Portfolio courses typically emphasize revision and reflection — your ability to identify and discuss your decisions, strengths, or learning processes. To build your portfolio, save all your drafts and notes, keep track of your choices and changes, and eventually select and submit your best writing.

The portfolio, printed or electronic, collects pieces of writing that represent the writer’s best work. Compiled over time and across projects, it showcases a writer’s talent, hard work, and ability to make thoughtful choices. A course portfolio is usually due as the term ends and includes pieces written and revised for that class. Portfolios may include an introduction (often a self-assessment or rationale) for readers, who might be teachers, supervisors, evaluators, parents, or classmates.