steps in writing a reflective essay

• PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Happiness Hub Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
• Browse Articles
• Learn Something New
• Quizzes Hot
• Happiness Hub
• This Or That Game
• Train Your Brain
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow
• Log in / Sign up
• Education and Communications
• College University and Postgraduate
• Academic Writing

How to Write a Reflection Paper: An Easy-to-Follow Guide

Last Updated: June 6, 2024 Fact Checked

Sample Outline and Paper

Brainstorming, organizing a reflection paper, as you write, expert q&a.

This article was co-authored by Alicia Cook . Alicia Cook is a Professional Writer based in Newark, New Jersey. With over 12 years of experience, Alicia specializes in poetry and uses her platform to advocate for families affected by addiction and to fight for breaking the stigma against addiction and mental illness. She holds a BA in English and Journalism from Georgian Court University and an MBA from Saint Peter’s University. Alicia is a bestselling poet with Andrews McMeel Publishing and her work has been featured in numerous media outlets including the NY Post, CNN, USA Today, the HuffPost, the LA Times, American Songwriter Magazine, and Bustle. She was named by Teen Vogue as one of the 10 social media poets to know and her poetry mixtape, “Stuff I’ve Been Feeling Lately” was a finalist in the 2016 Goodreads Choice Awards. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 3,841,731 times.

Reflection papers allow you to communicate with your instructor about how a specific article, lesson, lecture, or experience shapes your understanding of class-related material. Reflection papers are personal and subjective [1] X Research source , but they must still maintain a somewhat academic tone and must still be thoroughly and cohesively organized. Here's what you need to know about writing an effective reflection.

How to Start a Reflection Paper

To write a reflection paper, first write an introduction that outlines your expectations and thesis. Then, state your conclusions in the body paragraphs, explaining your findings with concrete details. Finally, conclude with a summary of your experience.

• These sentences should be both descriptive yet straight to the point.

• For lectures or readings, you can write down specific quotations or summarize passages.
• For experiences, make a note of specific portions of your experience. You could even write a small summary or story of an event that happened during the experience that stands out. Images, sounds, or other sensory portions of your experience work, as well.

• In the first column, list the main points or key experiences. These points can include anything that the author or speaker treated with importance as well as any specific details you found to be important. Divide each point into its own separate row.
• In the second column, list your personal response to the points you brought up in the first column. Mention how your subjective values, experiences, and beliefs influence your response.
• In the third and last column, describe how much of your personal response to share in your reflection paper.

• Does the reading, lecture, or experience challenge you socially, culturally, emotionally, or theologically? If so, where and how? Why does it bother you or catch your attention?
• Has the reading, lecture, or experience changed your way of thinking? Did it conflict with beliefs you held previously, and what evidence did it provide you with in order to change your thought process on the topic?
• Does the reading, lecture, or experience leave you with any questions? Were these questions ones you had previously or ones you developed only after finishing?
• Did the author, speaker, or those involved in the experience fail to address any important issues? Could a certain fact or idea have dramatically changed the impact or conclusion of the reading, lecture, or experience?
• How do the issues or ideas brought up in this reading, lecture, or experience mesh with past experiences or readings? Do the ideas contradict or support each other?

• Verify whether or not your instructor specified a word count for the paper instead of merely following this average.
• If your instructor demands a word count outside of this range, meet your instructor's requirements.

• For a reading or lecture, indicate what you expected based on the title, abstract, or introduction.
• For an experience, indicate what you expected based on prior knowledge provided by similar experiences or information from others.

• This is essentially a brief explanation of whether or not your expectations were met.
• A thesis provides focus and cohesion for your reflection paper.
• You could structure a reflection thesis along the following lines: “From this reading/experience, I learned...”

• Your conclusions must be explained. You should provide details on how you arrived at those conclusions using logic and concrete details.
• The focus of the paper is not a summary of the text, but you still need to draw concrete, specific details from the text or experience in order to provide context for your conclusions.
• Write a separate paragraph for each conclusion or idea you developed.
• Each paragraph should have its own topic sentence. This topic sentence should clearly identify your major points, conclusions, or understandings.

• The conclusions or understandings explained in your body paragraphs should support your overall conclusion. One or two may conflict, but the majority should support your final conclusion.

• If you feel uncomfortable about a personal issue that affects the conclusions you reached, it is wisest not to include personal details about it.
• If a certain issue is unavoidable but you feel uncomfortable revealing your personal experiences or feelings regarding it, write about the issue in more general terms. Identify the issue itself and indicate concerns you have professionally or academically.

• Avoid dragging someone else down in your writing. If a particular person made the experience you are reflecting on difficult, unpleasant, or uncomfortable, you must still maintain a level of detachment as you describe that person's influence. Instead of stating something like, “Bob was such a rude jerk,” say something more along the lines of, “One man was abrupt and spoke harshly, making me feel as though I was not welcome there.” Describe the actions, not the person, and frame those actions within the context of how they influenced your conclusions.
• A reflection paper is one of the few pieces of academic writing in which you can get away with using the first person pronoun “I.” That said, you should still relate your subjective feelings and opinions using specific evidence to explain them. [8] X Research source
• Avoid slang and always use correct spelling and grammar. Internet abbreviations like “LOL” or “OMG” are fine to use personally among friends and family, but this is still an academic paper, so you need to treat it with the grammatical respect it deserves. Do not treat it as a personal journal entry.
• Check and double-check your spelling and grammar after you finish your paper.

• Keep your sentences focused. Avoid squeezing multiple ideas into one sentence.
• Avoid sentence fragments. Make sure that each sentence has a subject and a verb.
• Vary your sentence length. Include both simple sentences with a single subject and verb and complex sentences with multiple clauses. Doing so makes your paper sound more conversational and natural, and prevents the writing from becoming too wooden. [9] X Research source

• Common transitional phrases include "for example," "for instance," "as a result," "an opposite view is," and "a different perspective is."

• For instance, if reflecting on a piece of literary criticism, you could mention how your beliefs and ideas about the literary theory addressed in the article relate to what your instructor taught you about it or how it applies to prose and poetry read in class.
• As another example, if reflecting on a new social experience for a sociology class, you could relate that experience to specific ideas or social patterns discussed in class.

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.csuohio.edu/writing-center/reflection-papers
• ↑ https://libguides.usc.edu/writingguide/assignments/reflectionpaper
• ↑ Alicia Cook. Professional Writer. Expert Interview. 11 December 2020.
• ↑ https://www.trentu.ca/academicskills/how-guides/how-write-university/how-approach-any-assignment/how-write-reflection-paper
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/thesis-statements/
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/conclusions/
• ↑ https://www.anu.edu.au/students/academic-skills/writing-assessment/reflective-writing/reflective-essays
• ↑ https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/writingcenter/scholarlyvoice/sentencestructure

About This Article

To write a reflection paper, start with an introduction where you state any expectations you had for the reading, lesson, or experience you're reflecting on. At the end of your intro, include a thesis statement that explains how your views have changed. In the body of your essay, explain the conclusions you reached after the reading, lesson, or experience and discuss how you arrived at them. Finally, finish your paper with a succinct conclusion that explains what you've learned. To learn how to brainstorm for your paper, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

• Send fan mail to authors

Reader Success Stories

Stella Cheboi

Jul 22, 2016

Did this article help you?

Luz Gisela Perez

Nov 19, 2017

Apr 27, 2016

Debra Cust Bramble

Mar 20, 2016

Courtney Fulmer

May 22, 2020

Featured Articles

Trending Articles

Watch Articles

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info

Don’t miss out! Sign up for

wikiHow’s newsletter

• +44 (0) 207 391 9032

Recent Posts

• What Is an Internship? Everything You Should Know

How Long Should a Thesis Statement Be?

• How to Write a Character Analysis Essay
• Best Colours for Your PowerPoint Presentation: How to Choose
• How to Write a Nursing Essay
• Top 5 Essential Skills You Should Build As An International Student
• How Professional Editing Services Can Take Your Writing to the Next Level
• How to Write an Effective Essay Outline
• How to Write a Law Essay: A Comprehensive Guide with Examples
• What Are the Limitations of ChatGPT?
• Academic News
• Custom Essays
• Dissertation Writing
• Essay Marking
• Essay Writing
• Essay Writing Companies
• Model Essays
• Model Exam Answers
• Oxbridge Essays Updates
• PhD Writing
• Significant Academics
• Student News
• Study Skills
• University Applications
• University Essays
• University Life
• Writing Tips

A complete guide to writing a reflective essay

(Last updated: 3 June 2024)

Since 2006, Oxbridge Essays has been the UK’s leading paid essay-writing and dissertation service

We have helped 10,000s of undergraduate, Masters and PhD students to maximise their grades in essays, dissertations, model-exam answers, applications and other materials. If you would like a free chat about your project with one of our UK staff, then please just reach out on one of the methods below.

“The overwhelming burden of writing my first ever reflective essay loomed over me as I sat as still as a statue, as my fingers nervously poised over the intimidating buttons on my laptop keyboard. Where would I begin? Where would I end? Nerve wracking thoughts filled my mind as I fretted over the seemingly impossible journey on which I was about to embark.”

Reflective essays may seem simple on the surface, but they can be a real stumbling block if you're not quite sure how to go about them. In simple terms, reflective essays constitute a critical examination of a life experience and, with the right guidance, they're not too challenging to put together. A reflective essay is similar to other essays in that it needs to be easily understood and well structured, but the content is more akin to something personal like a diary entry.

In this guide, we explore in detail how to write a great reflective essay , including what makes a good structure and some advice on the writing process. We’ve even thrown in an example reflective essay to inspire you too, making this the ultimate guide for anyone needing reflective essay help.

Types of Reflection Papers

There are several types of reflective papers, each serving a unique purpose. Educational reflection papers focus on your learning experiences, such as a course or a lecture, and how they have impacted your understanding. Professional reflection papers often relate to work experiences, discussing what you have learned in a professional setting and how it has shaped your skills and perspectives. Personal reflection papers delve into personal experiences and their influence on your personal growth and development.

Each of these requires a slightly different approach, but all aim to provide insight into your thoughts and experiences, demonstrating your ability to analyse and learn from them. Understanding the specific requirements of each type can help you tailor your writing to effectively convey your reflections.

Reflective Essay Format

In a reflective essay, a writer primarily examines his or her life experiences, hence the term ‘reflective’. The purpose of writing a reflective essay is to provide a platform for the author to not only recount a particular life experience, but to also explore how he or she has changed or learned from those experiences. Reflective writing can be presented in various formats, but you’ll most often see it in a learning log format or diary entry. Diary entries in particular are used to convey how the author’s thoughts have developed and evolved over the course of a particular period.

The format of a reflective essay may change depending on the target audience. Reflective essays can be academic, or may feature more broadly as a part of a general piece of writing for a magazine, for instance. For class assignments, while the presentation format can vary, the purpose generally remains the same: tutors aim to inspire students to think deeply and critically about a particular learning experience or set of experiences. Here are some typical examples of reflective essay formats that you may have to write:

A focus on personal growth:

A type of reflective essay often used by tutors as a strategy for helping students to learn how to analyse their personal life experiences to promote emotional growth and development. The essay gives the student a better understanding of both themselves and their behaviours.

A focus on the literature:

This kind of essay requires students to provide a summary of the literature, after which it is applied to the student’s own life experiences.

Pre-Writing Tips: How to Start Writing the Reflection Essay?

As you go about deciding on the content of your essay, you need to keep in mind that a reflective essay is highly personal and aimed at engaging the reader or target audience. And there’s much more to a reflective essay than just recounting a story. You need to be able to reflect (more on this later) on your experience by showing how it influenced your subsequent behaviours and how your life has been particularly changed as a result.

As a starting point, you might want to think about some important experiences in your life that have really impacted you, either positively, negatively, or both. Some typical reflection essay topics include: a real-life experience, an imagined experience, a special object or place, a person who had an influence on you, or something you have watched or read. If you are writing a reflective essay as part of an academic exercise, chances are your tutor will ask you to focus on a particular episode – such as a time when you had to make an important decision – and reflect on what the outcomes were. Note also, that the aftermath of the experience is especially important in a reflective essay; miss this out and you will simply be storytelling.

What Do You Mean By Reflection Essay?

It sounds obvious, but the reflective process forms the core of writing this type of essay, so it’s important you get it right from the outset. You need to really think about how the personal experience you have chosen to focus on impacted or changed you. Use your memories and feelings of the experience to determine the implications for you on a personal level.

Once you’ve chosen the topic of your essay, it’s really important you study it thoroughly and spend a lot of time trying to think about it vividly. Write down everything you can remember about it, describing it as clearly and fully as you can. Keep your five senses in mind as you do this, and be sure to use adjectives to describe your experience. At this stage, you can simply make notes using short phrases, but you need to ensure that you’re recording your responses, perceptions, and your experience of the event(s).

Once you’ve successfully emptied the contents of your memory, you need to start reflecting. A great way to do this is to pick out some reflection questions which will help you think deeper about the impact and lasting effects of your experience. Here are some useful questions that you can consider:

• What have you learned about yourself as a result of the experience?
• Have you developed because of it? How?
• Did it have any positive or negative bearing on your life?
• Looking back, what would you have done differently?
• Why do you think you made the particular choices that you did? Do you think these were the right choices?
• What are your thoughts on the experience in general? Was it a useful learning experience? What specific skills or perspectives did you acquire as a result?

These signpost questions should help kick-start your reflective process. Remember, asking yourself lots of questions is key to ensuring that you think deeply and critically about your experiences – a skill that is at the heart of writing a great reflective essay.

Consider using models of reflection (like the Gibbs or Kolb cycles) before, during, and after the learning process to ensure that you maintain a high standard of analysis. For example, before you really get stuck into the process, consider questions such as: what might happen (regarding the experience)? Are there any possible challenges to keep in mind? What knowledge is needed to be best prepared to approach the experience? Then, as you’re planning and writing, these questions may be useful: what is happening within the learning process? Is the process working out as expected? Am I dealing with the accompanying challenges successfully? Is there anything that needs to be done additionally to ensure that the learning process is successful? What am I learning from this? By adopting such a framework, you’ll be ensuring that you are keeping tabs on the reflective process that should underpin your work.

How to Strategically Plan Out the Reflective Essay Structure?

Here’s a very useful tip: although you may feel well prepared with all that time spent reflecting in your arsenal, do not, start writing your essay until you have worked out a comprehensive, well-rounded plan . Your writing will be so much more coherent, your ideas conveyed with structure and clarity, and your essay will likely achieve higher marks.

This is an especially important step when you’re tackling a reflective essay – there can be a tendency for people to get a little ‘lost’ or disorganised as they recount their life experiences in an erratic and often unsystematic manner as it is a topic so close to their hearts. But if you develop a thorough outline (this is the same as a ‘plan’) and ensure you stick to it like Christopher Columbus to a map, you should do just fine as you embark on the ultimate step of writing your essay. If you need further convincing on how important planning is, we’ve summarised the key benefits of creating a detailed essay outline below:

Now you’re familiar with the benefits of using an outline for your reflective essay, it is essential that you know how to craft one. It can be considerably different from other typical essay outlines, mostly because of the varying subjects. But what remains the same, is that you need to start your outline by drafting the introduction, body and conclusion. More on this below.

Introduction

As is the case with all essays, your reflective essay must begin within an introduction that contains both a hook and a thesis statement. The point of having a ‘hook’ is to grab the attention of your audience or reader from the very beginning. You must portray the exciting aspects of your story in the initial paragraph so that you stand the best chances of holding your reader’s interest. Refer back to the opening quote of this article – did it grab your attention and encourage you to read more? The thesis statement is a brief summary of the focus of the essay, which in this case is a particular experience that influenced you significantly. Remember to give a quick overview of your experience – don’t give too much information away or you risk your reader becoming disinterested.

Next up is planning the body of your essay. This can be the hardest part of the entire paper; it’s easy to waffle and repeat yourself both in the plan and in the actual writing. Have you ever tried recounting a story to a friend only for them to tell you to ‘cut the long story short’? They key here is to put plenty of time and effort into planning the body, and you can draw on the following tips to help you do this well:

Try adopting a chronological approach. This means working through everything you want to touch upon as it happened in time. This kind of approach will ensure that your work is systematic and coherent. Keep in mind that a reflective essay doesn’t necessarily have to be linear, but working chronologically will prevent you from providing a haphazard recollection of your experience. Lay out the important elements of your experience in a timeline – this will then help you clearly see how to piece your narrative together.

Ensure the body of your reflective essay is well focused and contains appropriate critique and reflection. The body should not only summarise your experience, it should explore the impact that the experience has had on your life, as well as the lessons that you have learned as a result. The emphasis should generally be on reflection as opposed to summation. A reflective posture will not only provide readers with insight on your experience, it’ll highlight your personality and your ability to deal with or adapt to particular situations.

In the conclusion of your reflective essay, you should focus on bringing your piece together by providing a summary of both the points made throughout, and what you have learned as a result. Try to include a few points on why and how your attitudes and behaviours have been changed. Consider also how your character and skills have been affected, for example: what conclusions can be drawn about your problem-solving skills? What can be concluded about your approach to specific situations? What might you do differently in similar situations in the future? What steps have you taken to consolidate everything that you have learned from your experience? Keep in mind that your tutor will be looking out for evidence of reflection at a very high standard.

Congratulations – you now have the tools to create a thorough and accurate plan which should put you in good stead for the ultimate phase indeed of any essay, the writing process.

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing Your Reflective Essay

As with all written assignments, sitting down to put pen to paper (or more likely fingers to keyboard) can be daunting. But if you have put in the time and effort fleshing out a thorough plan, you should be well prepared, which will make the writing process as smooth as possible. The following points should also help ease the writing process:

• To get a feel for the tone and format in which your writing should be, read other typically reflective pieces in magazines and newspapers, for instance.
• Don’t think too much about how to start your first sentence or paragraph; just start writing and you can always come back later to edit anything you’re not keen on. Your first draft won’t necessarily be your best essay writing work but it’s important to remember that the earlier you start writing, the more time you will have to keep reworking your paper until it’s perfect. Don’t shy away from using a free-flow method, writing and recording your thoughts and feelings on your experiences as and when they come to mind. But make sure you stick to your plan. Your plan is your roadmap which will ensure your writing doesn’t meander too far off course.
• For every point you make about an experience or event, support it by describing how you were directly impacted, using specific as opposed to vague words to convey exactly how you felt.
• Write using the first-person narrative, ensuring that the tone of your essay is very personal and reflective of your character.
• If you need to, refer back to our notes earlier on creating an outline. As you work through your essay, present your thoughts systematically, remembering to focus on your key learning outcomes.
• Consider starting your introduction with a short anecdote or quote to grasp your readers’ attention, or other engaging techniques such as flashbacks.
• Choose your vocabulary carefully to properly convey your feelings and emotions. Remember that reflective writing has a descriptive component and so must have a wide range of adjectives to draw from. Avoid vague adjectives such as ‘okay’ or ‘nice’ as they don’t really offer much insight into your feelings and personality. Be more specific – this will make your writing more engaging.
• Be honest with your feelings and opinions. Remember that this is a reflective task, and is the one place you can freely admit – without any repercussions – that you failed at a particular task. When assessing your essay, your tutor will expect a deep level of reflection, not a simple review of your experiences and emotion. Showing deep reflection requires you to move beyond the descriptive. Be extremely critical about your experience and your response to it. In your evaluation and analysis, ensure that you make value judgements, incorporating ideas from outside the experience you had to guide your analysis. Remember that you can be honest about your feelings without writing in a direct way. Use words that work for you and are aligned with your personality.
• Once you’ve finished learning about and reflecting on your experience, consider asking yourself these questions: what did I particularly value from the experience and why? Looking back, how successful has the process been? Think about your opinions immediately after the experience and how they differ now, so that you can evaluate the difference between your immediate and current perceptions. Asking yourself such questions will help you achieve reflective writing effectively and efficiently.
• Don’t shy away from using a variety of punctuation. It helps keeps your writing dynamic! Doesn’t it?
• If you really want to awaken your reader’s imagination, you can use imagery to create a vivid picture of your experiences.
• Ensure that you highlight your turning point, or what we like to call your “Aha!” moment. Without this moment, your resulting feelings and thoughts aren’t as valid and your argument not as strong.
• Don’t forget to keep reiterating the lessons you have learned from your experience.

