Reaction Paper Writing Tips

Reaction paper is a task that requires a student to analyze information and give comments
on a certain text or media. A reaction paper is different from a review in that it is composed
in the first person and assumes subjective point of view. Working on this type of task, you
are welcome to use such phrases as “I believe” or “I think” and even present your thoughts
in an emotional manner.
Despite the fact that you are writing about your reactions, thoughts and impressions, you
still need to follow an appropriate structure. So make sure to:

 Read the material carefully

Whether it is a book, article, or a film, make sure to read or watch it very carefully.
Sometimes, you will need to repeat this procedure for a couple of times.
 Mark interesting places while reading/watching
This will help you focus on the aspects that impressed you the most and come back to them
after you are done with reading or watching.

 Write down your thought while reading/watching

Doing so, you won’t forget any important ideas that came to your head.

 Come up with a thesis statement

Use your notes to formulate a central idea you will develop in your further work. Then put it
in one sentence and make it your thesis statement.
 Compose an outline
Every time you write an academic paper, you need to make an outline. Try at least once
and you will see how helpful an outline could be!

 Construct your paper

Only when all the preparations are done, start writing a paper itself.

Step-by-step guide to help you get your reaction

paper done
 Start with a draft
You can’t do without it! Use your outline to compose the first draft and reveal the basic
elements of your work. Remember, you need an entire draft written carefully from the
beginning to the end to understand what exactly you should include into the first paragraph
of your finished work. Your overall point must be stated clearly in the first paragraph and
you can’t do it without having a full picture of your paper.

 Express your opinion

It’s a reaction paper, so don’t be shy to express your own thoughts. In this case, there is
nothing weird about all these “I feel” and “I think”. Of course, your tutor expects that your
 reaction will be thoughtful and sophisticated, so do not despise including a bit of analysis
and background information.

 Do not get carried away with criticism

Some students think that reaction papers give them an absolute freedom of expression and
go to extremes with criticism. It’s okay to critique a book or film, but you don’t have to be
rude and nasty! Remember that critiques without evidence and clear examples is always
baseless and boring to read.

And here is the last tip for students who are not sure that writing is their cup of tea. Make
sure to visit an online writing company and ask professional writers to tailor a sample paper
for you. Doing so, you will be able to follow a correct framework and won’t let your best
ideas remain misunderstood.