Tips for Writing a Good Reaction Paper

Do

1. Read the given article carefully.

2. Think about 1 or 2 major points you want to articulate in your reaction paper.

3. Describe your point first ("Lessons Learned," "What you agreed on…" or "What you disagreed on…")

4. Justify why you think that way.

5. Provide one or two real-world example(s) - You may use any example you are familiar with, including ones we discuss in class or ones from the textbook. However, please do not assume that I know what you are talking about when you just mention a name (e.g. Enron or Wal-Mart). Provide sufficient background information and how your example(s) support your argument.

6. Provide how your point relates to Public Relations (e.g. so what does this mean in Public Relations?)

Desirable Formats

1. Follow step 3 - 6 to make each point clearly (make 1 - 2 major points per each reaction paper) (normally one argument per one paragraph)

2. After you finish articulating all the points, have a conclusive statement at the end.

3. Provide reaction paper #, date, your name, and student ID #

4. Limit your quantity to 1 page

5. Please proofread your reaction paper carefully to avoid any grammatical mistakes or typos.

What Not To Do

1. Just summarize what you read (I want to see your professional opinions - not a summary)

2. No evidence to back up your point (e.g. no examples)

3. Provide random examples without making careful effort to relate to your point

Remember! Provide appropriate examples to support each argument and insights about how it relates to Public Relations (PR perspectives).