Bonus Tip - Using Wider Sources

Although a reflective piece of writing is focused on personal experience, it’s important you draw on other sources to demonstrate your understanding of your experience from a theoretical perspective. It’ll show a level of analysis – and a standard of reliability in what you’re claiming – if you’re also able to validate your work against other perspectives that you find. Think about possible sources, like newspapers, surveys, books and even journal articles. Generally, the additional sources you decide to include in your work are highly dependent on your field of study. Analysing a wide range of sources, will show that you have read widely on your subject area, that you have nuanced insight into the available literature on the subject of your essay, and that you have considered the broader implications of the literature for your essay. The incorporation of other sources into your essay also helps to show that you are aware of the multi-dimensional nature of both the learning and problem-solving process.

Reflective Essay Example

If you want some inspiration for writing, take a look at our example of a short reflective essay , which can serve as a useful starting point for you when you set out to write your own.

Some Final Notes to Remember

To recap, the key to writing a reflective essay is demonstrating what lessons you have taken away from your experiences, and why and how you have been shaped by these lessons.

The reflective thinking process begins with you – you must consciously make an effort to identify and examine your own thoughts in relation to a particular experience. Don’t hesitate to explore any prior knowledge or experience of the topic, which will help you identify why you have formed certain opinions on the subject. Remember that central to reflective essay writing is the examination of your attitudes, assumptions and values, so be upfront about how you feel. Reflective writing can be quite therapeutic, helping you identify and clarify your strengths and weaknesses, particularly in terms of any knowledge gaps that you may have. It’s a pretty good way of improving your critical thinking skills, too. It enables you to adopt an introspective posture in analysing your experiences and how you learn/make sense of them.

If you are still having difficulties with starting the writing process, why not try mind-mapping which will help you to structure your thinking and ideas, enabling you to produce a coherent piece. Creating a mind map will ensure that your argument is written in a very systematic way that will be easy for your tutor to follow. Here’s a recap of the contents of this article, which also serves as a way to create a mind map:

1. Identify the topic you will be writing on.

2. Note down any ideas that are related to the topic and if you want to, try drawing a diagram to link together any topics, theories, and ideas.

3. Allow your ideas to flow freely, knowing that you will always have time to edit your reflective essay .

4. Consider how your ideas are connected to each other, then begin the writing process.

And finally, keep in mind that although there are descriptive elements in a reflective essay, we can’t emphasise enough how crucial it is that your work is critical, analytical, and adopts a reflective posture in terms of your experience and the lessons you have learned from it.

Essay exams: how to answer ‘To what extent…’

How to write a master’s essay

• essay writing
• reflective essays
• study skills
• writing a good essay
• writing tips

Writing Services

• Essay Plans
• Critical Reviews
• Literature Reviews
• Presentations
• Dissertation Title Creation
• Dissertation Proposals
• Dissertation Chapters
• PhD Proposals
• Journal Publication
• CV Writing Service
• Business Proofreading Services

Editing Services

• Proofreading Service
• Editing Service
• Academic Editing Service

Additional Services

• Marking Services
• Consultation Calls
• Personal Statements
• Tutoring Services

Our Company

• Frequently Asked Questions
• Become a Writer

Terms & Policies

• Fair Use Policy
• Policy for Students in England
• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• [email protected]
• Contact Form

Payment Methods

Cryptocurrency payments.

• Subject Guides

Academic writing: a practical guide

Reflective writing.

• Academic writing
• The writing process
• Academic writing style
• Structure & cohesion
• Criticality in academic writing
• Working with evidence
• Referencing
• Assessment & feedback
• Dissertations
• Examination writing
• Academic posters
• Feedback on Structure and Organisation
• Feedback on Argument, Analysis, and Critical Thinking
• Feedback on Writing Style and Clarity
• Feedback on Referencing and Research
• Feedback on Presentation and Proofreading

Writing reflectively is essential to many academic programmes and also to completing applications for employment. This page considers what reflective writing is and how to do it. 

What is reflection?

Reflection is something that we do everyday as part of being human. We plan and undertake actions, then think about whether each was successful or not, and how we might improve next time. We can also feel reflection as emotions, such as satisfaction and regret, or as a need to talk over happenings with friends. See below for an introduction to reflection as a concept. 

Reflection in everyday life [Google Slides]

What is reflective writing?

Reflective writing should be thought of as recording reflective thinking. This can be done in an everyday diary entry, or instruction in a recipe book to change a cooking method next time. In academic courses, reflective is more complex and focussed. This section considers the main features of reflective writing. 

Reflective writing for employability

When applying for jobs, or further academic study, students are required to think through what they have done in their degrees and translate it into evaluative writing that fulfils the criteria of job descriptions and person specifications. This is a different style of writing, the resource below will enable you to think about how to begin this transition. 

There are also lots of resources available through the university's careers service and elsewhere on the Skills Guides. The links below are to pages that can offer further support and guidance. 

• Careers and Placements Service resources Lots of resources that relate to all aspects of job applications, including tailored writing styles and techniques.

The language of reflective writing

Reflective academic writing is: 

• almost always written in the first person.
• evaluative - you are judging something.
• partly personal, partly based on criteria.
• analytical - you are usually categorising actions and events.
• formal - it is for an academic audience.
• carefully constructed. 

Look at the sections below to see specific vocabulary types and sentence constructions that can be useful when writing reflectively. 

Language for exploring outcomes

A key element of writing reflectively is being able to explain to the reader what the results of your actions were. This requires careful grading of language to ensure that what you write reflects the evidence of what happened and to convey clearly what you achieved or did not achieve. 

Below are some ideas and prompts of how you can write reflectively about outcomes, using clarity and graded language. 

Expressing uncertainty when writing about outcomes:

• It is not yet clear that…
• I do not yet (fully) understand...
• It is unclear...
• It is not yet fully clear...
• It is not yet (fully?) known… 
• It appears to be the case that…
• It is too soon to tell....

Often, in academic learning, the uncertainty in the outcomes is a key part of the learning and development that you undertake. It is vital therefore that you explain this clearly to the reader using careful choices in your language. 

Writing about how the outcome relates to you:

• I gained (xxxx) skills… 
• I developed… 
• The experience/task/process taught me… 
• I achieved…
• I learned that…
• I found that… 

In each case you can add in words like, ‘significantly’, ‘greatly’, ‘less importantly’ etc. The use of evaluative adjectives enables you to express to the reader the importance and significance of your learning in terms of the outcomes achieved. 

Describing how you reached your outcomes:

• Having read....
• Having completed (xxxx)...
• I analysed…
• I applied… 
• I learned…
• I experienced… 
• Having reflected…

This gives the reader an idea of the nature of the reflection they are reading. How and why you reach the conclusions and learning that you express in your reflective writing is important so the reader can assess the validity and strength of your reflections. 

Projecting your outcomes into the future:

• If I completed a similar task in the future I would…
• Having learned through this process I would… 
• Next time I will…
• I will need to develop…. (in light of the outcomes)
• Next time my responses would be different....

When showing the reader how you will use your learning in the future, it is important to be specific and again, to use accurate graded language to show how and why what you choose to highlight matters. Check carefully against task instructions to see what you are expected to reflect into the future about. 

When reflecting in academic writing on outcomes, this can mean either the results of the task you have completed, for example, the accuracy of a titration in a Chemistry lab session, or what you have learned/developed within the task, for example, ensuring that an interview question is written clearly enough to produce a response that reflects what you wished to find out. 

Language choices are important in ensuring the reader can see what you think in relation to the reflection you have done. 

Language for interpretation

When you interpret something you are telling the reader how important it is, or what meaning is attached to it. 

You may wish to indicate the value of something:

• superfluous
• non-essential

E.g. 'the accuracy of the transcription was essential to the accuracy of the eventual coding and analysis of the interviews undertaken. The training I undertook was critical to enabling me to transcribe quickly and accurately' 

You may wish to show how ideas, actions or some other aspect developed over time:

• Initially 
• subsequently
• in sequence 

E.g. 'Before we could produce the final version of the presentation, we had to complete both the research and produce a plan. This was achieved later than expected, leading to subsequent rushing of creating slides, and this contributed to a lower grade'. 

You may wish to show your viewpoint or that of others:

• did not think
• articulated
• did/did not do something

Each of these could be preceded by 'we' or 'I'.

E.g. 'I noticed that the model of the bridge was sagging. I expressed this to the group, and as I did so I noticed that two members did not seem to grasp how serious the problem was. I proposed a break and a meeting, during which I intervened to show the results of inaction.'

There is a huge range of language that can be used for interpretation, the most important thing is to remember your reader and be clear with them about what your interpretation is, so they can see your thinking and agree or disagree with you. 

Language for analysis

When reflecting, it is important to show the reader that you have analysed the tasks, outcomes, learning and all other aspects that you are writing about. In most cases, you are using categories to provide structure to your reflection. Some suggestions of language to use when analysing in reflective writing are below:

Signposting that you are breaking down a task or learning into categories:

• An aspect of…
• An element of…
• An example of…
• A key feature of the task was... (e.g. teamwork)
• The task was multifaceted… (then go on to list or describe the facets)
• There were several experiences…
• ‘X’ is related to ‘y’

There may be specific categories that you should consider in your reflection. In teamwork, it could be individual and team performance, in lab work it could be accuracy and the reliability of results. It is important that the reader can see the categories you have used for your analysis. 

Analysis by chronology:

• Subsequently
• Consequently
• Stage 1 (or other)

In many tasks the order in which they were completed matters. This can be a key part of your reflection, as it is possible that you may learn to do things in a different order next time or that the chronology influenced the outcomes. 

Analysis by perspective:

• I considered

These language choices show that you are analysing purely by your own personal perspective. You may provide evidence to support your thinking, but it is your viewpoint that matters. 

• What I expected from the reading did not happen…
• The Theory did not appear in our results…
• The predictions made were not fulfilled…
• The outcome was surprising because… (and link to what was expected)

These language choices show that you are analysing by making reference to academic learning (from an academic perspective). This means you have read or otherwise learned something and used it to form expectations, ideas and/or predictions. You can then reflect on what you found vs what you expected. The reader needs to know what has informed our reflections. 

• Organisation X should therefore…
• A key recommendation is… 
• I now know that organisation x is… 
• Theory A can be applied to organisation X

These language choices show that analysis is being completed from a systems perspective. You are telling the reader how your learning links into the bigger picture of systems, for example, what an organisation or entity might do in response to what you have learned. 

Analysing is a key element of being reflective. You must think through the task, ideas, or learning you are reflecting on and use categories to provide structure to your thought. This then translates into structure and language choices in your writing, so your reader can see clearly how you have used analysis to provide sense and structure to your reflections. 

Language for evaluation

Reflecting is fundamentally an evaluative activity. Writing about reflection is therefore replete with evaluative language. A skillful reflective writer is able to grade their language to match the thinking it is expressing to the reader. 

Language to show how significant something is:

• Most importantly
• Significantly 
• The principal lesson was… 
• Consequential
• Fundamental
• Insignificant
• In each case the language is quantifying the significance of the element you are describing, telling the reader the product of your evaluative thought. 

For example, ‘when team working I initially thought that we would succeed by setting out a plan and then working independently, but in fact, constant communication and collaboration were crucial to success. This was the most significant thing I learned.’ 

Language to show the strength of relationships:

• X is strongly associated with Y
• A is a consequence of B
• There is a probable relationship between… 
• C does not cause D
• A may influence B
• I learn most strongly when doing A

In each case the language used can show how significant and strong the relationship between two factors are. 

For example, ‘I learned, as part of my research methods module, that the accuracy of the data gained through surveys is directly related to the quality of the questions. Quality can be improved by reading widely and looking at surveys in existing academic papers to inform making your own questions’

Language to evaluate your viewpoint:

• I was convinced...
• I have developed significantly…
• I learned that...
• The most significant thing that I learned was…
• Next time, I would definitely…
• I am unclear about… 
• I was uncertain about… 

These language choices show that you are attaching a level of significance to your reflection. This enables the reader to see what you think about the learning you achieved and the level of significance you attach to each reflection. 

For example, ‘when using systematic sampling of a mixed woodland, I was convinced that method A would be most effective, but in reality, it was clear that method B produced the most accurate results. I learned that assumptions based on reading previous research can lead to inaccurate predictions. This is very important for me as I will be planning a similar sampling activity as part of my fourth year project’ 

Evaluating is the main element of reflecting. You need to evaluate the outcomes of the activities you have done, your part in them, the learning you achieved and the process/methods you used in your learning, among many other things. It is important that you carefully use language to show the evaluative thinking you have completed to the reader.

Varieties of reflective writing in academic studies

There are a huge variety of reflective writing tasks, which differ between programmes and modules. Some are required by the nature of the subject, like in Education, where reflection is a required standard in teaching.

Some are required by the industry area graduates are training for, such as 'Human Resources Management', where the industry accreditation body require evidence of reflective capabilities in graduates.

In some cases, reflection is about the 'learning to learn' element of degree studies, to help you to become a more effective learner. Below, some of the main reflective writing tasks found in University of York degrees are explored. In each case the advice, guidance and materials do not substitute for those provided within your modules. 

Reflective essay writing

Reflective essay tasks vary greatly in what they require of you. The most important thing to do is to read the assessment brief carefully, attend any sessions and read any materials provided as guidance and to allocate time to ensure you can do the task well.

Reflective learning statements

Reflective learning statements are often attached to dissertations and projects, as well as practical activities. They are an opportunity to think about and tell the reader what you have learned, how you will use the learning, what you can do better next time and to link to other areas, such as your intended career. 

Making a judgement about academic performance

Think of this type of writing as producing your own feedback. How did you do? Why? What could you improve next time? These activities may be a part of modules, they could be attached to a bigger piece of work like a dissertation or essay, or could be just a part of your module learning. 

The four main questions to ask yourself when reflecting on your academic performance. 

• Why exactly did you achieve the grade you have been awarded? Look at your feedback, the instructions, the marking scheme and talk to your tutors to find out if you don't know. 
• How did your learning behaviours affect your academic performance? This covers aspects such as attendance, reading for lectures/seminars, asking questions, working with peers... the list goes on. 
• How did your performance compare to others? Can you identify when others did better or worse? Can you talk to your peers to find out if they are doing something you are not or being more/less effective?
• What can you do differently to improve your performance? In each case, how will you ensure you can do it? Do you need training? Do you need a guide book or resources? 

When writing about each of the above, you need to keep in mind the context of how you are being asked to judge your performance and ensure the reader gains the detail they need (and as this is usually a marker, this means they can give you a high grade!). 

Writing a learning diary/blog/record

A learning diary or blog has become a very common method of assessing and supporting learning in many degree programmes. The aim is to help you to think through your day-to-day learning and identify what you have and have not learned, why that is and what you can improve as you go along. You are also encouraged to link your learning to bigger thinking, like future careers or your overall degree. 

Other support for reflective writing

Online resources.

The general writing pages of this site offer guidance that can be applied to all types of writing, including reflective writing. Also check your department's guidance and VLE sites for tailored resources.

Other useful resources for reflective writing:

Appointments and workshops 

• << Previous: Dissertations
• Next: Examination writing >>
• Last Updated: Aug 7, 2024 2:21 PM
• URL: https://subjectguides.york.ac.uk/academic-writing

How to Write a Reflective Essay

Writing a reflective essay is like deep diving into your experiences and thoughts and sharing what you've learned. 

It's not your typical academic paper – it's more about exploring your personal growth and understanding. Reflective essays are about looking back on moments in your life, analyzing how they've shaped you, and expressing those insights clearly and meaningfully. 

From how to start a reflective essay to what kinds of stylistic devices to use, this article will teach you how to offer readers a glimpse into the complexities of your human experience as a human being.

What Is a Reflective Essay

A reflective essay is a type of personal writing where the author delves into their thoughts, emotions, and experiences regarding a particular topic, event, or aspect of their life. 

Unlike other forms of academic writing, it focuses on the writer's introspection and self-analysis, often exploring how they have been affected or changed by their experiences. 

Reflective essays typically involve a structured approach in which the writer examines the significance of their experiences, considers lessons learned, and considers how they might apply these insights in the future.

Should you need urgent help with this assignment, use our essay writing service without hesitation.

What Is the Purpose of Writing a Reflective Essay

Composing a reflective essay provides a platform for individuals to explore and analyze their experiences, thoughts, and emotions in a structured manner. Through reflection, writers can gain deeper insights into themselves, their beliefs, and their actions. 

Reflective essays provide opportunities for self-discovery, growth, and learning. They encourage individuals to critically examine their experiences, identify patterns, and understand how they have been shaped by various factors. 

Additionally, reflective essays allow custom writers to communicate their insights and perspectives to others, fostering empathy, understanding, and connection. 

Types of Reflective Essays

Reflective essays can take various forms depending on the purpose, audience, and context. Some common types include:

How to Start a Reflective Essay

Starting a reflective essay can be approached in various ways, but here are a few effective strategies to consider:

• Begin with an Engaging Anecdote

Capture your reader's attention by sharing a brief, compelling story or anecdote related to the topic you'll be reflecting on. This can set the tone for your essay and draw readers in from the start.

• Pose a Thought-Provoking Question

Start with a question that prompts readers to think deeply about the topic you'll explore in your reflection. This can create curiosity and encourage engagement right from the beginning.

• Provide Context

Offer some background information or context about the experience or topic you'll reflect on. This will help orient your readers and give them a foundation for understanding your reflection.

• State Your Thesis or Main Idea

Clearly state your reflective essay's main idea or thesis in the introduction. This gives readers a preview of what to expect and directs your reflection.

• Use a Quotation

Begin with a relevant quotation that sets the tone for your reflection and encapsulates what you'll discuss in your essay. Make sure the quotation is meaningful and resonates with your topic.

