish to talk about. Keep in mind that an outline is quite similar to a table of contents. It’s the skeleton upon which you build your observation essay. It goes without saying that writing such a complex paper without a good outline won’t end well for the student who attempts it.

Read a good example, find an intriguing topic, start your writing with an outline, and make effective us of the five paragraph essay. That’s all you need to write an observation essay worthy of an A+.

Take a break from writing.

Top academic experts are here for you.

• How To Write An Autobiography Guideline And Useful Advice
• 182 Best Classification Essay Topics To Learn And Write About
• How To Manage Stress In College: Top Practical Tips  
• How To Write A Narrative Essay: Definition, Tips, And A Step-by-Step Guide
• How To Write Article Review Like Professional
• Great Problem Solution Essay Topics
• Creating Best Stanford Roommate Essay
• Costco Essay – Best Writing Guide
• How To Quote A Dialogue
• Wonderful Expository Essay Topics
• Research Paper Topics For 2020
• Interesting Persuasive Essay Topics

Observation Essay: Example and Tips

If you want to leave an unforgettable impression on the reader, when writing an observation essay, you might need experience of experts. Read the article below to learn how to write an observation essay and see examples of all three parts of the essay.

What are the features and qualities, which differ observation essay from other types of essays? Observation essay is close to the narrative one with the mandatory element: the author must tell about his personal experience. In the observation essay, it is not enough to write statistical data and facts borrowed from other sources. Author must reflect his thoughts, events of his life or observations he made. Without that feature, the essay may not be considered an observation essay.

• 1 Example of topics for observation essays
• 2.1 Example of introduction to observation essay. Topic “How I left everything and started traveling”
• 3.1 Example of main part to observation essay
• 4.1 Example of observation essay conclusion
• 5 Final actions when writing observation essay

Example of topics for observation essays

• How I left everything and started traveling (used as example)
• Influence of videogames
• Does the music cure?
• Role of money in modern life
• How to become a leader?
• Success in sports equals success in life
• My reflection of the world around
• Work of a teacher as I see it

Writing introduction to observation essay

There are two possible cases connected with the choice of the topic. If the topic was given by the teacher, you have no need to explain it. But if the topic was open and you made the choice yourself, you need to substantiate why exactly this topic deserves your attention. Such an explanation may be a good introductory part of the observation essay.

Pay attention to the size of structural parts of the essay. Introduction of observation essay should take about 15-20 percent of the entire work. This amount of words must be enough to make the reader want to read your narration and know you better. Using a quote of a famous person may also be used as catchy element of the introduction.

This essay presents my true story about how I decided to leave everything and start traveling. How I argued with my parents and solved problems with the authorities. How an ordinary trip to Asia has become for me a symbol and solid soil, which helped me not change my mind and bring it to the end.

Example of introduction to observation essay. Topic “How I left everything and started traveling”

What to do when you want to quit everything and leave to travel? In the era of social networks, the Internet is full of appeals to quit everything and go to another city, country, to travel. There are many stories about people who left the family and went on a round-the-world trip to find themselves and their path.

In this essay, I do not want to condemn anyone, I do not want to talk about the correctness or wrongness of the decisions of people who abandoned everything. I will not talk about various financial opportunities and social inequality. I just want to tell you my story of escaping from the office.

The story began just like that:

– “When we get home, I’ll quit my job,” I told my friend.

– Come on.

– “I’m serious,” I said, and turned my face to the warm rays of the Thai sun.

Writing main part of observation essay

After laying the foundation of the story telling in the introduction, move on to the main part of observation essay. All the thoughts, events and ideas must be described in this structural unit. It is the biggest part in the amount of words and takes about 65 percent of the total volume of the paper.

In case of short observation essay, main body consists of three paragraphs, where the author presents three separate ideas. All of them should be confirmed. The main rule of writing the body of observation essay is that it should be personal and based on personal experience of the author.

Example of main part to observation essay

It was the year 2004, and we spent a vocation on Koh Samui. We just arrived from Chiang Mai, where I met five travelers who inspired me to a nomadic life. I was under the strongest impression of their way of life. No stuffy offices and gossiping colleagues, no traffic jams and boss, is not it a fairy tale? I wanted to live like that. Moreover, I seriously intended to change my life. I even began to prepare for this serious step while still in Thailand, although I had no idea what to do and where to start.

While we were relaxing at the beaches of Koh Samui, I bought a guidebook from Lonely Planet in Southeast Asia. Then I did not even know where I wanted to go, from where on the map I decided to start my experience as a traveler, not as a tourist. I only knew that everything is cheap and it is warm in Asia. After buying the guidebook, my idea grew out of the rank of empty dreams into something more real. It was then that I suddenly realized that, in fact, I can really change my life. This thing played the role of a point of no return. Now the usual guidebook has become for me a symbol, confirming the firmness of my intentions.

