How Can I Write a Reflective Essay?

For some writers, the greatest challenge in writing a reflective essay is getting past the idea that no one would be interested in reading their reflections on a subject. In fact, readers show a great deal of interest in reflective writing. They buy memoirs and autobiographies, visit blogs, and read opinion columns. They read articles and essays in which writers share their thoughts about their experiences and ideas. Some readers even try to pick the locks on their sisters’ diaries.

Reflective writing is popular not only among readers but also among writers. Reflective essays allow you to share your insights with instructors and classmates, people who are likely to have an interest in your perspective on a subject.

Writing a reflective essay involves choosing and reflecting on a subject, preparing a draft, and reviewing and improving what you’ve written. As you work on your essay, you’ll follow the work of Caitlin Guariglia, an Italian American student who wrote a reflective essay about a family trip to Italy.