• Start with a Strong Statement

Open with a bold statement or assertion that captures the essence of your reflection. This can be a striking observation, a personal revelation, or a philosophical insight related to your topic.

Recommended for reading: Academic Essay Guide.

Writing a reflective essay involves several key steps:

Select a Meaningful Topic

Choosing a meaningful topic is pivotal as it sets the foundation for your reflective essay. Consider moments that have left a profound impact or triggered significant growth. These can range from personal experiences and academic achievements to challenges overcome. 

Selecting a topic involves considering personal experiences that have significantly impacted you. Here's how to choose a topic before writing a reflective essay:

• Reflect on Personal Experiences – Think about moments that have left a lasting impression or provoked deep thought and introspection. Consider experiences that have shaped your beliefs, values, or outlook on life.
• Identify Key Events or Challenges – Look for specific events, challenges, or milestones that stand out in your memory. These could be achievements, failures, conflicts, transitions, or moments of self-discovery.
• Consider Emotional Significance – Reflect on experiences that have evoked strong emotions, whether positive or negative. Emotional depth often leads to rich reflection and meaningful insights.
• Focus on Growth or Learning – Choose a topic that highlights personal growth, learning, or transformation. Reflective essays are most compelling when they explore how experiences have influenced your development.
• Think about Relevance and Universality – Consider topics that are not only personally significant but also have broader relevance or universal themes. Reflecting on experiences that others can relate to can make your essay more engaging and impactful.
• Brainstorm Ideas – Brainstorm potential topics, jotting down any experiences or moments that come to mind. Don't censor yourself at this stage; let your thoughts flow freely.
• Narrow Down Your Options – Review your list of potential topics and consider which ones resonate with you the most. Choose a topic you feel passionate about and eager to explore in depth.
• Ensure Personal Connection – Choose a topic that feels authentic and meaningful to you. Your passion and genuine interest in the topic will shine through in your writing, making your reflective essay more compelling and engaging for readers.

Outline Your Essay

An organized outline is a blueprint for your reflective essay, ensuring a structured and coherent narrative flow. Begin by outlining the main points you intend to explore in each section, including the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. 

Structure your outline logically, allowing for smooth transitions between ideas and reflections. Consider the overarching themes and insights you wish to convey, ensuring they are seamlessly integrated into your essay's framework. 

Through outlining, you streamline the writing process and maintain a cohesive narrative that captivates your audience and effectively communicates your reflections.

Reflect and Brainstorm

Reflection and brainstorming are the cornerstones of a reflective essay, allowing you to delve deep into your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Take the time to introspect on your chosen topic, exploring the nuances of your feelings, reactions, and lessons learned. 

Embrace moments of vulnerability and introspection, as they can lead to genuine insights and self-awareness. Through brainstorming, jot down key moments, reflections, and realizations that have shaped your perspective. 

This process enriches your writing and fosters personal growth and understanding as you navigate through the complexities of your experiences.

Come up with a Thesis Statement

Crafting a compelling thesis statement is essential as it encapsulates your reflective essay's core message or insight. 

Your thesis serves as a roadmap, guiding both you and your readers through the narrative journey ahead. It should concisely summarize your reflection's central theme or purpose, offering a glimpse into the key aspects of your experience and its significance. 

A well-crafted thesis statement provides clarity and focus and sets the tone for the rest of your essay. It acts as a beacon, directing your efforts toward articulating your reflections cohesively while inviting readers to delve deeper into the complexities of your narrative.

Write, Reflect, and Revise

Writing, reflecting, and revising are iterative processes culminating in a polished reflective essay. 

Draft your essay, beginning with a compelling introduction that sets the stage for your reflection. Dive into the body paragraphs, exploring specific aspects of your experience and their implications. Incorporate personal anecdotes, observations, and reflections to enrich your narrative, fostering a deeper connection with your readers. Alternatively, you can buy an essay online to avoid having to do everything on your own.

As you write, reflect on your journey, acknowledging the growth and insights gained along the way. Finally, revise your essay for clarity, coherence, and impact, ensuring that your reflections are articulated effectively and leave a lasting impression on your audience. 

Through this process, you refine your writing and deepen your understanding of yourself and others.

Reflective Essay Outline

Before you start writing any content for your essay, it would be wise to draw up an outline of your document:

Tips for Writing a Reflective Essay

As we know, a reflective essay involves examining your experiences and expressing how they influenced you. Here are seven useful and practical tips to help you write an effective essay about self-reflection:

Focus on a Specific Moment

Choose a specific incident or moment that had a profound impact on you. Narrowing your focus to a single event or series of related events can make your reflection deeper and more meaningful.

Ask Guiding Questions

Use questions to guide your reflection. For example:

• What happened?
• How did it make me feel?
• Why did I feel that way?
• What did I learn from this experience?
• How has this experience changed me?

Answering these questions can help you explore your thoughts and emotions more thoroughly.

Use the 'What, So What, Now What' Framework

• What: Describe the experience or event.
• So What: Analyze why the experience was significant.
• Now What: Reflect on how the experience will influence your future actions or perspectives. This structure ensures your essay has depth and direction.

Integrate Theory and Practice

If relevant, connect your personal experiences with theoretical concepts or lessons you've learned in your studies or professional life. This can add a layer of intellectual reflection to your reflective essays and demonstrate your ability to apply theory to practice.

Include Dialogue and Thoughts

Incorporate direct quotes or internal monologue from the experience. This adds authenticity and gives readers insight into your immediate reactions and thoughts during the event.

Use Reflective Language

Employ phrases that indicate reflection, such as "I realized," "I learned," "This made me think," "I understood that," etc. This helps convey your introspective process to the reader.

 Haven’t Finished Your Reflective Essay Yet?

Think outside the box – use a professional writing service!

Reflective Essay Examples

Recommended for reading: Definition Essay Examples .

Reflective essays are super important for students because they help you think about what you've learned and how you've grown. They make you reflect on your experiences, figure out what went well and what didn't, and understand how it fits into your life. 

By doing this, you don't just memorize stuff for a test – you get why it matters and how it applies to real life. Plus, reflecting like this helps you improve at thinking things through, understanding yourself, and solving problems. 

Want to Easily Impress Your Professors?

Count on the support of our professional writers for a top-notch academic paper

How to Write a Reflective Essay?

What are the parts of a typical reflective essay, what is a reflective essay format.

Daniel Parker

is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

• Content updated.
• Added 2 tables.
• Reflective essays | Australian National University. (2023, November 14). https://www.anu.edu.au/students/academic-skills/writing-assessment/reflective-writing/reflective-essays
• Reflective Essays. (n.d.). The Writing Center. https://writingcenter.gmu.edu/writing-resources/different-genres/reflective-essays
• https://westernsydney.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0007/1082779/Reflective_writing_Structure.pdf

• Link to facebook
• Link to linkedin
• Link to twitter
• Link to youtube
• Writing Tips

How to Write a Reflective Essay

• 3-minute read
• 29th August 2018

If you think that a “reflective essay” is a college paper written on a mirror, this post is for you. That’s because we’re here to explain exactly what a reflective essay is and how to write one. And we can tell you from the outset that no mirrors are required to follow our advice.

What Is Reflective Writing?

The kind of “reflection” we’re talking about here is personal. It involves considering your own situation and analyzing it so you can learn from your experiences. To do this, you need to describe what happened, how you felt about it, and what you might be able to learn from it for the future.

This makes reflective writing a useful part of courses that involve work-based learning . For instance, a student nurse might be asked to write a reflective essay about a placement.

When writing a reflective essay, moreover, you may have to forget the rule about not using pronouns like “I” or “we” in academic writing. In reflective writing, using the first person is essential!

The Reflective Cycle

There are many approaches to reflective learning, but one of the most popular is Gibb’s Reflective Cycle . This was developed by Professor Graham Gibbs and can be applied to a huge range of situations. In all cases, though, it involves the following steps:

Find this useful?

Subscribe to our newsletter and get writing tips from our editors straight to your inbox.

• Description – You will need to describe your experiences in detail. This includes what happened, where and when it happened, who else was involved, and what you did.
• Feelings – How you felt before, during, and after the experience you describe.
• Evaluation and Analysis – Think about what went well and what could be improved upon based on your experience. Try to refer to ideas you’ve learned in class while thinking about this.
• Conclusions – Final thoughts on what you’ve learned from the experience.
• Action – How you will put what you’ve learned into practice.

If your reflective essay addresses the steps above, you are on the right track!

Structuring a Reflective Essay

While reflective essays vary depending upon topic and subject area, most share a basic overall structure. Unless you are told otherwise, then, your essay should include the following:

• Introduction – A brief outline of what your essay is about.
• Main Body – The main part of your essay will be a description of what happened and how it made you feel . This is also where you will evaluate and analyze your experiences, either as part of the description or as a separate section in the essay.
• Conclusion – The conclusion of your essay should sum up what you have learned from reflecting on your experiences and what you would do differently in the future.
• Reference List – If you have cited any sources in your essay, make sure to list them with full bibliographic information at the end of the document.

Finally, once you’ve written your essay, don’t forget to get it checked for spelling and grammar errors!

Share this article:

Post A New Comment

Got content that needs a quick turnaround? Let us polish your work. Explore our editorial business services.

5-minute read

Free Email Newsletter Template (2024)

Promoting a brand means sharing valuable insights to connect more deeply with your audience, and...

6-minute read

How to Write a Nonprofit Grant Proposal

If you’re seeking funding to support your charitable endeavors as a nonprofit organization, you’ll need...

9-minute read

How to Use Infographics to Boost Your Presentation

Is your content getting noticed? Capturing and maintaining an audience’s attention is a challenge when...

8-minute read

Why Interactive PDFs Are Better for Engagement

Are you looking to enhance engagement and captivate your audience through your professional documents? Interactive...

7-minute read

Seven Key Strategies for Voice Search Optimization

Voice search optimization is rapidly shaping the digital landscape, requiring content professionals to adapt their...

4-minute read

Five Creative Ways to Showcase Your Digital Portfolio

Are you a creative freelancer looking to make a lasting impression on potential clients or...

Make sure your writing is the best it can be with our expert English proofreading and editing.

📕 Studying HQ

Ultimate Guide to Writing a Reflective Essay

Carla johnson.

• June 14, 2023
• How to Guides

Writing about yourself is a powerful way to learn and grow as a person. It is a type of writing that makes you think about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences and how they have affected your personal and professional growth. A reflective essay is a type of writing that lets you talk about your own experiences, thoughts, and insights. In this article , we’ll tell you everything you need to know about writing a reflective essay, from how to define it and figure out what it’s for to how to do it well.

What You'll Learn

Definition of a Reflective Essay

A reflective essay is a type of writing in which you write about your own thoughts, feelings, and experiences. It is a type of personal writing that lets you talk about your own thoughts and experiences and share them with other people. Students are often asked to write reflective essays for school, but they can also be used for personal or professional growth.

Purpose of a Reflective Essay

The goal of a reflective essay is to get you to think about your life and how it has affected your personal and professional growth. Reflective essays can help you learn more about yourself and your experiences, as well as find places where you can grow and improve. They can also help you get better at writing and better at getting your ideas across.

Importance of Reflective Writing

Writing about yourself and your work is an important way to grow personally and professionally. It can help you learn more about yourself, figure out where you need to grow and change, and learn more about how you think and feel. Writing about yourself can also help you get better at critical thinking and analysis , and it can help you get your ideas across better. It is a useful tool for anyone who wants to grow personally and professionally, and it can be used in many different situations, from academic writing to keeping a personal journal.

Writing about yourself and your work is a powerful way to grow personally and professionally. Reflective essays give you a chance to think about your own life and how it has affected your personal and professional growth. By writing about your thoughts and feelings, you can learn more about them, find ways to grow and improve, and improve your writing and communication skills . In the next parts of this article, we’ll show you how to write a good reflective essay step by step, from choosing a topic and organizing your thoughts to writing and revising your essay.

Elements of a Reflective Essay

A reflective essay is a type of writing that allows you to reflect on your personal experiences, thoughts, and feelings. There are several essential elements that should be included in a reflective essay to ensure that it is effective in conveying your personal reflections and experiences.

Personal Reflection

The first essential element of a reflective essay is personal reflection. This involves exploring your own thoughts and feelings about the experience you are reflecting on. It is important to be honest and open about your thoughts and feelings, as this will make your essay more authentic and meaningful.

Description of the Experience

The second element of a reflective essay is a description of the experience that you are reflecting on. This includes providing details about the experience, such as where it took place, who was involved, and what happened. The description should be clear and concise, and should provide enough detail for the reader to understand the context of your reflection.

Analysis of the Experience

The third element of a reflective essay is analysis of the experience. This involves exploring the experience in more depth, and examining your thoughts and feelings about it. You should consider what you learned from the experience, and how it impacted your personal and professional growth .

Evaluation of the Experience

The fourth element of a reflective essay is evaluation of the experience. This involves examining the experience from different perspectives, and considering its strengths and weaknesses. You should reflect on what you would do differently if you were in the same situation again, and how you could improve your response or approach.

Identification of Key Learning

The fifth element of a reflective essay is identifying the key learning that you gained from the experience. This involves reflecting on the insights and lessons that you learned from the experience, and how these have impacted your personal and professional growth. This can include new skills, knowledge, or perspectives that you gained from the experience.

Planning for Future Action

The final element of a reflective essay is planning for future action. This involves considering how you can apply the lessons and insights gained from the experience to improve your future actions. You should reflect on how you can use what you learned to approach similar situations differently in the future.

How to Write a Reflective Essay

Writing a reflective essay can be a challenging task, but by following a few simple steps, you can write an effective and meaningful essay .

Steps for Writing a Reflective Essay:

1. Brainstorming and Selecting a Topic

Begin by brainstorming and selecting a topic for your reflective essay. Think about a personal experience or event that had a significant impact on your personal or professional growth.

2. Creating an Outline

Create an outline for your essay . This should include an introduction, body, and conclusion, as well as sections for each of the essential elements described above.

3. Writing the Introduction

Write the introduction for your essay . This should include a brief overview of the experience that you will be reflecting on, as well as the purpose and focus of your essay.

4. Writing the Body

Write the body of your essay, which should include the personal reflection, description of the experience, analysis of the experience, evaluation of the experience, identification of key learning, and planning for future action . Make sure to use specific examples and details to support your reflection.

5. Writing the Conclusion

Write the conclusion for your essay , which should summarize the key points of your reflection and provide closure for the reader. You can also include a final reflection on the experience and what it means to you.

6. Revising and Editing

Pay close attention to grammar, spelling, and sentence structure as you reread and edit your essay . Make sure your essay is easy to read and flows well. You might also want someone else to look over your essay and give you feedback and ideas.

If you follow these steps, you should be able to write a good reflective essay. Remember to be honest and open about your thoughts and feelings, and to support your reflection with specific examples and details. You can become a good reflective writer with practice , and you can use this skill to help your personal and professional growth.

Reflective Essay Topics

Reflective essays can be written on a wide range of topics, as they are based on personal experiences and reflections. Here are some common categories of reflective essay topics:

Personal Experiences

– A time when you overcame a personal challenge

– A difficult decision you had to make

– A significant event in your life that changed you

– A moment when you learned an important lesson

– A relationship that had a significant impact on you

Professional Experiences

– A challenging project or assignment at work

– A significant accomplishment or success in your career

– A time when you had to deal with a difficult colleague or boss

– A failure or setback in your career and what you learned from it

– A career change or transition that had a significant impact on you

Academic Experiences

– A challenging course or assignment in school

– A significant accomplishment or success in your academic career

– A time when you struggled with a particular subject or topic and how you overcame it

– A research project or paper that had a significant impact on you

– A teacher or mentor who had a significant impact on your academic career

Cultural Experiences

– A significant trip or travel experience

– A significant cultural event or celebration you participated in

– A time when you experienced culture shock

– A significant interaction with someone from a different culture

– A time when you learned something new about a different culture and how it impacted you

Social Issues

– A personal experience with discrimination or prejudice

– A time when you volunteered or worked for a social cause or organization

– A significant event or moment related to a social issue (e.g. protest, rally, community event)

– A time when you had to confront your own biases or privilege

– A social issue that you are passionate about and how it has impacted you personally

Reflective Essay Examples

Example 1: Reflecting on a Personal Challenge

In this reflective essay, the writer reflects on a personal challenge they faced and how they overcame it. They explore their thoughts, feelings, and actions during this time, and reflect on the lessons they learned from the experience.

Example 2: Reflecting on a Professional Experience

In this reflective essay, the writer reflects on a challenging project they worked on at work and how they overcame obstacles to successfully complete it. They explore their thoughts and feelings about the experience and reflect on the skills and knowledge they gained from it.

Example 3: Reflecting on an Academic Assignment

In this reflective essay, the writer reflects on a challenging academic assignment they completed and how they overcame difficulties to successfully complete it. They explore their thoughts and feelings about the experience and reflect on the skills and knowledge they gained from it.

Example 4: Reflecting on a Cultural Experience

In this reflective essay, the writer reflects on a significant cultural experience they had, such as traveling to a new country or participating in a cultural event. Theyexplore their thoughts and feelings about the experience, reflect on what they learned about the culture, and how it impacted them personally.

Example 5: Reflecting on a Social Issue

In this reflective essay, the writer reflects on their personal experiences with discrimination or prejudice and how it impacted them. They explore their thoughts and feelings about the experience, reflect on what they learned about themselves and the issue, and how they can take action to address it.

These examples demonstrate how reflective essays can be used to explore a wide range of personal experiences and reflections. By exploring your own thoughts and feelings about an experience, you can gain insights into your personal and professional growth and identify areas for further development . Reflective writing is a powerful tool for self-reflection and personal growth, and it can be used in many different contexts to help you gain a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you.

Reflective Essay Outline

A reflective essay should follow a basic outline that includes an introduction, body, and conclusion. Here is a breakdown of each section:

Introduction: The introduction should provide an overview of the experience you will be reflecting on and a preview of the key points you will be discussing in your essay .

Body: The body of the essay should include several paragraphs that explore your personal reflection, description of the experience, analysis of the experience, evaluation of the experience, identification of key learning, and planning for future action.

Conclusion: The conclusion should summarize the key points of your reflection and provide closure for the reader.

Reflective Essay Thesis

A reflective essay thesis is a statement that summarizes the main points of your essay and provides a clear focus for your writing. A strong thesis statement is essential for a successful reflective essay, as it helps to guide your writing and ensure that your essay is focused and coherent.

Importance of a Strong Thesis Statement

A strong thesis statement is important for several reasons. First, it provides a clear focus for your writing, which helps to ensure that your essay is coherent and well-organized. Second, it helps to guide your writing and ensure that you stay on topic throughout your essay . Finally, it helps to engage your reader and provide them with a clear understanding of what your essay is about.

Tips for Writing a Thesis Statement

To write a strong thesis statement for your reflective essay, follow these tips:

– Be clear and concise: Yourthesis statement should clearly state the main focus and purpose of your essay in a concise manner.

