A reflective essay examines an experience and how it impacted the writer's perspectives. It has three parts: an introduction orienting the reader, a body with at least three paragraphs reflecting on insights and analyzing the experience, and a conclusion reminding readers of the essay's purpose and summarizing explored issues. Choosing a topic and organizing thoughts are keys, and focusing on feelings, emotions, and lessons learned makes for an effective personal reflection. Asking who, what, why, where, when, and how questions can help drive deeper analysis in the body.