I read every page in this little book when I got home. I marked out the place which I would like to visit, planed the routes, and already mentally gathered for the road. By the time our plane landed at JFK, I knew all about travels in Asia.

Nevertheless, after returning home, I realized that I have no idea how to turn my dream into reality. Thousands of questions swarmed through my head. How much money will I need? When can I afford such a long trip? What will my parents say? Do I need a return ticket? Which card is better to take with you? Is it safe to live in a hostel? The list of questions seemed endless, and in 2004, without numerous airplane ticket searchers, travel blogs, phone applications and other modern travel planning aids, it was somewhat more labor-intensive than it is now.

The hardest thing was to tell my family, friends and acquaintances that I was going on a long-term journey. I do not remember in detail the conversation that I had with my parents, but they took my decision quite coldly. By that time, they had become accustomed to my impulsive ideas, which were not uncommon but rarely turned into reality, and were ready to parry all my arguments fully armed. Their main argument was the statement that the world is a dangerous place and they will be very worried for me.

Since I had time in advance, I had enough time to drip on their brains. Nevertheless, I think that they did not believe in the seriousness of my intentions till the last moment and tried all the time to dissuade me. But once I’ve decided, I’ll bring it to life. I’m so stubborn.

Unlike the story with the parents, I remember the conversation with my boss to the smallest detail. It happened just a couple of months after my return from Thailand. During this time, I became more and more strengthened in the idea of ​​abandoning everything and leaving to travel. I even got some confidence that I really could do it. I knew that I would leave.

On that memorable day, I went to the office of my boss, told him that I wanted to talk to him, sat in a chair opposite and announced my intention to leave work. After meeting and talking with travelers, I firmly decided to see the world before I seriously take up my career. This was my first job, and I worked there for only 8 months. He began to object to me, saying that it was difficult to find a suitable candidate for my post so quickly. To which I replied that I did not want to leave right now, and asked for another six months. I remember his incredulous tone, with which he asked me: “Are you sure?”. I said: “I’m sure” and at the same moment I felt that there was no turning back.

In a sense, that day, I left not only work but also the life that I could live. I betrayed the parent idea about my future, about a good career, family, home, car and all the other things that make up the concept of “successful life”. I almost physically felt my life slipping, and I was not ready for it. I then thought that maybe I made a mistake, perhaps, life is not so bad. But I knew that I was unhappy. In my 24 years, I worked 50 – 60 hours a week, saved up for a car and planned that the next 40 years of my life would be about the same. I never liked this way of life, but it’s the way all normal people live, right?

Writing conclusion part to observation essay

The word Conclusion itself suggests that the author’s aim here is to conclude and sum up everything that has been said in the previous parts of the observation essay. In the final part, ideas are generalized, while in the main part every particular one is described.

The volume of the conclusion in observation essay is about 15-20 percent of the total paper. It should be equal or a little bigger than the introductory part.

Read the example of conclusion of observation essay to get an idea of how it should be written.

Example of observation essay conclusion

My trip to Thailand has shown me that life is not only a corporate meat grinder from 9 to 20. If such a way of life fits most people, then I’m sincerely happy for them. On the day when I announced my boss my intention to leave, I saved myself from a way of life that I never truly loved. And so, when I finally could afford to go out on the big road in search of adventure in 25 years, I still was not ready for it. I twisted in my head the cowardly thought that upon returning home I will immediately return to “normal life”, but this did not happen. After a while, the gap between me and the business world became too great.

Sometimes the decisions that we make in life are transformed for us into a tsunami, which demolishes the whole old way. So, if you are tormented by the question of how to leave everything and start a new life, just make a decision and make at least some real step towards change. Such serious changes never happen quickly at the click of a finger, they mature for a long time in our minds, they require a lot of preparation time. Still, we live in a fairly inert reality. Having made the decision to leave work, I left not only the office, but also my old way of life. But in return I found my own path, one that pleased me and never regretted the decision I made.

Final actions when writing observation essay

The first thing you do when getting the task of writing observation essay, is choosing the topic. After that, you prepare the outline of the future paper and think of the content of each structural part: introduction, main part and conclusion.

When the writing is finished, the work of the author is not done yet. There comes the time for proofreading and editing. Experts recommend taking a several days break and only after that get back to work. Read attentively the observation essay and correct grammar and lexical mistakes. Check the paper for typos and useless meaningless information. Delete everything that does not change the overall picture of the observation essay.

📕 Studying HQ

How to start an observation essay for nursing students: a complete guide, carla johnson.

• October 5, 2023
• How to Guides

Observation essays are a valuable tool for nursing students to develop their clinical skills and enhance their ability to communicate their findings effectively. These essays require students to observe and reflect on real-life patient interactions and experiences carefully. Through this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to start an observation essay. Whether you are new to this assignment or seeking to improve your skills, this comprehensive guide will assist you in crafting a compelling and insightful essay.