– Use specific language: Use specific language to describe the experience you will be reflecting on and the key points you will be discussing in your essay .

– Make it arguable: A strong thesis statement should be arguable and provide some insight or perspective on the experience you are reflecting on.

– Reflect on the significance: Reflect on the significance of the experience you are reflecting on and why it is important to you.

Reflective Essay Structure

The structure of a reflective essay is important for ensuring that your essay is well-organized and easy to read. A clear structure helps to guide the reader through your thoughts and reflections, and it makes it easier for them to understand your main points.

The Importance of a Clear Structure

A clear structure is important for several reasons. First, it helps to ensure that your essay is well-organized and easy to read. Second, it helps to guide your writing and ensure that you stay on topic throughout your essay. Finally, it helps to engage your reader and provide them with a clear understanding of the key points you are making.

Tips for Structuring a Reflective Essay

To structure your reflective essay effectively, follow these tips:

– Start with an introduction that provides an overview of the experience you are reflecting on and a preview of the key points you will be discussing in your essay .

– Use body paragraphs to explore your personal reflection, description of the experience, analysisof the experience, evaluation of the experience, identification of key learning, and planning for future action. Ensure that each paragraph has a clear focus and supports your thesis statement .

– Use transition words and phrases to connect your paragraphs and make your essay flow smoothly.

– End your essay with a conclusion that summarizes the key points of your reflection and provides closure for the reader.

– Consider using subheadings to organize your essay and make it more structured and easy to read.

By following these tips, you can create a clear and well-structured reflective essay that effectively communicates your personal experiences and reflections. Remember to use specific examples and details to support your reflection, and to keep your focus on the main topic and thesis statement of your essay .

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. what is a reflective essay.

A reflective essay is a type of writing that allows you to reflect on your personal experiences, thoughts, and feelings. It involves exploring your own thoughts and feelings about an experience, and reflecting on what you learned from it.

2. What are the elements of a reflective essay?

The essential elements of a reflective essay include personal reflection, description of the experience, analysis of the experience, evaluation of the experience, identification of key learning, and planning for future action.

3. How do I choose a topic for a reflective essay?

To choose a topic for a reflective essay, think about a personal experience or event that had a significant impact on your personal or professional growth. You may also consider professional experiences, academic experiences, cultural experiences, or social issues that have impacted you personally.

Reflective writing is a powerful tool for personal and professional development. By exploring your own thoughts and feelings about an experience, you can gain insights into your personal and professional growth and identify areas for further development. To write an effective reflective essay, it is important to follow a clear structure, use specific examples and details to support your reflection, and stay focused on the main topic and thesis statement of your essay . By following these tips and guidelines, you can become a skilled reflective writer and use this tool to improve your personal and professional growth.

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.

Typically replies within minutes

Hey! 👋 Need help with an assignment?

🟢 Online | Privacy policy

WhatsApp us

Reflective Essay Guide

Writing Reflective Essay

Last updated on: Feb 9, 2023

A Step by Step Guide to Writing a Reflective Essay

By: John K.

Reviewed By: Jacklyn H.

Published on: May 11, 2021

If you have been assigned the task of writing a reflective essay, it will be an excellent opportunity to polish your creativity and writing skills.

A reflective essay is slightly different from other essays as it requires a personal point of view of a chosen subject. Thus, you need to analyze a particular subject with your personal experience, understanding, and knowledge.

The only key to write a reflective paper is that you need to be more expressive. The more expressive you are, the merrier it will be for your essay. Feel free to talk about life experiences that are valid to your topic. Writing your reflections can actually be a strength in this kind of essay.

If this sounds like something that interests or concerns you, then keep reading! This blog contains every detail necessary to produce an impressive reflective essay.

On this Page

What Is a Reflective Essay?

A reflective essay describes an experience or event and analyzes the meaning of that particular experience and the lessons it delivers. One thing that makes it a reflective essay is that the writer analyzes an event of the past from the present.

When writing a reflective essay, you are required to open up about your emotions and thoughts to paint a clear picture of your personality, history, and individual traits.

It is required that you include a description and a vivid summary of the experience; it will make the reader feel that he has experienced it as well. Moreover, you need to explain your reactions, thoughts, feelings, and emotions.

A good reflective paper should be creative, insightful, and authentic. It needs to express your opinions on a specific topic interestingly so that the reader wants to follow what you're saying without getting bored or leaving it before reading.

Reflective Essay Format

REFLECTIVE ESSAY FORMAT AND TEMPLATE

How to Start a Reflective Essay?

Writing a great reflective essay is a chance to polish your skills of writing and enhance your creativity. However, sometimes, it gets difficult and confusing to write it. There are many high schools as well as college students who get confused thinking where to start.

So, we have compiled some steps that will help you to write a perfect essay.

Let’s discuss them in detail.

1. Choose Your Topic Carefully

If you are given the freedom to choose a topic and don’t have any idea regarding it, the best way is to brainstorm and research some trending and good topic ideas. Unfortunately, a common mistake when writing a reflective essay is to choose a topic that is too broad or too narrow.

2. Research About Your Subject

Make sure you do thorough research on your topic first. Close your eyes and start imagining or remembering. Then, watch, listen, and read the information regarding your topic.

3. Brainstorm

Before you even start writing, brainstorm your ideas first. It is always a wise step to take before writing anything.

4. Choose Reflection Questions

Take a look at the questions below to get a better idea:

• What did I notice?
• What do I feel about it?
• Why am I feeling this way?

5. Answer the Questions You Have Chosen

After selecting your questions, you need to give their answers. Start from one essay question; make sure you answer it properly. After that, head on to the next one.

6. Recognize Your Experience Meaning

Before you even start writing, you need to choose the most significant lesson you have learned from your experience. This “most significant lesson or thing” is going to be the thesis of your essay.

7. Follow the Structure

Like all the other essays, the reflective essay also has the same format, which comprises the introduction, body, and conclusion paragraph.

Therefore, follow these steps and makes your essay writing process easy.

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That's our Job!

How to Write a Reflective Essay?

Here are some steps that you should follow when you start writing your reflective paper.

1. Write the Introduction

To understand and know how to start a reflective essay introduction, you must first understand that an introduction is a piece of brief information about the main topic and its background.

In the reflective essay introduction, you will recognize the subject and provide the reader with an overview of the impression you have taken from it. Therefore, the introductory paragraph of your reflective essay needs to include a thesis statement that will act as a focal point of your paper.

2. Body Paragraphs

The first body paragraph should mention the impactful impression your subject has made on you. Then, provide relevant facts to support your thesis statement.

Moreover, the body of your essay will also describe most of the ideas you touched on in your introduction.

3. Write a Conclusion

Restate your thesis statement and summarize all the reasons you have mentioned in the essay’s body paragraphs. After that, sum up your essay with your final thoughts on the subject; close your essay with some reflective thoughts.

4. Proofread and Edit

Never submit your essay without editing or proofreading. Even though you have spent hours of effort and put a lot of hard work in doing your essay, your essay will have no worth if you haven’t proofread and edited it.

Here is the reflective essay outline sample for your ease.

Reflective Essay Outline

REFLECTIVE ESSAY OUTLINE

Reflective Essay Examples

We have compiled some perfect reflective essay examples below to help you get started on your paper.

Personal Reflective Essay Examples

PERSONAL REFLECTIVE ESSAY EXAMPLES

ENGLISH REFLECTIVE ESSAY EXAMPLES

Tough Essay Due? Hire Tough Writers!

Reflective Essay Topics

Check out these reflective essay ideas on the most common subjects you can write about:

• Something from your imagination
• Something you have experienced in real
• A special object
• Something you have seen, heard, read, watched, touched, or smelled.

We are sure these subjects must have sparked your imagination, but here are a few essay topics that will help you get the bigger picture. In addition, these topics will help you understand the kind of topics teachers like to assign.

• The desert, mountains, countryside, or beach
• A special room or hideaway
• The house you grew up
• Home of some relative
• A person that taught me how to improve reflective writing skills
• New Experiences
• When your piece of writing published
• Important conversation
• The older man line of thought
• The time you overcame your fears

A list of topics will help you get a picture of what good ideas are like and how to come up with one of your own.

5StarEssays.com is the best essay writing service online with exceptional quality work and insanely affordable rates. In addition, our round-the-clock customer support is ready to help you out with your academic growth.

Your essays are assigned to highly qualified essay writers who have years of experience and education. They make sure to provide you with mind-blowing, error-free, and on-time essays. They don’t just cater to the reflective essay but help with all types of essays.

So, contact us now and get the best write my essay for me? service at affordable rates.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is a reflective essay.

The reflective essay should be between 300 and 500 words. However, it will vary according to the chosen topic.

What is the purpose of a reflective essay?

A reflective essay is a great opportunity for the author to explore what has happened in their life and show how this specific event may have changed them.

PhD Essay, Literature

John K. is a professional writer and author with many publications to his name. He has a Ph.D. in the field of management sciences, making him an expert on the subject matter. John is highly sought after for his insights and knowledge, and he regularly delivers keynote speeches and conducts workshops on various topics related to writing and publishing. He is also a regular contributor to various online publications.

Was This Blog Helpful?

Keep reading.

• Best Reflective Essay Topics Recommended by Experts

People Also Read

• how to write a synopsis
• what is a topic sentence
• writing annotated bibliography
• definition essay topics
• how to avoid plagiarism

Burdened With Assignments?

Advertisement

• Homework Services: Essay Topics Generator

© 2024 - All rights reserved

How to Write a Reflective Essay

To write a reflective essay, choose a personal experience and reflect on its impact. Outline your thoughts, starting with an introduction. In the body, describe the experience and your reflections. Conclude by summarizing your insights. Revise for clarity and coherence.

Reflective essay definition: "Reflective writing is a practice of analyzing a situation from a perspective that may differ from the viewpoint of the audience. Reflective writing entails the process of collecting data, organizing and synthesizing the gathered data, and expressing a personal opinion about the collected data and opinion." Reflection on one's experiences is reflected in one's writing.

This type of writing challenges your ability to look back onto one's own experiences and put it on paper in a well-structured and sort of a narrative way. The aim is to describe your feelings, a certain perspective on the event. Later on, you will need to make a conclusion on what impact something particular has had on you. There will be a need to describe what you have learned from that and how this new knowledge may have changed your perception.

Let's dive in!

What Is a Reflective Essay?

"Good writing is supposed to evoke sensation in the reader – not the fact that it is raining, but the feeling of being rained upon." - E.L. Doctorow.

A reflective essay is a type of writing where the author explores and analyzes their life experiences. Through this exploration, the writer reflects on how these experiences have contributed to their personal evolution, growth, or development.

Knowing how to write a reflection essay involves more than a predetermined format but is an art of creative expression. As an aspiring writer, you must delve into personal experiences. From topics like your first day in college to pivotal global events, you must infuse unique perspectives into your narrative. *Choosing the Right Theme ‍

Whether given a prompt by a teacher or the autonomy to choose, theme selection is pivotal. Your topics may range widely, but remember to engage your emotions to breathe life into the words. If you’re unsure what to do, you can buy essays online to be your guide.

*Weaving a Compelling Narrative

Create a story that envelops the reader by ensuring meticulous attention to adjectives and details. A reflective essay transcends mere recounting and immerses readers in a world where emotions and experiences unfold naturally.

*The Power of Honest Reflection

Consistency and relevance are the bedrock of compelling reflective essays. Be clear and coherent so your readers can seamlessly follow your train of thought. Embrace your emotions for authenticity in expression.To craft an excellent reflection essay, blend creativity with honesty. Let emotions flow naturally, and carefully choose vocabulary that aligns with your chosen format.

Struggling with your Reflective Essay Homework?

Get your assignments done by real pros. Save your precious time and boost your marks with ease.

How to Start Writing a Reflection Essay

Follow these steps to get started:

• Comprehend and condense the content.
• Examine the material thoroughly.
• Choose a central theme.
• Draw connections among your viewpoints.
• Start with an introductory segment.
• Craft the main body of the essay.
• Conclude effectively.
• Review and refine your writing.

Now you might already have an idea of what the reflection writing is. Yet, before you get to the actual writing process, let's take a look at some steps that a student should take. Their overview is highly likely to help you define your course of action.

First, think of events, places, people, books, and whatnot. Pick a certain object or an event that has had an impact on you, notwithstanding whether it was negative or positive. 

Choose a certain thing that you really feel like talking about at this particular moment in time. Think of the effects it had on you; be ready to describe this experience in detail. 

A reflection essay requires having your thoughts and views on particular subjects on paper. Some students choose to abstain from storytelling here. Still, never forget to add your personality in writing, make your own voice heard. 

• Choose the topic
• Reflect on it
• Make an outline
• Write a draft
• Compose specific body parts
• Make a conclusion

So, let's proceed with answering the key question - how to write a reflective essay? What to start with? What is the structure? 

Although reflective writing has a similar format with any other essay, it has some special features that each writer working on such a piece should bear in mind. In the sections below, you will find answers to all these questions.

We will reveal the crucial components of A-grade worth writing for you. 

Reflective Essay Outline&Structure

As all the types of academic writing, a reflection essay requires a proper outline with all the crucial elements indicated. It will lead a writer throughout the whole piece as well as you as an author through each step of creating the material. 

In this case, it is even more essential, as while writing and reflecting on your own experience, it's risky to lose the train of thoughts and go the wrong direction. 

That is why you must have a clear structure at hand. Following it closely would guarantee a coherent writing piece as a result. 

Let's take a look at the basic parts that you may stick to while working on your reflective essay paragraphs.

This is a pretty common reflective essay scheme. Yet, it is still able to help you follow the topic without any risk of going too far or in a completely wrong direction with this text.

A reflection essay outline always consists of good old traditional parts, which are as follows:

• Introduction;
• Conclusion. 

An Introduction is a part where the main reflective essay thesis must be coherently outlined and presented. Readers should get to know at this point what the whole paper is going to be about. 

In this section, you are also free to convey to the audience a particular impression you might have had on the subject matter. It of crucial importance to be consistent here in this part. Don't forget to mention all the main points in the right order with appropriate linking. 

Example of the thesis: "The moment I'd read "Pride and Prejudice" when I was eleven, it was like my eyes opened for the first time. This masterpiece stirred unconditional love for classics within me that I didn't realize could exist." 

The Body part is usually the core of the work, and it must include all the main ideas. Each sentence must be well presented and clearly structured. 

In this part, a writer is answering the following question. How the event or a situation has changed him, and in what way? It is important to indicate several main effects and describe each one in a separate paragraph. A short summary must be provided by examples as supporting details. 

For example, if you write that something has made you more motivated, give a particular example from life. Note down when you felt motivated and how a certain situation has helped you succeed. 

In the Conclusion section the main points from the body of the text need to be re-translated. Recap the ideas you've already provided, offer some final thoughts. You may finish the paper with a rhetorical question aimed at the audience. You may also contemplate possible future events in your life that might result from the experience you've already covered. 

Having the main aspects covered, let's talk about the actual business now.

Did you like our inspiring Reflective Essay Guide?

For more help, tap into our pool of professional writers and get expert essay editing services!

How to Start a Reflective Essay : Introduction ‍

In the introductory part of your reflective essay, you'll articulate the essay's objective and theme. It's here where you'll present the thesis of your paper and provide the reader with an understanding of the motivations behind your choice of subject.

If you’re stuck wondering “how do I write my essay ”, you are not alone. Completing this assignment is challenging for many students. The pivotal first sentence of the essay is often a stumbling block.

Pondering, how do you write a reflective essay? Remember that the introduction holds the power to captivate or lose your reader. You must enthrall your audience by weaving in a compelling hook like:

*Inspiring quote*Rhetorical question

*Interesting anecdote

*Intriguing fact

Capture attention by highlighting your narrative’s most intriguing facets. Unveil a potent thesis statement, making it succinct yet impactful.

Avoid delving into excessive details. Instead, kindle curiosity, inviting readers to journey through every line. Another approach is offering a glimpse of forthcoming conclusions, creating anticipation.

Check this example, "A childhood incident forced me into premature adulthood." Mastering this art ensures your introduction resonates, leaving readers eager for the rest of your narrative.

How to Write a Body Section

Ideally, the main part should be divided into three paragraphs. Each one should include a separate idea or reflect a particular thought on the matter. Here's how you can do it: 

1. In the first paragraph, mention one reason the subject impressed you and why. Give more details and describe your emotions. This piece is all about reflective writing, so there are no right answers. The core is to offer your original perspective. Speculate, be open, but don't forget about the "conclusion – reason – example" format that is key here. 

2. In the second part you should present the reasoning for choosing to write on a specific subject. Mention what impact it has had on you. Stick to the formula outline in the aforementioned paragraph.

3. In the third part, mention yet another point that you might have on your mind. You should write about how the person, event, book, news, etc. have influenced you and why. 

When reflecting on the subject, remember to ask yourself the following questions. They will give you more food for thought and will help in keeping you in the right direction:

• What have you found out about your personality after this experience? 
• Was it a good or bad experience?
• What are the lessons you've learned from it?
• Why do you think this specific event has happened? Did you make the right decision at a time?
• If you had a chance to change something, what exactly would it be?
• What are your general thoughts on a matter? Was it useful (rewarding?) experience or not? Why?

Bear these reflection examples in mind when you write each body part paragraph. Reflect on every chosen aspect in a separate paragraph.

The Conclusion of a Reflection Essay

There are several ways to finish writing a reflective essay. Let's take a look at some of them:

• Summarize all the points;
• Reflect on the "What if" situation. How would you act with your current experience and the views you have now? Would your actions remain the same, or would you change anything? 
• You can also approach this point in another way. Try to answer the following question in your text - how will you act in the future, if this event repeats? Will you do anything differently? Why?
• Formulate a rhetorical question aimed at your readers. 
• Outline what exactly you've learned from the situation in question. 

Your conclusion should be brief and comprehensive. Every reader should experience the feeling of a story that has been told with all the t's crossed.

Tips for Writing a Good Reflective Essay

• Even though you are working on a personal story, it is still academic writing, which requires appropriate language and sources.  ‍ So, do your research, study the subject from as many viewpoints as possible. Reference relevant sources. This will show your awareness of the topic and the ability to analyze the subject from different angles.
• Don't mention not credible resources like: "a friend of mine thinks," "my mom says," etc. ‍
• To get a deeper understanding of what reflective writing looks like, read some samples, and get used to the format.  ‍
• Use the first-person narrative like "I" or "Me," but don't overwork it. There is no need to get too personal. ‍
• To make your story more captivating and logical, don't forget to mention a turning point that has influenced you.

Reflective Essay Examples

To make you have a more vivid picture of a reflection essay, we've prepared a sample, with a detailed description of its structure. 

The example above demonstrates a coherent story that covers the writer's feelings, one's standpoint, thought on the experience, and life-changing conclusions reached afterward. 

It is spiced with a nice choice of adjectives, so readers may vividly imagine the story and stay focused on it. Pay attention, that there is no extra information given, besides the actual subject and its impact. 

