Writing an outline can help you organize your thoughts and develop a coherent structure for your essay, and when it comes time to write your first draft, the outline can serve as a guide to keep you on track. Critical mind. One of the most important aspects of a reaction essay is the critique it provides. 8.5: Assignment – Writing a critical essay. If you have done the exercises and followed the process I have outlined in this chapter, you should be well on your way to the process of writing an effective review. As you work on the writing assignment for this chapter, practice your new knowledge about the critique process.