What You'll Learn

Understanding the Purpose of an Observation Essay

Before diving into the practical aspects, it’s essential to grasp the purpose of an observation essay in nursing education. These essays serve several key objectives:

• Developing Observation Skills: Observation essays train students to become keen observers of patient behavior, symptoms, and healthcare interactions.
• Critical Thinking and Reflection: They encourage critical thinking by requiring students to analyze and reflect on their observations, leading to a deeper understanding of patient care .
• Effective Communication: Writing an observation essay helps nursing students practice communicating their findings, a vital skill for healthcare professionals.
• Personal Growth: These essays foster personal and professional growth by promoting empathy, compassion, and a holistic approach to patient care.

Choosing Your Observation Setting

Selecting the right setting for your observation essay is crucial. Consider the following factors when making your choice:

• Clinical Placement: Often, observation essays are based on experiences during clinical placements. Choose a clinical setting that aligns with your learning objectives and interests.
• Informed Consent: Ensure that patients or individuals involved in your observation have given informed consent. Respect their privacy and confidentiality .
• Diversity of Cases: To gain a well-rounded perspective, aim to observe a variety of patient cases, from different age groups, conditions, and healthcare settings.

Observing with Purpose

Effective observation is the cornerstone of a successful observation essay. Here are some tips to guide your observations:

• Prepare Beforehand: Familiarize yourself with the patient’s medical history , condition, and treatment plan. This background knowledge will help you focus on relevant details during your observation.
• Use a Structured Approach: Create a checklist or template to ensure you cover key aspects during your observation. Include sections for patient behavior, healthcare team interactions, and environmental factors.
• Take Detailed Notes: During your observation, take clear and concise notes. Include specific actions, conversations, body language, and any other relevant information.
• Stay Objective: Strive to maintain objectivity during your observation. Avoid making assumptions or judgments based on your personal beliefs or biases.

Structuring Your Observation Essay

Now that you have gathered your observations, it’s time to structure your essay effectively. A well-structured essay makes it easier for readers to follow your narrative:

• Introduction: Begin with a captivating introduction that sets the stage for your observation. Briefly introduce the patient, the clinical setting, and the purpose of your essay.
• Patient Background: Provide essential information about the patient, including their age, gender, medical history, and reason for being in the healthcare setting.
• Observation Narrative: This is the heart of your essay. Organize your observations in a chronological or thematic order. Describe the patient’s behavior, interactions with healthcare providers , and any significant events or changes you noticed.
• Reflection: After presenting your observations, reflect on what you witnessed. Discuss the implications of the observed behaviors and interactions, and how they relate to the patient’s care or the healthcare system in general.
• Lessons Learned: Share any valuable insights, lessons, or new perspectives you gained from the observation. Reflect on how this experience has contributed to your growth as a nursing student.

Writing Style and Tone

Maintaining a suitable writing style and tone is essential in nursing observation essays:

• Clarity: Write in a clear and concise manner. Avoid jargon and ensure a wide audience easily understands your descriptions.
• Professionalism: Maintain a professional tone throughout your essay. Use appropriate language and terminology.
• Empathy: Show empathy and respect for the patient and healthcare providers in your narrative. Highlight the human aspects of healthcare.

 Proofreading and Editing

Before submitting your observation essay, take the time to proofread and edit it thoroughly. Check for the following:

• Grammar and Spelling: Correct any grammatical and spelling errors. Use a grammar-checking tool or seek assistance from a peer if needed.
• Clarity and Flow: Ensure your essay flows smoothly from one section to another. Verify that your ideas are presented logically.
• Citations and References: If you use any external sources, make sure to cite them correctly in your chosen citation style (e.g., APA, MLA).

Writing an observation essay as a nursing student can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. It enhances your observation skills and contributes to your growth as a healthcare professional. You can create a well-structured, insightful, and impactful observation essay by following the steps and guidelines outlined in this comprehensive guide.

If you find yourself struggling with writing your observation essay or any other academic assignment, remember that assistance is available. Our professional writing services are here to support you in your academic journey. Contact us today to receive expert guidance and ensure your essays are of the highest quality. Your success is our priority, and we are committed to helping you excel in your nursing education.

1. How do you introduce an observation?

• To introduce an observation, begin with a brief description of the setting, context, and the subject of your observation. Clearly state the purpose of your observation in a concise and engaging manner to capture the reader’s attention.

2. How do you write an observation essay sample?

• Start by selecting a specific observation experience. Then, follow a structured approach by providing background information on the subject, describing your observations in detail, reflecting on your findings, and concluding with key takeaways and insights.

