Penance

The Sacrament of Penance, also called Confession or Reconciliation, is one of the two sacraments of healing.  This sacrament is for the forgivness of sins we commit after Baptism.  The Church receives this power to forgive sins when Jesus says to the apostles; the first bishops, after His resurrection,

Receive the Holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them and whose sins you retain are retained.
-John 20:22-23

"Examination of Conscience" is simply a list of questions that helps you recall your sins and prepare you to confess them in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Overall, the examination is a resource to help you recognize two things: 1) How have I failed to love God?  2) How have I failed to love my neighbor?

Brief Examination of Conscience for Adults
Detailed Examination of Conscience for Adults
Child-Friendly Examination of Conscience

Guide for Going to Confession
Quotes from the Saints on the Sacrament of Reconciliation