How to Write a Reflection Paper: Full Guide with a Free Example
A reflection paper is a very common type of paper among college students. Almost any subject you enroll in requires you to express your opinion on certain matters. In this article we will explain how to write a reflection paper, and provide you with examples and useful tips that will make the writing process easier.
Reflection papers should have an academic tone, yet be personal and subjective. In this type of paper you should analyse and reflect upon how an experience, academic task, article, or lecture shaped your perception and thoughts on a subject.
Here is what you need to know about writing an effective reflection paper. Stick around until the end of our guide to get some useful writing tips from the writing team at EssayPro — professional paper writing service.
Reflection papers should have an academic tone, yet be personal and subjective. In this type of paper you should analyse and reflect upon how an experience, academic task, article, or lecture shaped your perception and thoughts on a subject. Note taking is an essential part of writing an effective reflection paper. It organizes your ideas so you can crank out your final draft as fast as possible.What is a Reflection Paper?
First things first, what exactly is a reflection paper?
Well, it’s really just a personal reflection on a specific topic, usually a lecture, film, book, or idea.
Though a reflection paper is a type of academic essay, it’s much less formal than other essays you write in school. You have the chance to take on a more casual tone, adopt the first-person writing style (unless stated otherwise by your teacher), and give your opinion on the chosen topic.
Simply put, a reflection paper is your opinion on what you think about the chosen topic.
That doesn’t mean you can wing it though. You gotta back up those opinions with EVIDENCE.
That said, a reflection paper isn’t an editorial. So there’s no need to explore your topic from ALL angles or address counterarguments.
Your opinion is the most important aspect of this assignment. So spend plenty of time reflecting on your thoughts on the topic before picking up the pen (or pecking away at the keyboard!).
Reflection papers are more than just an assignment. They help you grow as a person. In today’s crazy world, we are bombarded by inputs all day long. Most of the time, we don’t have the capacity to stop to analyze how we feel about them.
That’s where a reflection paper comes in. It forces you to sit down with your thoughts, sort out your opinions and feelings, and uncover valuable insights that help you understand the world (and yourself) better.
Reflection paper outline
There are two approaches to writing a reflection paper &ndash
1) Express the main idea in a thesis statement, develop it in body paragraphs by providing supportive arguments, and conclude facts by supporting the thesis statement once more.
2) Start a conversation on topic and hint on a conclusion. Suppose where the subject is going to lead but leave the room for some doubts. Provide an analysis in the body. Come up with a conclusion that is slightly or entirely different from what you expected at the beginning.
Introduction
Express your feelings on a subject is the most critical thing in how to write a reflection paper. Just don&rsquo
- It should be informative, brief, and catchy.
- You can ask a reflective question in the text.
- Don&rsquo
This is a part where you explore the thesis. You should explain the case in several paragraphs. Use a three-paragraph structure. In the first one, introduce the experience and how it influenced you. In the next one, compare the experiences of others. Then, tell what you learned from it.
- You can start with the reasons for choosing the topic.
- Dig into nuances to explain everything well.
- Be logical.
- Include solid examples and quote sources.
- Show how the subject has affected you.
Conclusion
The conclusion should be solid, even striking. It is the bottom line of the paper which demonstrates that your ideas have been fully formed. Wrap up the discussion by placing the strong accents. Leave the conceivable image of your experience, so readers get some food for reflection. If you want to read more information, we can show you how to write a conclusion.
This paper highlights a student&rsquo Just be careful to not overdo the summary—you don’t want to reproduce or offer a play-by-play of the original work, but rather offer enough context so readers can appreciate your reflection and analysis.Writing a Reflective Essay
Whether you’ve been assigned a reflection paper for school or simply want to write one for your own exercise, these tips will help you get the most from the experience.
Remember that when you’re consuming any type of media, it’s good practice to reflect on what you’ve absorbed and ask critical questions so you can draw your own conclusions.
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As a blog writer for TCK Publishing, Kaelyn loves crafting fun and helpful content for writers, readers, and creative minds alike. She has a degree in International Affairs with a minor in Italian Studies, but her true passion has always been writing. Working remotely allows her to do even more of the things she loves, like traveling, cooking, and spending time with her family.
Answering these questions will help you formulate your own opinions, draw conclusions, and write an insightful reflection.