3. What is an example of a statement of observation?

• An example of a statement of observation could be: “During my clinical rotation in the pediatric ward, I observed a 5-year-old patient exhibiting signs of distress, including rapid breathing and restlessness, while waiting for a medical examination.”

4. What is the structure of an observation essay?

• The structure of an observation essay typically consists of an introduction, patient background information, a narrative of your observations, a reflective section, and a conclusion. This structure allows for a clear and organized presentation of your observations and insights.

Start by filling this short order form order.studyinghq.com

And then follow the progressive flow. 

Having an issue, chat with us here

Cathy, CS. 

New Concept ? Let a subject expert write your paper for You​

Have a subject expert write for you now, have a subject expert finish your paper for you, edit my paper for me, have an expert write your dissertation's chapter, popular topics.

Business StudyingHq Essay Topics and Ideas How to Guides Nursing

• Nursing Solutions
• Study Guides
• Free College Essay Examples
• Privacy Policy
• Writing Service 
• Discounts / Offers 

Study Hub: 

• Studying Blog
• Topic Ideas 
• Business Studying 
• Nursing Studying 
• Literature and English Studying

Writing Tools  

• Citation Generator
• Topic Generator
• Paraphrasing Tool
• Conclusion Maker
• Research Title Generator
• Thesis Statement Generator
• Summarizing Tool
• Terms and Conditions
• Confidentiality Policy
• Cookies Policy
• Refund and Revision Policy

Our samples and other types of content are meant for research and reference purposes only. We are strongly against plagiarism and academic dishonesty. 

Contact Us:

📧 [email protected]

📞 +15512677917

2012-2024 © studyinghq.com. All rights reserved

Advertiser Disclosure

How we make money, what is an observation essay, our promise to you.

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy , ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

Editorial Standards

At Language & Humanities, we are committed to creating content that you can trust. Our editorial process is designed to ensure that every piece of content we publish is accurate, reliable, and informative.

Our team of experienced writers and editors follows a strict set of guidelines to ensure the highest quality content. We conduct thorough research, fact-check all information, and rely on credible sources to back up our claims. Our content is reviewed by subject matter experts to ensure accuracy and clarity.

We believe in transparency and maintain editorial independence from our advertisers. Our team does not receive direct compensation from advertisers, allowing us to create unbiased content that prioritizes your interests.

An observation essay is a paper written after watching a person, group, or event. This essay is typically written in the first person as an account of historical events witnessed by the writer. It provides a detailed descriptive account of an event or activity and should include a detailed account of theme, mood, and scenery. The length of this essay varies, but is typically 1,500 or more words.

Observation essays have been used throughout history in many types of literature. These are stories that provide a first-hand account of an event. Many journalists use the observation essay format to report daily news events. This provides the reader with a descriptive account of the scene, which makes the story come to life.

An observation essay should be written in the present tense. It should provide details of feelings felt by the writer while he observed the event. These human experiences make the essay more understandable and realistic.

The opening paragraph of an observation essay should set the scene, theme, and mood for the paper. This paragraph should define the what, where, and when for the story. It is the opportunity to entice the reader with enchanting scenery and actions that grab the reader’s attention.

A critical theater review is an example of an observation essay based on a movie, show, or a theatrical play. This review is designed to inform the reader on the quality of play and characteristics of the show. This type of essay is designed to paint a picture of the general atmosphere and experiences felt by the crowd during the show.

A story that is written with the voice of a narrator is an example of an observation essay. In this type of first-person writing, the reader becomes the spectator of the story, watching the events unfold while he reads each word. This makes the story more compelling to read because it is based on events that were witnessed by the author.

An observation essay should including clear, descriptive language. The story should include details about what the writer felt while he was watching the event. This typically includes descriptions on the weather, smells, temperature, and colors found in each scene. No detail is too small in a observation essay because it makes the story more lifelike.

Related Articles

• What Is a Profile Essay?
• What Are the Different Types of Essays?
• What Is an Exemplification Essay?
• What is a Personal Essay?
• How can I Write a Strong Essay?

Discussion Comments

Language & humanities, in your inbox.

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

• Assignment Help
• Buy a Research Paper
• Buy an Essay
• Complete Coursework for Me
• Custom Essay Writing
• Write My Essay
• Write My Thesis
• Dissertation Writing Services
• Book Reports Online
• Essay Writing Service
• Cheap Essay Writing Service
• College Essay Writing Service
• Research Paper Writing Service
• Research Paper Help
• Assignment Writing Service
• Coursework Writing Service
• Coursework Help
• Statistics Homework Help
• Write My Research Paper
• Term Paper Writing Service
• Buy Coursework
• Thesis Editing Services
• Custom Thesis Writing Service
• Thesis Writing Help
• Buy Thesis Paper
• How we work
• Testimonials
• Contact Us 24/7 1-305-529-3642 My account

How to write an observation essay: Detailed Instructions

Over the course of your academic study, you will be given many different assignments, one of which may turn out to be an observational essay. We will tell you how to write an observational paper, and provide you with a few tips on how to make more engaging for the reader.