Reflective Essay Topics

A reflective essay topic may be assigned by a teacher or chosen by a student. Since the task is all contemplating personal experience, you may treat such a piece as an excerpt from a diary that you are ready to share with others. 

Choose something that does matter in your book. If you're a bit lost and don't have a clue about the right theme, here're some guiding examples.

Important people:

• Someone, you've enjoyed learning from (nor necessarily a teacher.) It may be your best friend, somebody from your family, etc.
• A house from your childhood;
• A city or a country you've been to;
• An important place that has inspired you.

Life-changing events: ‍

• A time of your biggest achievement\failure;
• An overwhelming experience;
• A concert, a match or a performance that you've visited;
• A significant memory from your childhood;
• An important dialog.
• A movie that has impressed you;
• A book that happened to change your perception;
• A magazine that you used to read a lot;
• Social media platform that has changed your life.

These are some reflective essay ideas, which you may consider covering in your writing. 

Whether you're good at reflecting on your life or not, mastering the skill of self-awareness is crucial. We all experience ups and downs, and it's important to learn from our mistakes and make conscious decisions in our lives.

To become self-aware, be willing to admit failure, accept critical feedback, consider different perspectives, and be open to changing your views. Reflective writing is not just about creating, but also about critical thinking. Be prepared to assess and evaluate your own choices and decisions.

Frequently asked questions

How to write a good reflective essay check out these helpful hacks .

Need to understand how to create a reflective essay? Worry not! Crafting a standout reflective essay is a breeze with these essential tips. Start by capturing attention with a compelling hook. Unveil intriguing aspects of your story, and wrap it up with a potent thesis statement. Keep it concise captivating, and let your personal journey shine through until the end.

How to End a Reflective Essay? Here’s How to Conclude with Impact

A professional custom essay writing service recommends ending your reflective essay with a bang! Wrap up your reflection writing with a strong conclusion. Make it impactful and memorable by summarizing key points, offering final thoughts, providing lessons, and perhaps posing a rhetorical question for more reflection. Keep things concise to ensure your ending leaves a lasting impression on your readers.

Writing a Reflective Essay? Do It Without Losing Your Focus

Discover how to do a reflective essay without losing focus by skillfully crafting a clear introduction that hooks your reader. Ensure a seamless flow by presenting the main ideas coherently in the body of your essay. Conclude with impact, leaving a lasting impression with a strong summary.

Engage your reader throughout, guaranteeing captivation from your opening lines to the concluding salvo. Let your body paragraphs tell an intimate story while your introduction captures the reader's attention.

Featured Posts

How to write a scholarship essay.

How to Write a Movie Review

How‌ ‌to‌ ‌Write‌ ‌an‌ ‌Argumentative‌ ‌Essay

How to Write a Cause and Effect Essay

How to Write an Expository Essay

How to Write an Analytical Essay

A Guide to Reflective Essay Writing

Reflective essays are very similar to other types of writing assignments. The big difference is that they require students to reflect upon their learning experiences and integrate them into their thinking.

In addition, these papers require students to show evidence of critical thinking, synthesis, analysis, evaluation and application.

When writing a reflection paper, it helps to begin with a clear thesis statement. This means that students should begin by identifying a central idea, or theme, that is supported throughout the paper.

Then, students should organize the body of their paper around this central idea. Finally, the conclusion section should summarize both the topic and the central idea. This guide will discuss how to write an excellent reflective essay.

Table of Contents

What Is Reflective Essay Writing?

The term “reflective” refers to the process of reflecting on one’s thoughts and actions. It also implies that students can analyze their own beliefs and attitudes to make changes.

This type of writing assignment requires students to think critically about their ideas and opinions.

This can be difficult for many people because we often have strong feelings about things. However, when writing a reflective essay, students must try to remain objective. They need to keep an open mind and avoid getting caught up in their emotions.

Students who struggle with this task may benefit from using some self-reflection techniques. For example, they could ask themselves questions such as: What am I feeling right now? Why does this matter to me?

Writing a good reflective essay involves more than just stating your opinion on a particular issue. Students should consider all sides of the argument in their reflective essay.

They should also take time to identify what they learned during the semester. By doing so, students can use their reflections to improve their understanding of the subject matter.

Once you understand the purpose of a reflective essay, you can start brainstorming topics for your paper.

There are several different ways to approach a reflective essay. You might want to choose a specific topic that interests you, or you could simply pick something at random.

Regardless of which method you decide to use, remember that you don’t have to stick to one specific format.

Models Of Reflection That Could Be Used

There are different models that you could use to structure your reflective essay. Here are a few of them:

Brookfield’s Model of Reflection

This model was developed by Brookfield (1962). In his book, he suggests that there are four steps involved in the process of reflection.

First, students must define the problem. Then, they should describe their initial reactions to the situation. Next, they should explain why they feel the way they do. Finally, they should provide suggestions for future action.

In other words, students should first identify the problem, then explain their reasons for having those feelings, and finally suggest solutions to the problem.

Atkins & Murphy Model Of Reflection

Atkins and Murphy (1991) developed a model that is based on the work of Brookfield. Their model includes five stages:

1. Identify The Problem

Students must first recognize that they have a problem before they can begin to reflect.

2. Describe The Problem

Students must describe the problem in detail. This step helps them clarify their thoughts and feelings.

3. Analyze The Problem

Students must examine the causes of the problem.

4. Evaluate The Solution

Students must evaluate possible solutions to the problem. These include both positive and negative aspects of each idea.

5. Make A Decision 

Students must choose among various options.

Gibbs Reflective Cycle

The Gibbs cycle (Gibbs, 1965) is another model that can help students organize their ideas for a reflective essay. It consists of three phases:

Phase 1 – Define The Problem  

The first phase of this model requires students to define the problem clearly. They should be able to state exactly what it is that they need to learn about a certain topic.

Phase 2 – Explain The Problem

After defining the problem, students should explain how they feel about it. They should write down any emotions that they experience while thinking about the problem.

Phase 3 – Suggest Solutions 

Once they’ve explained their feelings, students should come up with potential solutions to the problem. They may even find additional problems that they didn’t think of originally.

Johns’ Model Of Reflection

Johns (1993) has developed a model that emphasizes the importance of self-reflection. His model involves six steps:

Step 1: Determine The Goal 

Students must determine their goals for writing a reflective essay. For example, they may want to improve their academic performance or develop better study habits.

Step 2: Establish The Context 

Students must establish the setting in which they will conduct their reflections. This means that they must consider factors such as time constraints, the type of assignment, and the purpose of the assignment.

Step 3: Select An Issue 

Students must select one specific issue to focus on during their reflections.

Step 4: Develop A Plan 

Students must create a plan for conducting their research. They should determine who they will interview, what questions they will ask, where they will look for information, and so forth.

Step 5: Conduct Interviews 

Students must conduct interviews with people who are knowledgeable about the selected issue.

Step 6: Write Your Reflection 

Students must coherently write their reflections.

Kolb’s Reflective Learning Cycle

The Kolb learning cycle (Kolb, 1984) is similar to Johns’ model because it also focuses on the importance of planning and organizing activities.

However, it differs from Johns’ model in that it emphasizes the importance of identifying the learner’s current level of knowledge before beginning a new activity. In other words, students begin by observing themselves and then move on to more abstract concepts.

Students start by becoming aware of their knowledge and skills. Then, they observe themselves using these skills.

Next, they reflect upon their observations and attempt to identify the underlying reasons why they behaved in the way they did. Finally, they use this understanding to change their behavior.

These models will help you develop an outline for your reflective essay. If you’re struggling to figure out where to start, try using one of these models as a starting point.

The Structure Of A Reflective Essay

Reflective essays have three main parts: introduction, body, and conclusion. Each part has its structure. Here is a brief description of each section.

Introduction

This is usually written at the very beginning of the paper. It provides background information about the topic and explains how the student became interested in it.

This is the most important part of the essay. The writer describes his/her thoughts and experiences related to the topic. You can include any number of examples and details here.

This is the final paragraph of the essay. It summarizes the key points discussed in the body of the paper.

Writing Tips & Strategies

There are many different ways to approach a reflective essay. These tips will help you get started.

1. Start With An Idea

Before you even think about writing your reflective essay, you need to know what you want to say.

2. Think About Your Purpose

Your purpose for writing the essay should be clear. What do you hope to accomplish? Why are you doing this project?

3. Plan Ahead

You should have a general idea of what you want to cover in your essay. Make sure that you have enough time to complete it.

4. Be Specific

Be specific when describing events or situations. Don’t just tell readers what happened. Instead, describe the event in detail.

5. Use Examples

Use concrete examples whenever possible. This helps make your ideas easier to understand.

6. Focus On One Issue At A Time

Don’t try to address too many topics at once. Choose one issue and focus on it throughout the entire paper.

7. Write Clearly

Make sure that your writing is easy to read. Avoid long sentences and complex vocabulary.

8. Proofread Before Submission

Read over your work carefully before submitting it. Look for spelling mistakes, grammatical errors, and other problems.

9. Use Appropriate Formatting

Always follow the formatting guidelines provided with your course materials. For example, if you’re writing a research paper, always cite sources within the text.

10. Include References

Include all relevant sources (books, articles, websites) in your bibliography. Remember to provide full citations.

11. Keep It Organized

Keep track of all your sources by using a separate document. Try to keep your notes organized so that you don’t forget anything.

12. Read Other Student Papers

Reading other students’ papers can give you valuable insight into effective writing techniques.

13. Ask Questions

If you have questions about the assignment, ask them! Many professors are willing to help their students learn more about academic writing.

14. Get Feedback

Ask your professor for feedback after completing the assignment. He/she may offer suggestions on how to improve your writing.

15. Revise As Needed

Revising your paper will ensure that you meet all requirements. If you find yourself stuck, take some time off from the task until you feel ready to continue working on it.

How To Write A Reflective Essay

The main goal of a reflective essay is to allow the student to examine his/her own beliefs, attitudes, values, and behaviors.

The following steps outline the process for writing a reflective essay:

Step 1: Define The Topic

The first step is to define the topic. You must identify the question you wish to answer.

Step 2: Select An Approach

Selecting an approach involves deciding whether you will use a personal narrative, a case study, or a comparison-contrast essay.

Step 3: Develop An Outline

An outline is a plan of action that shows where you intend to go with your essay. The outline includes information such as the thesis statement, supporting details, and conclusion.

Step 4: Research The Topic

Researching the topic means gathering information about the subject matter. You may need to conduct interviews, review books, and visit websites.

Step 5: Organize Your Notes

Organizing your notes is important because it allows you to easily locate the information you need.

Step 6: Draft The Introduction

Drafting the introduction requires you to write a summary paragraph that introduces your topic. This introductory paragraph should include the title of the essay, a brief overview of the topic, and any background information.

Step 7: Draft The Body Paragraphs

Drafting the body paragraphs is similar to drafting the introduction. In this section, you develop each point by providing evidence to support your argument.

Step 8: Proofread And Edit

Proofreading and editing are necessary steps to ensure that your essay meets all the criteria required by your instructor.

Writing Tips For Students

We’ve outlined some tips to help you write a high-quality reflective essay below:

1. Know What You Are Trying to Achieve

Before beginning your reflective essay, think carefully about what you want to achieve. Is there a specific purpose? Do you want to make a particular point? Do you want to convince someone else of something?

2. Be Specific

Be sure to be very clear about the topic you choose. Make sure you know exactly what you are trying to say.

3. Use Evidence

Use facts and examples to prove your points. When possible, provide quotations from sources.

4. Avoid Plagiarism

Plagiarism is when you copy another person’s work without giving credit to the original author. It is illegal and unethical.

5. Read Your Paper Carefully

Read your paper over several times before submitting it. Check spelling, grammar, and punctuation.

6. Don’t Rush

Don’t rush through the writing process. Take enough time to do a good job.

Reflective essays are a great way to improve your critical thinking skills and learn how to express yourself more effectively. They also help you analyze your thoughts and feelings.

How to write a reflective essay

Published September 27, 2020. Updated May 19, 2022.

Reflective Essay Definition

A reflective essay is a type of writing that examines an experience from the past by looking through the lens of the present.

Overview of reflective Essay

The purpose of a reflective essay is to explore an impression you had, looking into the reasons for that impression.  A reflective essay is not writing about an experience. It is writing about your reaction to that experience. A reflective essay is not learning from doing. It is about learning from thinking about what you did. A reflective essay is not about trying to influence anyone of anything. It is about drawing the meaning from your own experience. A reflective essay is not about being correct. It is about being honest. A reflective essay is actually designed to help you improve how you think and learn.

Key takeaways

• A reflective essay examines an experience from the past looking through the lens of the present.
• The purpose of a reflective essay is to explore an impression you had, looking into reasons for that impression.
• A reflective essay is very personal: the topic isn’t so much the experience but how YOU felt ABOUT the experience.

What is a reflective essay?

Sometimes it’s easier to explain what something is NOT.

• A reflective essay is not writing about an experience. It’s writing about your reaction to that experience.
• A reflective essay is not learning from doing. It’s about learning from thinking about what you did.
• A reflective essay is not about trying to convince anyone of anything. It’s about drawing meaning from your own experience.
• A reflective essay is not about being correct. It’s about being honest.

Think about the word “reflection.” What you see in the mirror is not you; it is a reflection of you.

Do you realize that you can never really see yourself? You can only see a reflection of yourself.

Every life experience is like that. You never really see the experience as it’s happening. You only see it and learn from it when you see it through reflection.

Also, you cannot see your reflection if you are too close to the mirror. You need to step back in order to see yourself clearly.

Reflective writing is like that.

A reflective essay is a way of writing where you, as the writer, take a step back from your experience and write about it with some distance.

It is a way of writing about the past from the perspective of the present.

You are no longer going through an experience. Rather, you are reflecting on it to see it more clearly.

Worried about your writing? Submit your paper for a Chegg Writing essay check , or for an Expert Check proofreading . Both can help you find and fix potential writing issues.

Purpose of a reflective essay

Regardless of how you feel about writing essays, most essays are designed to help you improve how you write. A reflective essay is actually designed to help you improve how you think and learn.

The reflective essay can be very helpful because writing it helps you process whatever you are writing about. That act of processing leads to deeper understanding.

John Dewey, an American scholar, said: “We do not learn from experience. We learn from reflecting on experience.”

Difference between a personal essay and a reflective essay

More than other essays, a reflection is about YOU. Unlike a personal essay, however, a reflective essay requires you to take a step back from an experience and write about it from a distance.

Where a personal essay might say, “Here is something I did,” a reflective essay would try to answer, “Why did I do what I did?”

A reflective essay is a good place to explore questions like, “How did I feel before and after I did that?”, “If I encountered a similar experience, would I do the same thing again?”, and “What did I learn from this experience?”

As you can see, all of the questions are personal: they are not asking about the experience itself, they are asking how YOU felt ABOUT the experience.

Don’t worry about finding the “right” answer. There is no such thing. Every person’s experience and interpretation is unique, and you are writing about your own. You don’t need to compare it to anyone else’s.

Make sure you write the essay in the first person.

Possible topics for a reflective essay

When choosing your topic for a reflective essay, think about whether it caused an impression on you.  Remember that the topic you write about isn’t the focus – the focus is your interpretation of it.

• A teacher who believed in you
• A friend who betrayed you
• A family member
• A place in nature where you feel most comfortable
• The house you grew up in
• A place you visited for the first time, that felt “familiar”
• Going somewhere very foreign
• A new experience
• Failing or succeeding at something
• Learning something new
• Something you’ve done before, but this time something was different

Questions to ask about your topic

Since you want to go deeper with your understanding of the topic, the questions that you ask yourself as you write are important.

• How did I feel, and why did I feel this way?
• How did I react, and why did I react like this?
• Did this change me? Why or why not?
• Would I do something differently next time?
• Was this experience positive or negative for me?
• What does this mean in my life?
• What did I learn from this experience?

Parts of an essay

Every essay you write, including reflective essays, should have three parts: an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. The reflective essay should have those parts as well.

However, the way a reflective essay is organized might be a little different.

Let’s go through each of those parts for a reflective essay. Each part will include a sample.

Introduction

You want to begin your essay with a hook. A hook is an interesting opening that “catches” your readers and makes them want to read more. Your hook is usually the first sentence.

After you’ve hooked the readers, you want to give some context, or background information. In a reflective essay, use the introduction to mention the experience that you will be writing about. Think of each sentence in your intro as a stepping point. Each sentence brings you closer to your thesis statement.

Once you’ve given some context, write a thesis statement, which tells the readers exactly what they’re going to read about. For a reflective essay, the thesis statement should give the readers an idea of the impression the experience made on you. Think of it like a map to the rest of your essay.

Sample introduction

Can you identify the hook, background information, and thesis statement in this sample?

I had seen pictures of the Mona Lisa my whole life. Last summer, I went to Paris and got to see the original painting in the Louvre Museum. As I stood looking at the Mona Lisa, I really was seeing her for the first time. What I found surprising is that I felt the woman in the painting was seeing me as well. I actually felt a connection to the painting.

A typical essay will have from one to three body paragraphs, though you can write as many as you need (or as many as your teacher assigns you). Regardless of how many body paragraphs you have, they will all be organized in a similar manner.

Start with a topic sentence to show your reader what is coming up. This is a general sentence that gives an overview of that paragraph. Since your thesis statement should be about the impression your experience made on you, each topic sentence should be a reason for that impression.

The body paragraph should explain the reason for your impression in depth.

End a body paragraph with a sentence that summarizes what you wrote or that leads into the next paragraph.

Sample body paragraphs

Can you identify the topic sentences? Do the body paragraphs discuss the reasons in depth

I first felt a connection because of the Mona Lisa’s expression. Her face looks calm and seems to give nothing away. Every time I had seen the picture before, I felt like her expression was empty, with nothing behind it. As if the subject was a rich, carefree woman who was just sitting to have her portrait painted. When I stood in front of the original masterpiece, though, her expression opened up. At the time, all I knew was that I was seeing something I hadn’t seen before. Now I know that I saw a woman trying to get through life while feeling like she didn’t know what she was doing. I have often felt the same way. I may look calm to the outside world, but I am trying to hide anxiety. Now I recognize that the Mona Lisa was doing the same thing.

The second reason I felt a connection was because of the Mona Lisa’s posture. The subject looks like she’s sitting in a chair. Her body is facing to the left, but her face is looking at the viewer. It seems as if she wants to go in one direction but is forced to face another. I have felt that way. Like when my parents suggest which future would be better for me. Like when my friends want to do something I’m not comfortable doing. Like when I want to stay home and read but my boyfriend wants us to go to a party. Which way should I go?

Lastly, I felt a connection to the background in the painting. Behind the Mona Lisa is a natural vista with a road and mountains and a lake. The landscape itself seems improbable. Why is there a road when there is no other sign of life? There are no buildings or people in the background. Having the Mona Lisa placed in such a strange background adds to the feeling of anxiety and uncertainty. Again, it seems like the Mona Lisa is talking to me: “Do you ever feel like you don’t know where you are? Or where you belong?” Yes, I feel that way a lot.

