A river profile is a way of viewing the shape of a river from source to sea to determine its characteristics.
River profiles are viewed as a cross-section or side view of a river.
This allows for the gradient, or shape, of the river to be seen.

A river is divided into upper course, mid course, and lower course. These sections of the river are determined mostly by the river's level of energy.
As the gradient of a river decreases, as does the energy of the river.
The upper course of the river typically has high energy and many erosive landforms. Typical landforms include; v-shaped valleys, waterfalls and gorges, and interlocking spurs.
The mid course of the river has a lower energy and few erosive landforms. Typical landforms include; meanders.
The lower course of a river has low energy and depositional features. Typical landforms include; oxbow lakes levees, and floodplains.