Answer the "What is an Observation Essay" Question

In reality, it is one of the easiest and the most interesting academic assignments. However, some students may get confused about the requirements for such an essay because they are used to writing analytical papers.

Useful Observation Essay Tips

Before we begin describing the structure, formatting and other aspects of an observation essay, we would like to give you some observation essay tips on how to make this essay stand out from the rest.

#1 Choose the object of observation that fascinates you. You wouldn't want to spend hours or even days observing something, or someone, whom you are not very fond of. If you were assigned the topic for the observation essay, try to focus on the point that may interest you and use it as a cornerstone for your description. For instance, if you were told to write an observation essay about the representative of a particular subculture such as street artists, while you are not fond of them as individuals, try to focus your observations on their artistic works, not their personalities.

#2 Use all your senses to create a more vivid picture of the things that you observe. Don't limit your observations to just looking at things or people. Try to touch these things, smell or even taste them; engage in a prolonged conversation with people whom you are observing, find out more about their personalities and then watch their behavior while having a better understanding of their inner world. It will help you get an entirely different perspective on the object or the subject and make your observation essay much more vivid and engaging.

#3 Try to apply present tence. This way you will allow the readers to perceive the events that you describe in the essay as if they are unfolding right before them, thus improving the engagement and the interest in the depicted event or object.

Observation essay structure: Coherent and well-grounded

Being asked to write such an academic paper many students get slightly confused because they are not really sure about how to structure an observation essay. They think that since it doesn't require the traditional set of academic writing skills, the structuring should also be unconventional. In reality, the structure of an observation essay is not different from the format of any other academic paper. It must have the following parts:

• Introduction

If you don't know how to start an observation essay, well, the answer is quite obvious: start it with the introduction. It is the part where the author has to get the reader acquainted with the object or the event that he or she intends to describe in the essay. This introduction should be succinct but informative, not drawing the reader's focus from the actual observation process.

You must never forget that the observation essay introduction must also include a thesis statement. However, unlike other essays, the thesis statement in an observation essay shouldn't support or deny any arguments or contain any strong statements for that matter. It would be sufficient to say why this observation is important for your field of academic study and what methods you used when conducting it.

Just like in any other academic paper, the observation essay includes from one to five paragraphs. Each of those should be logically connected with each other and form a complete picture of an event or an object that you have been describing. Try to put as much information as possible in each paragraph and make your description vivid and detailed. Don't just limit yourself to describing the overall appearance of the object or the things that happened during the event. Write about what you feel when you make the observations. Look for details which are not apparent for the ordinary viewer.

In your observation essay conclusion, you must rephrase and restate your thesis statement and then describe your overall impression regarding the process of observation and the event or the subject that you have been observing. Again, there is no need to make any strong statements, just tell the reader that you enjoyed making an observation. Basically, that is all you need to know about how to end an observation essay.

Observation essay format styles

In most cases, observation essays are written using MLA as it is the most popular and the most appropriate formatting style for this writing assignment. However, your teacher may ask you to prepare the paper applying APA or Chicago style for your observation essay format. Nevertheless, it shouldn't pose a problem since observation essays don't require plenty of quoting and references.

Observation essay outline: See the structure clearly

Frequently, you will be asked to write an outline for observation essay. In case you don't know how to do it appropriately, we will gladly provide a good example of the observation essay outline.

• Observation of human behavior during protests
• The behavior of people may change radically during different stages of protest
• How I joined the protest event called Occupy Wall Street
• How people behaved at the initial stages of the protest
• How their behavior changed when they confronted the representative of a large trading firm
• How passers-by reacted to the protesters
• The thoughts about the overall experience
• What make people so agitated when they participate in protests

vmagazinespain.com

6 suggestions on how to start an observation essay properly.

They way you start your essay to a large extent, determines how motivated your target readers would be the moment they open the first page of your academic paper. This is why it is important that you understand how to start an observation essay. Your readers will mostly be motivated by the type and level of information they are able to find at the beginning of your academic paper. There is a variety of ways to effectively start your academic paper. However, if you don't feel like writing it and still asking where can I buy custom essays online , you should look no further because US essay writers is the best service to turn to.