Before you turn in that paper, don’t forget to cite your sources in APA format , MLA format , or a style of your choice.

This is how your essay ends and includes the last impression your reader takes away.

In a reflective essay, you may use your conclusion to give closure to the experience you’re writing about.

Add any insights to explain your reasons for your impression.

Finally, remember that a reflection is a way to write about the past from the perspective of the present. Make a clear connection from the past to the present.

Sample conclusion

Does this conclusion give a sense of closure? Does it add any insights? Does it make a connection between past and present?

That summer in Paris was supposed to be an exciting trip for me, but it was actually a difficult time in my life. I was trying to decide what university to go to, what major I should choose, and whether my boyfriend and I should break up or try a long-distance relationship. I had questions brewing in my head and it was difficult to appreciate the beauty of Paris. Seeing the Mona Lisa at that time in my life made me feel at peace. Now I understand what I saw in her that made me feel connected: I saw someone else with doubt and uncertainty, but I knew she would be okay in the end, and so will I. 

Example reflective essay on the Mona Lisa

Example reflective essay on environmental troubles.

By Halina Stolar. Halina has a master’s degree in teaching and taught English as a second language and writing for almost 15 years overseas. She now works as a freelance writer, and geeks out over grammar for fun.

Common Writing Assignments, Apps & Tests

• Analytical Essay
• AP synthesis Essay
• Argumentative Essay
• Book Report
• Compare and Contrast Essay
• Cause and Effect Essay
• College Admissions Essay
• Critical Analysis Essay
• Definition Essay
• Descriptive Essay
• Dissertation
• Explanatory Essay
• Expository Essay
• Informative Essay
• Narrative Essay
• Opinion Essay
• Personal Essay
• Persuasive Essay
• Reflective Essay
• Research Paper
• Rhetorical Analysis
• Scholarship Essay
• Short Essay
• Thesis Paper

What’s included with a Chegg Writing subscription

• Unlimited number of paper scans
• Plagiarism detection: Check against billions of sources
• Expert proofreading for papers on any subject
• Grammar scans for 200+ types of common errors
• Automatically create & save citations in 7,000+ styles
• Cancel subscription anytime, no obligation

• Jump to menu
• Student Home
• Accept your offer
• How to enrol
• Student ID card
• Set up your IT
• Orientation Week
• Fees & payment
• Academic calendar
• Special consideration
• Transcripts
• The Nucleus: Student Hub
• Referencing
• Essay writing
• Learning abroad & exchange
• Professional development & UNSW Advantage
• Employability
• Financial assistance
• International students
• Equitable learning
• Postgraduate research
• Health Service
• Events & activities
• Emergencies
• Volunteering
• Clubs and societies
• Accommodation
• Health services
• Sport and gym
• Arc student organisation
• Security on campus
• Maps of campus
• Careers portal
• Change password

Reflective Writing Guide

A great deal of your time at university will be spent thinking; thinking about what people have said, what you have read, what you yourself are thinking and how your thinking has changed. It is generally believed that the thinking process involves two aspects: reflective thinking and critical thinking. They are not separate processes; rather, they are closely connected (Brookfield 1987).

Figure 1: The Thinking Process (adapted from Mezirow 1990, Schon 1987, Brookfield 1987)

Reflective thinking

Reflection is: 

• a form of personal response to experiences, situations, events or new information.
• a 'processing' phase where thinking and learning take place.

There is neither a right nor a wrong way of reflective thinking, there are just questions to explore.

Figure 1 shows that the reflective thinking process starts with you. Before you can begin to assess the words and ideas of others, you need to pause and identify and examine your own thoughts.

Doing this involves revisiting your prior experience and knowledge of the topic you are exploring. It also involves considering how and why you think the way you do. The examination of your beliefs, values, attitudes and assumptions forms the foundation of your understanding. 

Reflective thinking demands that you recognise that you bring valuable knowledge to every experience. It helps you therefore to recognise and clarify the important connections between what you already know and what you are learning. It is a way of helping you to become an active, aware and critical learner.

What is reflective writing?

Reflective writing is:.

• documenting your response to experiences, opinions, events or new information
• communicating your response to thoughts and feelings
• a way of exploring your learning
• an opportunity to gain self-knowledge
• a way to achieve clarity and better understanding of what you are learning
• a chance to develop and reinforce writing skills
• a way of making meaning out of what you study

Reflective writing is not:

• just conveying information, instruction or argument
• pure description, though there may be descriptive elements
• straightforward decision or judgement, e.g. about whether something is right or wrong, good or bad
• simple problem-solving
• a summary of course notes
• a standard university essay.

See next: How do I write reflectively?

Essay and assignment writing guide.

• Essay writing basics
• Essay and assignment planning
• Answering assignment questions
• Editing checklist
• Writing a critical review
• Annotated bibliography
• How do I write reflectively?
• Examples of reflective writing
• ^ More support

How to Write a Reflective Essay Fast and Easy

So, you’re here to learn how to write a reflective essay. Great!

There’s something special in this paper: While it remains formal because of its academic nature, a reflection essay is also about the author’s thoughts and emotions, which makes it less formal than other essay types. With that in mind, it’s critical to find and support that “formality” balance when writing.

In this article, we’ll reveal the types of reflection papers, explain their formatting rules, and describe how to organize the process of reflective essay writing step by step.

What is a Reflection Paper?

A reflection paper is an essay where you express, analyze, and evaluate your thoughts on a particular topic.

The purpose is to train and demonstrate your critical thinking and analytical skills. When a teacher asks you to write a reflection essay, they expect you to develop the ability to express thoughts and emotions by analyzing them.

Topics are different:

You can write a reflective essay on a book, article, or movie. Or, feel free to share your reflections on a person or an event that has influenced you. You may also want to analyze your previous works in a reflective essay, to evaluate them and specify the ways for improvement.

The types of reflection papers are two:

• Personal , aka experiential. It’s about the reflections on your personal experiences and their transformations to the learning ones.
• Reading , aka critical. Here you share reflections on other materials, such as books , films, articles, music, any other work of art, etc.

Reflection Paper Format: Before Writing

• Choose a topic
• Create a mind map
• Write an outline

The process of reflective essay writing consists of several steps, three of which relate to a pre-writing stage. What does it mean?

Before you sit and write a draft, it’s critical to choose a promising topic (if you didn’t get any particular pre-assigned), come up with a reflection question you’ll address, and write a detailed outline so it would be fast and easy to write a reflective essay step by step.

Ready? Let’s begin the journey!

Still in doubt or have no time to examine all the details?

1 — Choosing a Topic for a Reflection Essay

When students ask how to write a good reflective essay, they forget that a properly chosen topic equals around 70% of success.

In school or college, teachers often assign particular topics for reflection papers. If nothing assigned, it’s you who chooses a subject to describe, analyze, and evaluate your thoughts and emotions on it.

Brainstorm topic ideas:

Think of a material (a book, a movie, etc.) or an event that could become the topic for your essay. Remember that you will need to analyze it, not only describe it: Do your best to choose topics of your interests. Consider the following questions:

• What experience would you like to share?
• What have you learned from it?
• Why has it influenced you so much? What impressed you most?

The goal is to brainstorm several possible topics with short summaries of your experience on each. Thus you’ll see which topic sounds most promising and thesis-friendly.

What can become a topic for your reflective essay?

• A significant place where you’ve been
• Some one-time experience you had
• Any repeated experience of yours
• Life-changing events: a special day, a time when you failed, the moment when you overcame a fear, a memory, a conversation, etc.
• Something you’ve heard, seen, read, or watched
• A person who influenced you: a parent, siblings, a friend, a teacher (life coach), you name it!

2 — Mind Mapping Your Future Essay

Now that you have a topic, it’s time to create a mind map for your future essay: That’s when you decide on a reflection question. How will you organize and connect ideas into a clear thesis and cohesive picture?

First, write a thesis.

Now, identify the main arguments you’ll use to support it for readers to understand the evolution of your experiences and thoughts. Group the arguments into the future paragraphs of your reflective essay; decide on their logical sequence.

Such a map will help you better understand the structure of your future essay and ensure it will have all five components required for reflection papers: DEEAA .

• Description: What happened
• Emotions: Your reaction to that experience
• Evaluation: How valuable it was for you, the influence of that experience
• Analysis: Lessons you’ve learned
• Action: What you’re going to do with that experience

Mention all five in your essay’s mind map so you won’t miss anything when writing.

3 — How to Write a Reflective Essay Outline

To make the writing process easier, prepare a reflective essay outline beforehand. It’s like a plan for your future work: It mentions all the elements so you won’t forget any critical information while writing.

Below is a template you can use. (Sure thing, you’ll need to adjust it to your topic, paper type, and statements you’ll describe and analyze.) As well as most other college papers, reflective essays consist of an introduction, 2-4 body paragraphs, and a conclusion:

Reflection paper format:

Before writing, it would also help to know how to format a reflection paper. While your teacher may prescribe different requirements you’ll need to follow, the general format rules for reflective essays are:

• Length: between 300 and 700 words
• Text size: 12 points
• Margins: 1 inch
• Fonts: Times New Roman or Arial (Calibri sometimes)
• Citation: APA or Chicago
• Spaces: Double

How to Write a Reflective Essay

• Introduction

The pre-writing stage is finally over! Now it’s time to write a draft of your reflective essay. Below are your practical tips on crafting its every part:

1 — How to Start a Reflective Essay

An introduction paragraph of your reflective essay consists of three parts: a hook, background information on the topic, and a thesis statement. If you have a fear of a blank page or don’t know how to start your essay, it’s okay to write a body first: When you’ve covered the main part, it will be easier to craft a compelling introduction for your work.

How to start a reflective paper:

• Make your introduction catchy yet informative. Start with a hook to get people interested in reading your work: ask a question, share a surprising fact, make a controversial statement, etc.
• After the hook, write one or two sentences describing your topic and providing the audience with some background information: what you’ll discuss, your expectations, etc.
• Finish your introduction with a thesis statement. It’s a core element of every essay; reveal your position on the topic and tell how you’ll explain it throughout the paper.

2 — Writing a Reflective Essay Body

A reflective essay body is 2-4 paragraphs where you explain, analyze, and evaluate your thoughts and feelings regarding the topic. Here you’ll use arguments (one per paragraph) and supporting evidence to prove your thesis statement.

The must-mention elements of your essay’s body:

• Evaluation: What did you like or dislike about the experience you describe in the essay?
• Analysis and criticism: What you’ve learned from the experience; what alternative opinions do you disagree with?
• Explanation: What causes and effects led you to such reflection; how may it influence the future you?

3 — How to Conclude a Reflective Paper

A final paragraph of a reflective paper is about summarizing the points, restating the thesis, and reflecting on your knowledge gaps.

Mention the core aspects of your essay body, say what you still don’t know about the topic, and write your ideas on how to change that. Be concise: A reflective essay conclusion is a paragraph of 3-5 sentences, so craft it in the best way possible.

Dos and Don’ts of Reflection Essay Writing

As you already know, we ask our professional writers for practical advice on most topics we cover on this blog. This time, we asked them to share some dos and don’ts for students to consider when writing a reflection essay.

Here they go:

And here go some more tips on how to write a successful reflective essay:

• Share your experience, be honest and sincere
• Provide details, use your narration skills
• Analyze and evaluate your experience
• Illustrate your points with examples
• Stick to the topic and remain concise: Remember you have up to 700 words only
• Maintain a professional tone

Now that you know how to write a good reflective essay for a university, it’s time to go and craft one for your professor to get wowed and give you the highest grade! Follow the tips from this guide, and you’ll write an essay fast.

Sure thing, reflective papers aren’t about academic or college life only. We all share reflections and opinions on social media or personal blogs, so we believe this post has come in handy for every active online user.

• Essay samples
• Essay writing
• Writing tips

Recent Posts

• Writing the “Why Should Abortion Be Made Legal” Essay: Sample and Tips
• 3 Examples of Enduring Issue Essays to Write Yours Like a Pro
• Writing Essay on Friendship: 3 Samples to Get Inspired
• How to Structure a Leadership Essay (Samples to Consider)
• What Is Nursing Essay, and How to Write It Like a Pro

• How to Order

Reflective Essay Writing

A Complete Guide To Writing A Reflective Essay

16 min read

People also read

How to Create a Reflective Essay Outline | Easy Guide with Examples

Best Reflective Essay Topics For Your Paper

Thought and reflection are a major part of our inner lives. Whenever we engage with art and literature or experience anything novel, we tend to reflect on it later.

What if we write our reflections down in a structured way? That is a reflective essay. 

Among various types of essays , reflective essays stand out for being the most personal form of writing. Reflective writing lets you explore your thoughts and experiences about something and gain profound insights into yourself and the world around you.

So how can you write a great reflective essay? Read on to understand reflective essays better with examples and get useful tips.

• 1. What is a Reflective Essay?
• 2. Types of Reflection Essays
• 3. How To Start A Reflective Essay?
• 4. How to Write a Reflective Essay?
• 5. Reflective Essay Examples with Analysis 
• 6. Reflective Essay Format
• 7. Tips for Writing a Good Reflective Essays
• 8. Reflective Essay Topics

What is a Reflective Essay?

A reflective essay is a type of writing where a writer explores their thoughts, feelings, and observations about a personal experience. These essays are deeply subjective, personal, and introspective. 

At its core, a reflective essay prompts you to answer the question: 

"How did a particular experience impact me?" 

Unlike narrative essays or descriptive writing , reflective essays are not just about recounting events. The goal is to analyze and interpret the event with your unique perspective and insights. 

Purpose of Writing a Reflective Essay 

Here are the primary purposes of writing a reflective essay:

• Self-Discovery: Helps to understand your thoughts, feelings, and experiences on a deeper level.
• Critical Thinking: Encourages analysis and evaluation of personal experiences and their impact.
• Communication Skills: Improves ability to articulate thoughts and experiences clearly.
• Perspective Taking: Provides an opportunity to view experiences from different angles.
• Problem-Solving: Aids in understanding challenges and developing strategies to overcome them.
• Goal Setting: Helps to set and refine future goals based on past experiences.
• Academic Insight: Connects personal experiences with theoretical knowledge and academic learning.

Tough Essay Due? Hire Tough Writers!

Types of Reflection Essays

Understanding the different types of reflection essays can help writers choose the most appropriate format for their reflective writing. Here are the main types of reflection essays:

So what is that structured approach to writing a reflective essay? Read below.

How To Start A Reflective Essay?

Here is a step-by-step process to start a reflective essay:

Brainstorm and Choose a Topic

Begin by brainstorming a specific event, experience, or topic to reflect upon. It could be a personal experience, a book you've read, a class you've taken, or a significant life event.

Here are some helpful tips for choosing a topic:

• Think about your personal experiences and select a topic that resonates with you and offers room for reflection. 
• Consider which one is most relevant to the purpose of your reflective essay. 
• Choose a topic that holds personal significance and allows you to explore and convey meaningful insights. You can check out our reflective essay topics blog for some ideas!
• Once you've selected your topic, brainstorm potential titles for your essay. Make sure your essay title captures the essence of your reflection. 

Reflect Deeply & Gather Your Thoughts

Unlike other types of academic essays, reflection papers do not demand research or gathering sources. The source material for the essay can be found in your own thoughts. 

You can write down your thoughts in the form of a bulleted list, mind mapping, or other forms of note-taking. Take time to immerse yourself in the experience and consider its various aspects, including:

• Specific details, emotions, and observations from the event or experience.
• Your initial reactions and thoughts at the time. Recall how the experience affected you and what you learned.

You don’t have to write down complete sentences yet, you can simply note down keywords and phrases.

Make an Outline

To ensure a coherent and logical essay, organize the points you’ve gathered in an outline. A reflective essay follows the basic five-paragraph essay format. The template below shows how to structure your reflective essay: 

This is the last step of your pre-writing preparation. For more details on structuring your essay, read our reflective essay outline blog. 

With an organized outline in hand, you now have everything you need to start writing.

How to Write a Reflective Essay?

Writing a reflective essay is easier with a structured approach, helping you express insights clearly. Stick to your organization and be concise. Here's how to write each section:

Step 1. Write Down Introduction

Start your essay introduction with a powerful hook . This could be a quote, a question, or an anecdote. Next is to provide background information to give your readers a clear understanding of the experience you will be reflecting on.

Lastly, state the main idea or thesis statement of your reflection. This should outline what aspects of the experience you will be discussing and why it is significant to you.

Step 2. Develop Body Paragraphs 

Start your reflective essay with a catchy topic sentence . Provide a clear and detailed description of the experience or event you are reflecting upon. Set the stage by answering the basic questions: What, when, where, and who?

Share the most significant aspects of the experience. Consider the sensory details, the environment, the people involved, and other aspects. This will help your readers immerse themselves in the situation. 

Step 3: Reflect on the Experience

After describing your experience and emotions, take a moment to reflect further. Consider the broader implications of the experience, both personally and possibly for others. 

Explore any connections to larger themes or concepts. This deeper reflection adds depth and meaning to your essay.

Step 4. Conclude Your Reflective Essay

Being writing your essay conclusion by summarizing the main points of your reflection. Discuss how you plan to apply what you have learned from this experience in the future. Consider how it will influence your actions, decisions, or interactions moving forward.

End with a final reflection or thought, leaving the reader with something to ponder or consider.

Step 5: Proofread and Revise

After completing your first draft, take a break before revising. Returning to your essay with fresh eyes will help you identify areas for improvement. During the revision process:

• Check for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.
• Ensure clarity and coherence in your writing.
• Review the flow of your essay to ensure that it logically progresses from introduction to conclusion. Paragraphs should be connected to each other through transition words and phrases.
• Trim unnecessary or repetitive content and add details or insights where needed.

By following these five steps, you'll be well on your way to crafting a well-organized and impactful reflective essay.

Reflective Essay Examples with Analysis 

Although you now know how to write a reflective essay, you should read some examples before you start writing. Reading the reflective essay samples below will help you get a feel of this type of writing. 

Reflective Essay About Life Experience Sample

What this essay does well:

• Engages readers with descriptive storytelling and authentic introspection.
• Clearly articulates the impact of the experience on the author's perspective.
• Ensures coherence and progression, guiding readers through the narrative smoothly.

How this essay could be improved:

• Strengthen analysis by integrating academic or scholarly perspectives.
• Enhance narrative depth with anecdotes or instances from interactions at the shelter.
• Provide tangible goals or commitments for future engagement in volunteer or social justice endeavors.

Reflective Essay Example

• The essay offers a structured reflection, progressing logically from the introduction to the conclusion.
• The writer effectively analyzes their thoughts and feelings, showing insight into personal growth.
• The essay presents a compelling narrative of overcoming challenges, keeping the reader engaged.
• Adding anecdotes would clarify key points and deepen the reader's understanding.
• Exploring how experiences impact personal and professional growth could enhance the essay's depth.
• Strengthening the conclusion by linking back to the introduction and emphasizing growth and resilience would improve coherence.

