Master the Art of 'Show, Don't Tell' in Your Book: A 2024 Guide for Aspiring Authors

The Art of Showing vs. Telling: A Writer's Guide to Vivid Storytelling

Ever read a book that made you feel like you were right there in the scene? That's exactly what good writing should do. Welcome to the world of "show, don't tell" – a golden rule that can transform your writing.

What Does "Show, Don't Tell" Mean?

Think of yourself as a movie director with words. The idea behind the statement is for the reader to to fell as they are living the story instead of hearing about it. Instead of stating that it's raining, make your readers hear the pitter-patter on the roof. Make them feel the cold droplets on their skin.

Do not misunderstand me, this principle isn't just about pretty descriptions. It's about creating experiences that sticks with your readers long after they've finished the last page.

The Magic Behind the Method

When you show instead of tell, something incredible happens in your reader's mind. Let's look at two ways to describe the same scene:

Telling: "Sarah was nervous about her presentation, even though practicing ten times."

Showing: "Sarah's fingers drummed against her laptop as she rehearsed her opening lines for the tenth time. Her coffee sat untouched, growing cold beside her trembling hands."

See the difference? The second version puts you right there with Sarah, feeling her anxiety firsthand.

Finding the Right Balance 

Here's the thing – sometimes telling is exactly what your story needs. Not every door creak or footstep deserves a detailed description. Think of "telling" as your story's fast-forward button and "showing" as your slow-motion camera. Use each one when it serves your story best.

Tips for Mastering the Technique

• Use strong verbs: Instead of "walked sadly," try "trudged" or "shuffled"

• Engage the senses: What do your characters see, hear, smell, taste, and feel?

• Focus on reactions: Show how characters respond to events rather than stating their emotions

• Paint with specific details: Replace "the old house" with "the Victorian mansion with its peeling blue paint"

Pro tip: When writing a book or scene, notice what emotions and senses are you provoquing on the reader. Books can connect with their readers in a deeper level than other formats of stories.

Bringing It All Together 

Remember, "show, don't tell" isn't about eliminating all telling from your writing. It's about finding the perfect blend that keeps your readers turning pages. Like a master chef knows exactly how much spice to add, a skilled writer knows when to show and when to tell.

Practice this principle, but don't let it paralyze you. Start by identifying places in your writing where you can transform simple statements into vivid scenes. Your readers will thank you for the immersive experience you've created for them.

The Power of Words: Your Guide to Mastering Descriptive Language

We dive into descriptive language to explain how to show to your readers what is happening in a scene. Mastering descriptions is a difficult task for two reasons.

The first is the skill in it self, writing engaging scenes that readers will be pulled in. Maybe they will even smell the tangerine as your hero tries it for the first time after a long journey to a new kingdom.

The second is for aspiring authors. Without much social proof, reader may not give you that many pages to "wow" them. If you are a first time writer, it can be difficult for you to pull of a 600 words description like Grampa Tolkien did. The reason may not be your skill, but that the reader doesn't understand your style or even believe you can do it.

Social proof and marketing can give you leeway to experiment.

Awakening the Senses 

Close your eyes for a moment. What do you hear? What do you smell? Your world is a symphony of sensations, and your writing should be too. Good description goes beyond what meets the eye.

Think about walking into a coffee shop. Sure, you could just write "It was busy. She took her coffee to go on a cold day."

Wouldn't it be better to let your readers hear the whirr of the espresso machine? Smell the freshly ground beans, and feel the warmth of steam rising from ceramic cups? These details bring your scene to life.

Depending on how you write them, the same scene can cause anxiety or a calming sensation to the reader. The same hot coffee can be the start of an amazing day or the only thing keeping someone awake.

Choosing Words That Dance 

Words have personalities. They can whisper, shout, dance, or creep across the page. Let's play a quick game:

Think of quick scene and rewrite it in three different ways, keeping both meaning and point of view.

Here is an example:

Instead of: "The cat moved across the room". Try: "The cat slunk along the baseboards" or "The cat pranced across the sunlit floor"

See how different words paint different pictures? Each verb tells its own tiny story. Strong word choices can transform ordinary scenes into memorable moments.

Pro tip: search for site synonymous like XXXX. They can help you find a variety of words to use.

Paint with Metaphors, Color with Similes 

Sometimes, the best way to describe something is to compare it to something else. But here's the trick – your comparisons should clarify, not confuse. Think of metaphors and similes as bridges. They help readers understand unfamiliar concepts through familiar ones.

