Most portfolios provide you with an opportunity to introduce your work. Your introduction should provide a framework within which your readers can understand your work. By focusing on particular issues, such as your desire to address the needs of your audience or your ability to use sources effectively, you can direct your readers’ attention to areas in which you demonstrate strengths as a writer. Similarly, your introduction can direct your readers’ attention to areas in which you hope to improve, allowing them to offer feedback and advice that might help you become a stronger writer.

Reflections are often included with a portfolio, and in particular in portfolios that are assigned in a writing class. If you are working on a class portfolio, be sure to review your portfolio assignment for guidance on reflection. Generally, it is useful to set aside time to write about changes in your composing processes and your growth as a writer. Your reflections can help you decide how you might share your development as a writer with your readers.

It is also a good idea to consider the strengths and weaknesses demonstrated by the materials you’ve included in your portfolio. Describe the areas in which you are strong and the areas in which you could improve. Then look for evidence from your materials, and either quote it or provide a link to it in your reflective statement. As in other types of writing, providing evidence to support your conclusions will increase the effectiveness of your reflections.