The strategy you choose when starting your observation essay depends mostly on what works for you. With that said, here are six suggestions on how you can appropriately start your observation essay. They are as follows:

17% OFF on your first order Type the code 17TUDENT

• Start With A Few Short Sentences: This means going straight to the point without beating about the bush. Although you do not need to start with “This essay is all about...”, you have to be specific about what your paper is about, with your thesis written as briefly as possible. It is not the length that matters but how informative your content is.
• Pose A Question: Yes, you read right. You can start your essay by posing a question. However, you should make sure that this question is closely related to the topic of your paper. You can either answer the question yourself or let your readers’ imaginations run wild as they ponder over the answer to the question.
• State An Interesting Fact: This is another unique way of writing any naturalistic observation essay. There are one or more facts you might know about nature which can include humans, animals, plants, and our immediate environment. It is possible that not a lot of people know this fact. Using this same fact to start your paper will awaken the interest of most of your target readers, being that they might not have heard or even read about this fact.
• Start With A Description: Being an observation essay, there is definitely a setting for your story. You can arouse the curiosity of your target readers by describing the main setting of your academic paper. Describe some of the things that were found there, in such a way that your readers can almost see and feel them. This way, you can be sure of taking them along with you in your line of thoughts.
• Bring The Past To The Present: This can be a form of relishing an experience or event from the past. In order to make it more interesting, you can relate the event to your target readers as if it is happening right there and then. This method has a way of holding your target readers spell-bound as they want to find out what happened in the end.
• Adopt The Delay Strategy: With this particular strategy, you don’t hand out everything from the beginning of your paper. Let us assume you are writing a child observation essay. You can systematically put off identifying the subject of your paper for the time being. In using this strategy, make sure you don’t hold this off for a long time so that your readers are not frustrated and decide not to read further. You don’t want this to happen.

These are some of the suggestions that a good number of students have found very helpful when it comes to properly starting their observation essays. If you choose to, you can also recount an incident that adds more drama to your academic paper. If you need further help in getting your essays right, try this site .

• Poverty essay ideas
• Custom writing help

How to Write an Observation Essay

Observation Essay Writing

Writing an observation essay requires special writing skills and a lot of imagination. In contrast with most types of essays, an observation essay should contain personal observations, impressions and a conclusion corresponding to them. The main goal of your observation essay will be to describe your feelings and perception of a given object, event, or personality. Your teacher requires you to demonstrate your watchfulness, creativity and logical consistency.

What is an Observation Essay?

Hence, an observation essay is an amalgamation of a short story, personal diary, and an academic paper. Firstly, it describes a situation that you were involved in, or a story told by another person; secondly, it contains personal and subjective feelings; and thirdly, it still has to follow some logical rules in order to arrive at a general conclusion. All these features should be included, otherwise, the observation essay would be a failure.

An observation essay is an amalgamation of a short story, personal diary, and an academic paper. Tweet This

You should pay attention to several principles which may improve the style and the contents of your observation essay.

How to Write an Observation Essay – 5 key principles

1. find an object, event or personality that has recently impressed you.

Try to describe your latest impressions only. If you are assigned writing an observation essay, don’t hesitate; choose a situation that has happened in the last few days.

2. Focus your attention on the details which make this situation stand out

Answer the following questions: 

• What is so interesting about the situation?
• Is it a situation which often happens to you, or this has been your first time?
• Do other people experience the same situation in the same way as you do? (this question means that you have something very interesting to say, which no one has ever said before, or has noticed before).

3. Employ literary devices in your observation essay

In the observation essay use such literary devices as metaphors, symbols, analogies, etc. Try to show your respect for language. Use rich vocabulary and avoid repetitions. Make sure to inspire yourself. Try to imagine that you are experiencing the situation in question again. Try to make the feelings stronger and start writing down everything that comes to your mind. Thus, your observation paper will be filled with emotions and passion, and will seem more attractive. However, don’t rely too much on emotions, be careful!

4. Generalize

The event that you depict in the observation essay is never a one-time event in the history of mankind. Try to find analogies with other cases or occurrences. Is there any theory that could argument it? Can you interpret it within the framework of a given conception? For instance, if you observe the behavior of a person at a given moment, can you explain it from a psychologist viewpoint?

As an option, you can refer to a given theory in the introduction of the observation paper and to exemplify it with the situation described in the essay. Thus, it will be easier for the reader to catch your thought and to follow the observation essay.

5. Contextualize

Do not forget to put your situation in context, i.e. to inform the reader about the place and time of the situation, about people involved, and other important facts which will make interpretation easier.

Keeping all these tips in mind, try to demonstrate your creativity and ability to depict an interesting situation. Be yourself, write personally and you will be rewarded by the reader’s attention, and perhaps by a good grade.

Do you need help with writing an observation essay?  

Order Paper

Our guarantees, customer feedback.

© 2024 SolidEssay. All Rights Reserved.