We have also compiled some examples in the form of PDFs. Check them out and download for free: 

Reflective Essay Sample - Reflections on Reading a Book

Reflective Essay Example - A Visit to a Historical Place

Reflective Essay Writing Quiz

Reflective Essay Format

Follow the guidelines below to ensure your essay format is visually appealing and well-organized.

• Font and Size: Use a clear font like Arial or Times New Roman, size 12.
• Margins: Set 1-inch margins on all sides.
• Spacing: Double-space the entire essay, including between paragraphs.
• Alignment: Align text to the left; don't justify.
• Title: Center a descriptive title at the top, in the title case.
• Header: Include your name, instructor's name, course title, and date, left-aligned. Add page numbers if required, right-aligned.
• References: Include a separate page if citing sources. Follow the citation style suggested by your course coordinator.

Tips for Writing a Good Reflective Essays

Only following the writing steps can help you write a good essay. But to make it even better, you should do something extra. Here are some writing tips that can help you polish your reflective writing.

• Pick a Special Moment:

Choose one moment that really meant something to you. Focusing on just one thing can make your writing more powerful.

• Use the 'What, So What, Now What' Method:

Start by describing what happened. Then, explain why it was important. Finally, think about how it will affect your future.

• Ask Yourself Questions:

Think about what happened, how it made you feel, and why. What did you learn from it? How did it change you?

• Mix Theory and Practice:

If it fits, connect your personal experiences with things you've learned in school or at work. This adds depth to your writing.

• Use Reflective Words:

Use phrases like "I learned" or "This made me think" to show you're reflecting. It helps readers see how you're growing.

• Share Your Thoughts:

Use quotes or write down what you were thinking during the moment. This makes your writing more real and helps readers understand your feelings.

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That's our Job

Reflective Essay Topics

Reflective essays can be written on a variety of topics. Here are some ideas you can write about: 

• Engaging with Art: Reflect on your experience of reading a book, watching a documentary etc. 
• A Life-Changing Journey: Reflect lessons learned from a trip or adventure.
• Mentorship and Learning: Reflect on the influence of a particular teacher, mentor, or role model on your life. 
• Overcoming a Challenge: Write about a challenging experience or obstacle you've faced 
• Life Milestones: Write about a major life event, such as graduating from school, getting married, or becoming a parent, etc.
• Career Transitions: Share your reflections on transitioning between careers or jobs. 
• A Turning Point: Reflect on a specific moment or decision in your life that marked a turning point. 
• Relationships: Explore the dynamics of a significant friendship or relationship.
• Ethical Dilemmas: Discuss a moral or ethical dilemma you faced and how you navigated it. 
• Volunteer or Community Service: Share your experiences with community service. 

Reflective essays serve as powerful instruments for self-discovery. It allows you to delve into your thoughts and experiences and share them with others in a meaningful way. 

By following the steps, tips, and, examples above, you can explore the richness of your own experiences and engage others along the way. Trying to write a reflective essay can even become another one of your amazing experiences! So, embrace authenticity, engage your readers, and inspire those who read your words.

Need help writing a reflective essay? Don’t worry!

We understand the significance of these reflective journeys, and we've expert writers to assist you. At our reflective essay writing service , our team of writing professionals is dedicated to helping you craft insightful and impactful essays that meet your custom requirements.

So contact our paper writer service now!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the parts of a typical reflective essay.

A reflective essay typically consists of three main parts: introduction, body, and conclusion. The introduction sets the stage for the reflection, the body delves into personal experiences and insights, and the conclusion summarizes key points and reflections.

How can you include references in a reflection paper?

References can be included in a reflection paper by citing sources using the appropriate citation style (e.g., APA, MLA) within the text or in a separate reference list at the end of the paper. This helps support your reflections with evidence and acknowledges the ideas of others.

How long should a reflection paper be?

A reflection paper is usually around 500 to 1000 words long, depending on the specific assignment requirements. It should be concise enough to focus on key experiences and insights while providing enough depth for meaningful reflection.

What does a reflection paper consist of?

A reflection paper consists of a description of the experience or topic being reflected upon, an analysis of thoughts and feelings related to the experience, and reflections on lessons learned and future implications. It provides a structured framework for exploring personal growth and learning.

What is the main point of a reflective essay?

The main point of a reflective essay is to introspectively explore personal experiences, emotions, and insights. It aims to foster self-awareness, growth, and learning by reflecting on past experiences and considering their implications for the future.

Write Essay Within 60 Seconds!

Caleb S. has been providing writing services for over five years and has a Masters degree from Oxford University. He is an expert in his craft and takes great pride in helping students achieve their academic goals. Caleb is a dedicated professional who always puts his clients first.

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That’s our Job!

Keep reading

Reflective Essay

Reflective Essay - Writing Steps with Examples, Tips, and Topics

Published on: Sep 21, 2020

Last updated on: Jul 23, 2024

People also read

Best Reflective Essay Topics & Ideas for Students

Reflective Essay Outline - Samples & Template

Share this article

A reflective essay is a form of writing where the writer reflects on a personal experience. Have you been assigned one but don’t know how to write? 

Don’t fret! 

Read on to learn in simple steps and follow the useful tips and examples given below. By the end of the blog, you will know everything you need to write an excellent reflective essay.

So let’s dive in!

On This Page On This Page -->

What is a Reflective Essay?

A reflective essay is a type of essay where the writer describes a personal experience or event that they observed or examined. Reflective writing involves thinking or pondering about a specific topic and writing your thoughts.

The content of a reflective essay is subjective. This means, the writer discusses the topic from their own personal point of view.  

The writer presents their thoughts and reflections in a structured and coherent manner. It combines elements of storytelling, analysis, and introspection to create a narrative that engages the reader and offers valuable insights.

What is the Purpose of Reflective Writing? 

Self-reflective essays are often used as an opportunity to explore your thoughts and feelings more deeply. The main goals of reflective writing are to;

• Make a connection between yourself and the text 
• Analyze what you have heard, read, or seen
• Write subjectively and help identify your interests
• Think about what you have learned.
• Develop your critical and narrative skills

Here is a video that reflective writing in simple terms:

How to Write a Reflective Essay? 

Reflective essays can be very difficult to write. However, following the steps below can make your writing process easier and more effective.

• Select a Meaningful Topic

The first step in writing a great reflective essay is to choose a good topic. You need to do a lot of brainstorming, mind mapping , and a bit of research to come up with a good topic. 

Choose a topic that holds personal significance for you. It could be a specific event, a challenging situation, a memorable encounter, or a period of personal growth. Select a topic that allows for deep introspection and provides ample material for reflection.

• Reflect and Introspect

Ponder on your chosen topic and explore your thoughts, feelings, and reactions associated with it. 

Ask yourself probing questions, such as " How did this experience impact me? " or " What did I learn from this situation? " This introspective phase forms the foundation of your essay, allowing you to dig deep and extract valuable insights.  

• Develop a Clear Thesis Statement

Craft a concise and focused thesis statement that encapsulates the main point or lesson learned from your reflection. 

This statement will serve as a guiding principle for your essay, ensuring that your writing remains coherent and purposeful. 

• Chart an Outline

Create an outline that organizes your thoughts and provides a logical structure for your essay. 

Divide your essay into sections including the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Outline the main ideas, experiences, and reflections you plan to include in each section.

Want to learn more about how to create an outline? Here is our comprehensive reflective essay outline guide for you.

• Write a Catchy Introduction

Start your essay with an attention-grabbing opening that sets the tone and introduces the topic to the reader. 

Engage your audience by sharing a captivating anecdote, posing a thought-provoking question, or presenting a compelling quote. Clearly state your thesis to provide a roadmap for your reflective journey.

• Write Main Body Paragraphs

In the body paragraphs, vividly describe the experiences or events that shaped your reflection. Use sensory details and specific examples to paint a clear picture for your readers.

After describing the experience, delve into the reflection and analysis phase. Explore the significance of the experience and its impact on your personal growth, beliefs, or worldview. 

Analyze the reasons behind your thoughts, emotions, and reactions. 

• Provide a Thoughtful Conclusion

Wrap up your essay by summarizing your main points and reinforcing the significance of your reflection. Share the insights and lessons you gained from the reflection process. 

For instance, what did you learn about yourself? How did this experience contribute to your personal development? 

Be honest and authentic in your reflections, demonstrating vulnerability and self-awareness. Don't present new information here, but summarize everything that happened in the essay.

• Revise and Edit

Once you have completed your first draft, revise and edit your essay for clarity, coherence, and grammar. Pay attention to the flow of your ideas, sentence structure, and word choice. 

Seek feedback from peers or mentors to gain different perspectives and refine your essay further. This way, your final draft will turn out to be an interesting and valuable piece of work.

Paper due? Why Suffer? That's our job.

Reflective Essay Structure

The structure of the reflective essay is the same as other types of essays. It contains an introduction, several body paragraphs, and a conclusion. 

Here is the basic reflective essay format that you can use:

Let's learn about the components of a reflective essay in depth:

Reflective Essay Introduction 

A reflective essay also starts with an introduction, like all other essays. An essay introduction should be brief but relevant to the topic. In this part, you can give a general overview of the topic to the reader.

Start your essay with a strong hook statement . The hook statement is the first thing that the reader reads in the introduction part.

In the introduction part, state the thesis statement but don't give too much information in this statement.  

Remember that in this part, only give a brief overview and don't write in-depth information.

Reflective Essay Body Paragraphs

Writing the body paragraphs is the hardest part of the reflective essay. Some writers spend a lot of time writing body paragraphs. If the outline is not created well, then writing the body paragraphs is a time-consuming process.

It is the most important part of the essay and follows the proper chronological order. Describe the main issues in order related to the described event.

The body paragraphs are well-focused, and it is not a summary of your experience. Each body paragraph end with a concluding sentence.     

Reflective Essay Conclusion  

The conclusion is the last part of the essay. In this part, you should provide a summary of the entire essay. Moreover, do not repeat the same point again and again.   

Make sure the conclusion of the essay is powerful and encourages the readers to do further research. In this concluding part, restate the thesis statement, and no need to add new ideas. 

Tips for Writing a Reflective Essay

Here are some writing tips that can make your reflective essay even better, so try following these in your essay:

• Choose the right topic for the essay, make sure that you have enough information
• Use an engaging and narrative tone throughout the essay with an overall emotion or theme in mind.
• Try to make the essay credible and informative
• Reflect critically on the significance of the experiences and analyze the reasons behind your thoughts, emotions, and reactions.
• Incorporate relevant theories, concepts, or academic frameworks to deepen your analysis.
• Be authentic and honest in sharing your insights and lessons learned from the reflection process.
• Connect your personal experiences to broader contexts or universal themes to create a relatable and impactful essay.
• Support your thesis statement with strong examples and arguments.

Ref lective Essay For mat

Two commonly used formatting styles for academic writing are the APA and the MLA styles. Each style has its unique guidelines for formatting, including structure, citations, and references. 

APA Style Reflective Essay Format

Formatting your essay in APA requires the following:

• Times New Roman 
• Double line-spacing
• 1" margins 
• Page number on the top-right 
• Include the Title Page, Main Body, and References.

MLA Style Reflective Essay Format 

The MLA style recommends the following formatting guidelines:

• Last name and page number in the top-right
• "Works Cited" section on the last page

Reflective Essay Examples

Check out some reflective essay samples that can give you a better understanding of the reflective essay.    

Reflective Essay Example for High School

Personal Reflective Essay Example

Reflective Essay Outline

Example of Reflective Essay on Learning Experience

Reflective Essay Example About Life Experience

Reflective Essay Topics

In a reflective essay, you write about your personal experience, thoughts, and significant moments of your life. Choosing the right topic for the essay sometimes becomes a challenging task, but here are some ideas that can help you out.  

• A surprise that you prepared for someone
• The first thing you think of in the morning
• When someone's words made you cry
• When you laughed uncontrollably with someone
• Swimming in a mountain lake
• The experience of an earthquake or natural disasters
• A vacation place that you liked in particular
• Crossing a bridge and looking out over the water.
• Your favorite persuasive essay topic
• Place where you feel safe

Need more topics to get your thoughts running? Here are more reflective essay topics to help you out!

Writing a reflective essay can be a transformative experience as you discover your own thoughts and feelings along the way. By following the writing steps and tips, you can enhance this experience by writing an essay that is interesting, informative, and engaging. 

So don't hesitate to start writing a reflective paper today! You've got everything you need.

Still, if you are in a race against time or can't write your essay for other reasons, don't despair. The auto essay writer at CollegeEssay.org is here to help you out!

We also have a team of expert writers ready to assist you 24/7. Whether you need help with refining your ideas, structuring your essay, or polishing the final draft, we can lend our expertise.

So hire our custom writing service  to receive customized and professional reflective essays within the deadline!

Frequently Asked Questions

How many paragraphs are in a reflective essay.

In a reflective essay, you should follow a 5-paragraph format. However, you can add more paragraphs, and it depends on your chosen topic.

What is the goal of a reflective essay?

Writing a reflective essay aims to explore how they have changed and learned from their experiences.

Barbara P (Literature, Marketing)

Barbara is a highly educated and qualified author with a Ph.D. in public health from an Ivy League university. She has spent a significant amount of time working in the medical field, conducting a thorough study on a variety of health issues. Her work has been published in several major publications.

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That’s our Job!

Keep reading

Legal & Policies

• Privacy Policy
• Cookies Policy
• Terms of Use
• Refunds & Cancellations
• Our Writers
• Success Stories
• Our Guarantees
• Affiliate Program
• Referral Program
• AI Essay Writer

Disclaimer: All client orders are completed by our team of highly qualified human writers. The essays and papers provided by us are not to be used for submission but rather as learning models only.

• Cambridge Libraries

Study Skills

Reflective practice toolkit, introduction.

• What is reflective practice?
• Everyday reflection
• Models of reflection
• Barriers to reflection
• Free writing
• Reflective writing exercise
• Bibliography

Many people worry that they will be unable to write reflectively but chances are that you do it more than you think!  It's a common task during both work and study from appraisal and planning documents to recording observations at the end of a module. The following pages will guide you through some simple techniques for reflective writing as well as how to avoid some of the most common pitfalls.

What is reflective writing?

Writing reflectively involves critically analysing an experience, recording how it has impacted you and what you plan to do with your new knowledge. It can help you to reflect on a deeper level as the act of getting something down on paper often helps people to think an experience through.

The key to reflective writing is to be analytical rather than descriptive. Always ask why rather than just describing what happened during an experience. 

Remember...

Reflective writing is...

• Written in the first person
• Free flowing
• A tool to challenge assumptions
• A time investment

Reflective writing isn't...

• Written in the third person
• Descriptive
• What you think you should write
• A tool to ignore assumptions
• A waste of time

Adapted from The Reflective Practice Guide: an Interdisciplinary Approach / Barbara Bassot.

You can learn more about reflective writing in this handy video from Hull University:

Created by SkillsTeamHullUni

• Hull reflective writing video transcript (Word)
• Hull reflective writing video transcript (PDF)

Where might you use reflective writing?

You can use reflective writing in many aspects of your work, study and even everyday life. The activities below all contain some aspect of reflective writing and are common to many people:

1. Job applications

Both preparing for and writing job applications contain elements of reflective writing. You need to think about the experience that makes you suitable for a role and this means reflection on the skills you have developed and how they might relate to the specification. When writing your application you need to expand on what you have done and explain what you have learnt and why this matters - key elements of reflective writing.

2. Appraisals

In a similar way, undertaking an appraisal is a good time to reflect back on a certain period of time in post. You might be asked to record what went well and why as well as identifying areas for improvement.

3. Written feedback

If you have made a purchase recently you are likely to have received a request for feedback. When you leave a review of a product or service online then you need to think about the pros and cons. You may also have gone into detail about why the product was so good or the service was so bad so other people know how to judge it in the future.

4. Blogging

Blogs are a place to offer your own opinion and can be a really good place to do some reflective writing. Blogger often take a view on something and use their site as a way to share it with the world. They will often talk about the reasons why they like/dislike something - classic reflective writing.

5. During the research process

When researchers are working on a project they will often think about they way they are working and how it could be improved as well as considering different approaches to achieve their research goal. They will often record this in some way such as in a lab book and this questioning approach is a form of reflective writing.

6. In academic writing

Many students will be asked to include some form of reflection in an academic assignment, for example when relating a topic to their real life circumstances. They are also often asked to think about their opinion on or reactions to texts and other research and write about this in their own work.

Think about ... When you reflect

Think about all of the activities you do on a daily basis. Do any of these contain elements of reflective writing? Make a list of all the times you have written something reflective over the last month - it will be longer than you think!

Reflective terminology

A common mistake people make when writing reflectively is to focus too much on describing their experience. Think about some of the phrases below and try to use them when writing reflectively to help you avoid this problem:

• The most important thing was...
• At the time I felt...
• This was likely due to...
• After thinking about it...
• I learned that...
• I need to know more about...
• Later I realised...
• This was because...
• This was like...
• I wonder what would happen if...
• I'm still unsure about...
• My next steps are...

Always try and write in the first person when writing reflectively. This will help you to focus on your thoughts/feelings/experiences rather than just a description of the experience.

Using reflective writing in your academic work

Many courses will also expect you to reflect on your own learning as you progress through a particular programme. You may be asked to keep some type of reflective journal or diary. Depending on the needs of your course this may or may not be assessed but if you are using one it's important to write reflectively. This can help you to look back and see how your thinking has evolved over time - something useful for job applications in the future. Students at all levels may also be asked to reflect on the work of others, either as part of a group project or through peer review of their work. This requires a slightly different approach to reflection as you are not focused on your own work but again this is a useful skill to develop for the workplace.

You can see some useful examples of reflective writing in academia from Monash University ,  UNSW (the University of New South Wales) and Sage . Several of these examples also include feedback from tutors which you can use to inform your own work.

Laptop/computer/broswer/research by StockSnap via Pixabay licenced under CC0.

Now that you have a better idea of what reflective writing is and how it can be used it's time to practice some techniques.

This page has given you an understanding of what reflective writing is and where it can be used in both work and study. Now that you have a better idea of how reflective writing works the next two pages will guide you through some activities you can use to get started.

• << Previous: Barriers to reflection
• Next: Free writing >>
• Last Updated: Jun 21, 2023 3:24 PM
• URL: https://libguides.cam.ac.uk/reflectivepracticetoolkit

© Cambridge University Libraries | Accessibility | Privacy policy | Log into LibApps

Essay Papers Writing Online

Mastering the art of writing a compelling reflection essay for personal growth and self-expression.

When it comes to creating an exceptional piece of reflective writing, there are several strategies that can elevate your essay from ordinary to extraordinary. Through profound introspection and insightful analysis, a reflection essay grants you the opportunity to delve into the depths of your thoughts, emotions, and experiences, enabling you to unearth valuable insights and personal growth. However, achieving this level of quality requires more than just penning down your reflections – it necessitates a careful selection of words, a well-structured framework, and a thoughtful presentation of your ideas.

