Gibbs Reflective Cycle Example for Student Nurses

Last updated August 2026

Resources / Gibbs Reflective Cycle Example for Student Nurses

This guide is being written. One anonymised placement event taken through all six Gibbs stages, with the thinking behind each section explained.

What this guide will cover

• The six stages of Gibbs and what markers look for in each
• A complete worked example from an adult placement
• How much to write in each stage
• Common places students get stuck between analysis and conclusion
• Adapting Gibbs for midwifery and allied health placements

In the meantime, our nursing reflection examples guide covers Gibbs, Rolfe and Driscoll in full, with worked examples and confidentiality guidance.

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