Powered by Data Researchers Network

• ECEC Mystery Box ➯

Early Childhood

• • All Early Childhood
• • Long Day Care
• • Preschool
• • Kindergarten
• • Family Day Care
• • Occasional Care
• • Calendars
• • Children's Journals
• • Indigenous Resources
• • Duplicate Books
• • Posters and Cards
• • Custom Designs
• • Printables
• • Educational Leader
• • Nominated Supervisor
• • Programming and Reflection
• • Directors, Office Admin
• ECEC Mystery Box
• Product Quiz
• How To Articles
• Ask a Customer
• Join Our Community
• Download e-Book
• Change Your Order
• Track Your Order
• Subscription Portal

A Guide to Writing Observations in Early Childhood Education

Butler Diaries @ Sep 18, 2023

The practice of documenting observations is a cornerstone in Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC). These observations serve multiple purposes, from mapping a child's developmental milestones to identifying their interests and skills. Moreover, observations lay the groundwork for effective programming and are instrumental in maintaining quality as delineated by frameworks like the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) and the National Quality Standards (NQS).

Importance of Observations

Observations are vital for creating a personalised learning experience for each child. They help educators discern the child's social, emotional, and cognitive development, as well as their learning styles. By comparing these observations against frameworks like EYLF and NQS, educators can design effective programs that adhere to recognised standards of quality and excellence.

Link to EYLF and NQS

The EYLF emphasises a vision where "all children experience learning that is engaging and builds success for life". Observations directly contribute to this by identifying what engages a child. Further, NQS, under Quality Area 1—Educational Program and Practice, highlights the necessity for educators to "base their programs on the interests and needs of each child."

The Process of Writing Observations

1. setting and timing.

The first step is choosing the right setting and time. Ideally, this should be a natural setting where the child feels comfortable and acts spontaneously. This could be a spontaneous experience or learning captured during a programmed experience.

Observations from a Variety of Sources

Observational data should be gathered from a diverse range of sources to build a more complete picture of each child's development and learning journey. While individual observations by an educator provide valuable insights, corroborating these findings with observations from peers, family members, and even the children themselves, can lend a more comprehensive view. Methods can range from direct observations and individual portfolios to input from family interviews and peer reviews. We help you capture a variety of observations using our Individual Observations Book and Children's Journals .

This multi-faceted approach aligns well with the EYLF's principle of 'Ongoing Learning and Reflective Practice', encouraging a holistic understanding of each child. It also resonates with NQS Quality Area 1, which encourages a 'cycle of planning' that incorporates a diverse array of observational sources. Use the  Individual Observations Book  and  Children's Journals  in conjunction with the Weekly Programming and Reflection Diaries to show your cycle of planning.

By employing a diverse range of observation sources, you ensure a richer, more nuanced understanding of each child's developmental needs and learning styles. This, in turn, enables you to create more targeted and effective programming. In this way, the observational process becomes not just a measure of where a child is at, but a roadmap for where they have the potential to go.

2. Objective Description

Focus on capturing an objective account of the event. Describe what the child is doing, saying, and any interactions they are having. Steer clear of personal opinions or interpretations at this stage. Here you are simply recounting what occurred. You can use quotes to capture children's verbal communication.

3. Reflect and Analyse

After capturing the raw observations, the next step is to reflect and analyse the data. This is where the frameworks like EYLF come into play. Align your observations with the Learning Outcomes outlined in this framework.

Suppose you observe a child engaged in a block-building activity. You note the following:

Objective Description: "Jamie carefully stacks blocks, counting aloud, 'One, two, three'."

Reflect and Analyse: This can be linked to EYLF Learning Outcome 4 — "Children are confident and involved learners" and Learning Outcome 5  — "Children are effective communicators."  

• In your reflection, you should also consider how you could build on Jamie's learning and how this observation contributes to what you know about Jamie as a whole.

What about Theorists?

An enriching layer of depth can be added to your observations by linking them to the work of educational theorists. This not only provides a conceptual foundation for your observations but also reinforces the pedagogical approaches in line with both EYLF and NQS. For example, if a child shows a proclivity towards imaginative play, you might link this behaviour to Vygotsky’s theory on the Zone of Proximal Development, suggesting that imaginative play is a key part of cognitive development. Or perhaps, a child showing significant autonomy in choosing activities can be linked to Erikson’s stages of psychosocial development, particularly the 'Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt' stage. Here is a cheat sheet that may help you, "Linking Theorists to the EYLF Outcomes."

Integrating theoretical perspectives into your observations is an effective way to demonstrate the deep understanding and meticulous approach you apply to Early Childhood Education and Care. It adds an extra layer of validation to your observations and shows alignment with Quality Area 1 of the NQS, which highlights the role of educational programs in stimulating and engaging the children's minds.

Incorporating theorists is not merely an academic exercise; it's a compass that guides educators in providing targeted and effective learning experiences. It's another step towards fulfilling our collective mission: to provide a nurturing environment where each child’s learning journey is not just documented, but celebrated.

The Key to Observations: Meaning

Observations in Early Childhood Education and Care are more than mere snapshots of a child's actions or utterances; they should offer meaningful insights into a child's developmental journey. Meaningful observations delve deeper into understanding a child's interests, strengths, and areas for growth. They should be relevant to both the child's immediate learning and their long-term development, and be capable of informing targeted, individualised programming.