The key to writing an outstanding reflective essay lies in mastering the art of self-expression while effectively conveying the significance and impact of your experiences. By employing descriptive language encapsulating vivid imagery, you can immerse your readers in the essence of your reflections, allowing them to journey alongside you as you unravel your thoughts and emotions. Additionally, weaving in personal anecdotes and specific examples lends credibility to your writing, fostering a connection between your readers and the life lessons you share.

An integral aspect of crafting a top-tier reflective composition is organizing your ideas in a logical and coherent manner. By composing a well-structured outline and adhering to it throughout your essay, you ensure a smooth and seamless flow of thoughts, preventing your readers from feeling lost or disoriented. This framework should encompass an introduction outlining the purpose and significance of your reflection, a body where you explore your experiences, emotions, and personal growth in detail, and a conclusion that wraps up your essay, leaving your audience with a lasting impression.

Understanding the Purpose of a Reflection Essay

A reflection essay serves as a platform for individuals to express their thoughts, opinions, and experiences about a particular subject or event. It is a type of essay that encourages introspection and self-awareness, allowing writers to delve deep into their thoughts and emotions.

The primary purpose of a reflection essay is to enable individuals to reflect on their experiences, analyze their reactions, and gain insights into their own personal growth. It provides an opportunity for writers to explore their innermost thoughts and feelings, as well as to critically evaluate their actions and decision-making processes.

Through a reflection essay, writers can demonstrate their ability to think critically, evaluate their strengths and weaknesses, and identify areas for personal and professional development. It helps individuals develop a deeper understanding of themselves, their values, and their beliefs.

Furthermore, a reflection essay allows individuals to connect their personal experiences to theoretical concepts and academic knowledge. It bridges the gap between theory and practice, enabling writers to apply what they have learned in a real-life context.

In conclusion, the purpose of a reflection essay is to encourage self-reflection, personal growth, and critical thinking. It provides a platform for individuals to express their thoughts and emotions, analyze their experiences, and gain a deeper understanding of themselves. Through this type of essay, writers can reflect on their actions, evaluate their decision-making processes, and connect their personal experiences to broader academic concepts.

Exploring the meaning and goals of a reflection essay

A reflection essay delves into the personal experiences and thoughts of the writer, offering a platform to express one’s feelings, opinions, and insights. It goes beyond simply summarizing and retelling events, instead focusing on analyzing and exploring their significance. The goal of a reflection essay is to encourage introspection, self-awareness, and personal growth.

When writing a reflection essay, the writer should aim to provide a thoughtful and meaningful analysis of their experiences. This involves reflecting on the emotions, thoughts, and lessons learned from a particular event or series of events. The essay should showcase the writer’s ability to connect their personal experiences to larger themes and concepts.

• Developing self-awareness: A key goal of a reflection essay is to cultivate self-awareness. By examining and reflecting on past experiences, the writer can gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their reactions to different situations. This self-awareness can lead to personal growth and the development of new insights.
• Exploring emotions and thoughts: Reflection essays provide an opportunity to explore and analyze the range of emotions and thoughts experienced during a particular event or period of time. Through introspection, the writer can delve into their own internal world, uncovering the underlying motivations and beliefs that influence their actions.
• Examining lessons learned: Another important goal of a reflection essay is to examine the lessons learned from past experiences. By reflecting on the outcomes and consequences of different choices and actions, the writer can gain valuable insights that can be applied to future situations. This process of self-reflection allows for personal growth and the development of critical thinking skills.
• Connecting personal experiences to broader concepts: A reflection essay encourages writers to make connections between their personal experiences and larger societal, cultural, or philosophical concepts. This ability to link personal experiences to broader themes allows for a deeper exploration of the significance and implications of those experiences.

Overall, a reflection essay provides an opportunity for introspection and self-exploration. It allows the writer to delve into their personal experiences, thoughts, and emotions, while also connecting them to larger ideas and concepts. By engaging in thoughtful analysis and critical reflection, the writer can gain a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

Selecting a Suitable Topic for Your Reflection Essay

When it comes to writing a reflection essay, one of the most crucial decisions you will make is selecting a suitable topic. The topic you choose sets the stage for your entire essay, shaping the content and direction of your thoughts. Therefore, it is important to take the time to carefully consider and select a topic that is both meaningful to you and relevant to the subject matter.

One approach to selecting a suitable topic is to reflect on your own personal experiences and identify moments or events that have had a profound impact on your life. These could be positive or negative experiences, moments of growth or self-discovery, or even challenges that you have overcome. By choosing a topic that resonates with you on a personal level, you will be more engaged in the writing process and able to provide genuine insights and reflections.

Alternatively, you can choose a topic that is related to your academic or professional pursuits. Reflecting on your studies or work experiences can offer a unique perspective and help you gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter. Consider selecting a topic that aligns with your field of study or career goals, as this can provide an opportunity to showcase your knowledge and expertise.

It is also worth considering topics that are controversial or thought-provoking. Reflecting on issues that are currently debated in society can lead to a more engaging and impactful essay. By exploring different perspectives and considering opposing viewpoints, you can demonstrate your critical thinking skills and ability to analyze complex issues.

Lastly, don’t forget to consider the audience for your reflection essay. Depending on who will be reading your essay, you may want to choose a topic that is relatable and interesting to them. Think about what might resonate with your audience and what they might be interested in learning from your reflections.

In conclusion, selecting a suitable topic for your reflection essay is a crucial step in the writing process. By choosing a topic that is meaningful to you, relevant to the subject matter, and potentially interesting to your audience, you can set the stage for a compelling and insightful essay.

Guidelines for choosing a relevant and engaging topic

When it comes to crafting a successful reflection essay, selecting a topic that is both relevant and engaging is crucial. The topic you choose will set the tone for your entire essay and determine the level of interest your readers will have. Therefore, it is important to carefully consider a few guidelines before finalizing your topic.

1. Reflect on personal experiences: Begin by looking inward and reflecting on your own experiences, thoughts, and emotions. Consider events or moments that have had a significant impact on you and explore how they have shaped your perspective.

2. Choose a topic that sparks your curiosity: It is important to select a topic that genuinely interests you. Look for subjects that ignite your curiosity and make you eager to explore and delve deeper into the subject matter. This passion will shine through in your writing and engage your readers.

3. Consider a controversial issue: Controversial topics often invite discussion and debate. Choosing a topic that sparks controversy can provide an opportunity to present multiple perspectives and stimulate critical thinking. Just ensure that you approach the topic with sensitivity and respect for varying viewpoints.

4. Look for a unique angle or perspective: To make your reflection essay stand out, consider approaching a common topic from a unique angle. Find a distinctive perspective or bring a fresh insight to a familiar subject. This will make your essay more interesting and memorable.

5. Stay focused and specific: While it is important to choose a topic that is broad enough to explore in depth, it is equally important to narrow down the scope and stay focused. This will help you maintain clarity in your writing and prevent your essay from becoming too broad or overwhelming.

6. Consider your target audience: Lastly, keep in mind who your audience is and choose a topic that will resonate with them. Consider their interests, knowledge, and preferences, and select a topic that will capture their attention and engage them throughout your essay.

By following these guidelines, you will be able to choose a relevant and engaging topic for your reflection essay that will captivate your readers and make your writing truly standout.

Structuring Your Reflection Essay for Maximum Impact

A well-structured reflection essay can make a significant impact on your readers and effectively convey your thoughts and experiences. By carefully organizing your essay, you can ensure that it flows smoothly and engages the reader from start to finish. In this section, we will discuss some key techniques for structuring your reflection essay to maximize its impact.

Begin your essay with a compelling introduction that sets the tone for the rest of the piece. This can be achieved by capturing the reader’s attention with a thought-provoking question or an intriguing anecdote. The introduction should also provide a brief overview of the topic you will be reflecting upon and establish your main thesis or argument.

After the introduction, the body paragraphs of your essay should present your reflections in a logical and organized manner. Each paragraph should focus on a specific aspect of your experience and provide supporting evidence or examples. Consider using subheadings or transition phrases to guide the reader through different sections of your essay and ensure a smooth flow of ideas.

As you reflect on your experiences, it is important to show growth and development. This can be achieved by demonstrating how your thoughts or attitudes have changed over time. Use specific examples and anecdotes to illustrate your progress and highlight key moments of realization or insight. By showing a clear progression of your thoughts, you can create a compelling narrative that captivates your readers.

Finally, conclude your reflection essay by summarizing your main points and tying them together in a cohesive manner. This is an opportunity to leave a lasting impression on your readers and reinforce the significance of your reflections. Consider ending with a thought-provoking question or a call to action that encourages further contemplation or action.

By following these guidelines and structuring your reflection essay effectively, you can ensure that your readers are engaged and impacted by your personal insights and experiences. Take the time to carefully plan and organize your essay, and you will ultimately create a piece that resonates with your audience.

Organizing your thoughts and ideas effectively

Arranging and structuring your thoughts and ideas in a coherent manner is crucial when writing a reflection essay. By organizing your thoughts effectively, you can ensure that your essay flows smoothly and conveys your message clearly to the reader.

To begin with, it is important to take some time to brainstorm and gather your thoughts before starting the writing process. This can be done through free writing or creating an outline. By jotting down your ideas and reflections, you can have a clearer understanding of what you want to say in your essay.

Once you have gathered your thoughts, it is essential to create a logical structure for your essay. This can be done by dividing your essay into sections or paragraphs based on different themes or ideas. Each section should contain a clear topic sentence that introduces the main idea and supports it with relevant evidence or examples.

Furthermore, using transitional phrases and sentences can help ensure a smooth flow between different ideas and paragraphs. Transition words such as “however,” “in addition,” or “on the other hand” can be used to connect sentences and improve the overall coherence of your essay.

In addition, it is important to prioritize your ideas and arrange them in a logical order. Start with the most important or impactful ideas and gradually move towards less significant ones. This will help your essay to have a clear progression and ensure that your main points are highlighted effectively.

Lastly, it is crucial to revise and edit your essay to ensure that your thoughts and ideas are presented in a concise and coherent manner. Check for any repetition, irrelevant information, or inconsistencies, and make necessary revisions to improve the overall clarity and impact of your essay.

Taking the time to organize your thoughts and ideas effectively can greatly enhance the quality of your reflection essay. By following these steps, you can create a well-structured and impactful essay that effectively communicates your reflections and insights.

Using Personal Experiences to Enhance Your Reflection Essay

Utilizing your personal experiences can greatly enrich your reflection essay, providing a deeper insight into your thoughts and emotions. By drawing from your own life experiences, you can effectively connect with your readers and make your essay more relatable.

When incorporating personal experiences into your reflection essay, it is important to choose anecdotes or moments that are relevant to the topic or theme of your essay. This will ensure that your personal experiences contribute meaningfully to your overall message. Additionally, using vivid and descriptive language can help bring your experiences to life for your readers, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the narrative.

Moreover, reflecting on personal experiences can add a unique perspective to your essay. It allows you to explore your own growth, challenges, and lessons learned. By sharing your personal insights, you can inspire and engage your readers, encouraging them to reflect on their own experiences and perspectives.

However, it is crucial to maintain a balance between personal anecdotes and the reflection aspect of your essay. Your personal experiences should support and enhance your reflections, rather than overshadowing them. Remember to discuss the significance of your experiences and how they have influenced your thoughts and feelings. This will ensure that your essay remains focused and cohesive.

In conclusion, incorporating personal experiences into your reflection essay can elevate its impact and make it more engaging for your readers. By selecting relevant anecdotes, using descriptive language, and striking a balance between personal experiences and reflection, you can create a compelling essay that leaves a lasting impression.

Related Post

How to master the art of writing expository essays and captivate your audience, convenient and reliable source to purchase college essays online, step-by-step guide to crafting a powerful literary analysis essay, unlock success with a comprehensive business research paper example guide, unlock your writing potential with writers college – transform your passion into profession, “unlocking the secrets of academic success – navigating the world of research papers in college”, master the art of sociological expression – elevate your writing skills in sociology.

How To Summarize A Book

How to Summarize a Book - A Complete Guide

Published on: Aug 20, 2024

Last updated on: Aug 20, 2024

People also read

Imagine you just finished reading a cool book about a daring adventure, like Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. 

You want to tell your friend what it's about, but without making them read the whole book. How do you do that? 

You need to summarize it!

Summarizing a book is about picking out the most important parts so someone else can understand the book without having to read it.

In this blog, you’ll learn exactly how to do this in a few simple steps. We’ll show you how to identify the key characters, focus on the crucial moments, and keep your summary short and engaging.

By the end, you'll be able to create a concise and interesting summary of a book without spoiling it.

Let’s get started!

What is a Book Summary?

A book summary is a brief overview of a book's main points and ideas. Think of it as a condensed version of the book that highlights the key parts without getting into every detail.

It helps readers understand the book’s main idea quickly.

A good summary covers:

• The Main Characters: Who are they, and what are their roles in the story?
• The Setting: Where and when does the story take place?
• The Major Events: What are the key happenings that drive the story forward?
• The Conclusion: What happens at the end of the book?

Step to Prepare for a Book Summary

Before you start summarizing a book, it’s helpful to follow some steps to ensure you capture all the important details. Here’s a simple guide to get you ready:

• Read the Book Carefully: First things first, make sure you read the book thoroughly. Pay attention to the main events, characters, and settings. Take notes as you go along to remember key details.
• Highlight Key Points: As you read, highlight the most important parts of the story. Focus on major plot points, character developments, and significant events. This will help you remember what to include in your summary.
• Identify the Main Characters and Settings: Note who the main characters are and where the story takes place. This helps in providing context in your summary and makes sure you cover the basics.
• Understand the Main Plot: Make sure you have a clear understanding of the main plot and the book’s central theme. What is the story really about? What message is the author trying to convey?
• Organize Your Notes: Once you have your notes, organize them into a logical order. Start with the introduction, then move through the main events, and finish with the conclusion. This will make it easier to draft your summary.
• Decide What to Include: Choose the most important information from your notes. Focus on major plot points and key characters. Avoid getting bogged down in minor details or subplots.

How to Write the Summary of a Book

Writing a summary of a book involves distilling the story into its essential parts while keeping it clear and engaging. 

Follow these steps to craft a well-rounded summary:

Step #1: Start with the Basics 

Begin by introducing the book. Mention the title, the author, and a brief overview of the setting. 

For example, “In Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling, the story takes place at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry where a young wizard named Harry Potter discovers his magical heritage.”

Step #2: Introduce the Main Characters

Briefly describe the main characters and their roles. 

For instance, “Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, and Ron Weasley are the central characters who went on a magical journey and face various challenges.”

Step #3: Summarize the Major Events 

Focus on the key events that drive the plot forward. Mention the significant actions and turning points. 

For example, “The story follows Harry as he learns about his wizarding powers, makes new friends, and confronts the dark wizard Voldemort.”

Step #4: Highlight the Main Conflict and Resolution 

Explain the main conflict or problem in the book and how it gets resolved. 

For example, “The primary conflict is Harry’s struggle against Voldemort, who wants to take over the wizarding world. The resolution comes as Harry and his friends work together to prevent Voldemort from gaining power.”

Step #5: Conclude with a Brief Reflection

Wrap up your summary with a short reflection on the book’s themes or message. 

For instance, “Overall, the book explores themes of bravery, friendship, and the battle between good and evil.”

Step #6: Keep it Concise

Aim for a summary that is brief but informative. Avoid long-winded explanations or unnecessary details. A summary should give a clear picture of the book without overwhelming the reader.

Now that you understand the key steps and elements, let's see how to put these into practice with a complete summary example.

Tips For Writing Effective Book Summaries 

Creating a compelling book summary requires more than just listing events. Here are some tips to ensure your summary is both engaging and informative:

• Focus on key plot points and themes.
• Rewrite in your own style to ensure originality.
• Provide a neutral overview, avoiding personal opinions.
• Write in an interesting tone to capture attention.
• Organize points clearly from start to finish.
• Cover all major aspects without overemphasizing.
• Check for clarity and correct any errors.
• Adjust your summary’s style based on who will read it.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid 

When summarizing a book, avoiding common mistakes can make your summary more effective and clear. 

Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Too Many Details: Stick to the main events and characters.
• Excessive Quotes: Use your own words instead of direct quotes.
• Ignoring the Main Plot: Focus on the central story, not the side plots.
• Being Too Vague: Provide enough detail to be clear.
• Misrepresenting the Author’s Intent: Stay true to the book’s message.
• Lack of Structure: Ensure a clear beginning, middle, and end.
• Not Reviewing: Proofread to catch errors and improve clarity.
• Skipping the Conclusion: Include a brief wrap-up or reflection.

All in all, summarizing a book involves understanding its core elements and presenting them. 

Following the steps and avoiding common pitfalls will improve your ability to convey complex stories succinctly, aiding in school assignments, book reviews, or personal notes.

Practice regularly, and you’ll soon excel at summarizing books effectively.

But if you are wondering how to summarize a book online, try our summarizer tool today! 

MyEssayWriter.ai also provides various other tools, so visit this AI essay writer-free essay maker today!

Frequently Asked Questions

How to summarize a chapter in a textbook.

To summarize a chapter in a textbook, start by reading the chapter thoroughly. Identify the main points, key concepts, and important details. Then, write a brief overview in your own words, focusing on the essential information and excluding minor details.

How to Summarise a Textbook?

Summarizing a textbook follows the same principles as summarizing any other type of book. Use the steps outlined above to effectively capture the main ideas:

• Understand the content by reading carefully.
• Highlight major themes and important details.
• Write down essential points as you go.
• Write a concise overview in your own words, focusing on the core ideas.

Caleb S. (Mass Literature and Linguistics, Masters)

Caleb S. is an accomplished author with over five years of experience and a Master's degree from Oxford University. He excels in various writing forms, including articles, press releases, blog posts, and whitepapers. As a valued author at MyEssayWriter.ai, Caleb assists students and professionals by providing practical tips on research, citation, sentence structure, and style enhancement.

On This Page On This Page

Get Access to Advanced Features with our Affordable Plans

Complimentary Trial

Continue for FREE

OFFER ENDS Today

Signup for Free Access

Access to all Tools

No Credit Card needed

Quota: 1500 Words (6 pages)

Offer ends in: 03hr 19m 8s

Already a user? Login instead

For Monthly Usage

$ 9.99 /month

Up to 2500 words/month

Access to all features

AI Essay Writer

AI Essay Outliner

Go Big Monthly!

$ 14.99 /month

Up to 100,000 words/month

Access to all existing tools

50% off on custom essay orders

500 credits for plagiarism check

Top Annual Savings!

Advanced (4 Months FREE )

$ 99.99 /year

OFFER ENDS Soon

Unlimited essays

12 Months for the price of 8

Access to all upcoming tools

Get started for free

Please enter a valid Name

Please enter a valid email address

Please enter a valid Phone Number

Please enter atleast five characters

Please enter a valid Password

Show Password

Already have an account? Sign In here.

Please enter your email address

Forgot Password?

Don’t have an account? Sign Up

Verify Your Account

Enter the verification codes to confirm your identity.

Code sent to [email protected]

Send again in seconds

Code sent to +1 302 385 6690

Claim Free Essay

Your first custom essay order on our website is FREE!