Being meaningful also involves focusing on significant moments, not just interesting or entertaining ones. It means looking for patterns over time rather than isolated incidents, and aligning these patterns with the Learning Outcomes in the EYLF and Quality Areas in the NQS. This way, you’re not just observing to fulfil a requirement, but actively engaging in a process that has a meaningful impact on a child’s educational trajectory.

As you gather these meaningful observations, you are not only complying with standards but also demonstrating a dedication to the rich complexities of each child’s development. In capturing the essence of each child's journey, you're making a vital contribution to the field of Early Childhood Education and Care—ensuring that every experience is not just documented but deeply understood and celebrated.

Documenting Observations

Utilising the 'Butler Method', our specialised diary solutions can streamline this process for you. By integrating the EYLF and NQS frameworks into our documentation system, we make it easier for ECEC professionals to map out observations to specific Learning Outcomes and Quality Areas.

Use the  Individual Observations Book  and  Children's Journals  to capture your observations. These are designed to be used in conjunction with the  Weekly Programming and Reflection Diaries  that capture your program and show your cycle of planning. Educational Leaders can use the Educational Leader Diary to support educators in their documentation.

Final Thoughts

Writing observations in Early Childhood Education and Care is a nuanced task that requires meticulousness and dedication. When conducted correctly and backed by the guidelines laid down by EYLF and NQS, they become powerful tools for quality education and care.

By grounding your observation practices in these frameworks, you ensure that you are not just documenting a profession but celebrating it. With the right tools and knowledge, every child's unique journey can be recognised, nurtured, and celebrated.

For a more comprehensive guide and specialised diary solutions, please explore Butler Diaries. We are committed to making your professional experience in ECEC organised and streamlined, ensuring that your focus remains on the child's developmental journey.

Acknowledgement of Country

Butler Diaries acknowledges and pays respect to the past, present and future Traditional Custodians and Elders of this nation and the continuation of cultural, spiritual and educational practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Join the 17,000+ customers who have trusted Butler Diaries to help them in their roles.

Your cart is currently empty

You might like...

2024 Weekly Programming and Reflection Child Educator Diary

2024 OSHC Weekly Programming & Reflection Diary

Regular price   $ 49.99 Sale price   $ 29.99

2025 Early Childhood Cook's Diary - Hard Cover Spiral Bound

2024 Childcare Centre Diary

Regular price   $ 49.99 Sale price   $ 39.99

2024 Nominated Supervisor Diary

2024 Educational Leader Diary

Regular price   $ 49.99 Sale price   $ 41.99

2024 OSHC Diary

2024 Family Day Care Compliance Diary

2024 The Tradie Diary - Hard Cover

Regular price   $ 59.99 Sale price   $ 45.99

2025 Our Culturally Responsive Year Wall Calendar

2025 Our Sustainable Year Wall Calendar

2024 Central Outdoor Weekly Programming and Reflection Diary

2024 QLD Kindy Weekly Programming & Reflection Diary

Transportation Log Duplicate Book New Regs

Regular price   $ 44.00 Sale price   $ 39.95

The Yoga Story Deck

Regular price   $ 29.95 Sale price   $ 25.95

Programming and Reflection Printer Pack

Regular price   $ 66.00 Sale price   $ 29.95

Search our store

Popular searches.

2025 Children's Centre Diary - Hard Cover Spiral Bound

2025 Educational Leader Diary - Hard Cover Spiral Bound

2025 Family Day Care Compliance Diary - Hard Cover Spiral Bound

2025 OSHC Weekly Programming & Reflection Diary - Hard Cover Spiral Bound

2025 OSHC Diary - Hard Cover Spiral Bound

2025 QLD Kindy Weekly Programming & Reflection Diary - Hard Cover Spiral Bound

2025 Weekly Programming and Reflection Child Educator Diary - Hard Cover Spiral Bound

2025 Central Outdoor Weekly Programming and Reflection Diary - Hard Cover Spiral Bound

2025 Nominated Supervisor Diary - Hard Cover Spiral Bound

Incident, Injury, Trauma and Illness Record Triplicate Book

Regular price   $ 45.95 Sale price   $ 35.95

EYLF V2.0 Banner Pen - Box Set

Administration of Medication Record Triplicate Book

Regular price   $ 43.69 Sale price   $ 24.95

Your Wishlist

Your wishlist is currently empty

Let customers speak for us

Love this book. It guides educators in showcasing the children's learning in clear and creative ways. It brought back the passion for programming and learning I used to have. So easy to use too

Hi Kate, thanks so much for your wonderful review! We are so happy to hear we have helped reignite your passion for documentation!

Love this so much

Very nice resources

Very good resources