For example:

• "Her voice was like honey dripping from a spoon" (smooth and sweet)

• "His mind was a racing train with no brakes" (fast and unstoppable)

Practical Tips for Powerful Description

• Start a "word bank" of interesting terms you encounter

• Practice describing everyday objects in new ways

• Read your descriptions aloud to test their flow

• Ask yourself: "Could this image be clearer?"

Finding the Sweet Spot 

Here's the thing about description – you want just enough to paint the picture, but not so much that you drown your reader in details.

Think of it like seasoning a dish. Too little leaves it bland, too much overwhelms the palate.

Making It Work for You 

The best descriptions feel natural, not forced. They should flow seamlessly into your writing. Enhancing your story without stealing the spotlight. Start small. Pick one scene from your writing and focus on making it more vivid.

Remember, mastering descriptive language is like learning to play an instrument. It takes practice, but once you get the hang of it, you can create beautiful music with your words. Keep practicing, keep experimenting, and most importantly, keep writing.

Ready to give your words wings? Grab your pen and let's see what kind of magic you can create.

The Secret Art of Character Development: Actions Speak Louder Than Words

Ever met someone who instantly felt real to you? That's what we want to achieve with our characters. Great characters jump off the page and feel as alive as your next-door neighbor.

The Power of Show Through Action 

People reveal who they are through what they do. It's that simple. Think about your best friend for a moment. How did you learn about their personality? Was it through their Instagram bio, or was it through countless small moments and actions?

In writing, these revealing moments are gold. You don't have to write about a character's good heart if he helps the elderly across the street. There natural demonstrations of a character values ressonate with the reader. If your reader is understanding your character and connecting with them, you've succeded.

Little Actions, Big Impact 

The fractal concept is applied to writing and reading. Consider these everyday scenarios:

• How does your character handle a waiter getting their order wrong?

• What do they do when they find a wallet on the street?

• Do they let others merge in heavy traffic?

Small decisions paint the big picture. These tiny moments accumulate to create a fully-realized person in your readers' minds. If your hero is a bad person to less fortunate, will your reader root for them or start to resent them? Readers are smart, they can sense if you are forcing something through your writing.

Dialogue as a Character Mirror 

Listen to how people talk. Really listen. Some people ramble when they're nervous. Others use humor as a shield. Your characters should be just as distinct in their speech patterns.

Here's a quick example: "We need to talk" can be said in countless ways:

• "Hey, got a sec?" (casual, friendly)

• "We need to discuss something." (formal, possibly tense)

• "Yo, we gotta chat." (informal, urgent)

Each version tells us something different about the speaker.

The Dance of Emotions 

Emotions are tricky things. They leak out in unexpected ways. Instead of announcing "Maria was nervous," show us:

• Her fingers drumming on the table - as mentioned before.

• The way she keeps checking her phone

• How she hasn't touched her coffee despite ordering it twenty minutes ago.

These physical manifestations of emotion create a more engaging reading experience.

Practical Tips for Character Building

• Create a character habit list

• Observe how real people express emotions

• Keep a notebook of interesting behaviors you notice

• Practice describing emotions without naming them

Making Characters Memorable 

The most unforgettable characters have consistent traits that surface in surprising ways. Maybe your tough-guy protagonist secretly feeds stray cats. Perhaps your elegant socialite snorts when she laughs. These contradictions make characters feel human.

Remember, your goal is to make readers forget they're reading. You want them so invested in your characters that they feel like old friends. This happens through carefully chosen actions, authentic dialogue, and honest emotional expression.

Start small. Pick one character and focus on showing who they are through three specific actions. Then build from there. Like real relationships, getting to know your characters takes time and attention to detail.

Your characters are waiting to come alive. Give them space to act, react, and interact. Trust your readers to understand who these people are through what they do, not just what you tell them.

Creating Worlds: The Art of Immersive Settings

Ever walked into a room and instantly felt its mood? That's what we're aiming for in our writing. Settings aren't just places – they're experiences waiting to be shared. Let's explore how to create worlds that readers won't want to leave.

Why Settings Matter 

Think of your favorite books for a moment. Chances are, you can picture their worlds vividly. Maybe it's the misty streets of Victorian London or the cozy warmth of a hobbit's home. Great settings stick with us because they feel real.

A powerful setting does three things:

• Sets the mood for your story

• Influences how characters behave and feel

• Creates a world readers can step into

Building Your World One Detail at a Time 

The magic lies in the details. But not just any details – the right ones. Let's improve the coffee shop example:

Basic: "It was a coffee shop. She entered for a cup and left with nothing but embaracement."

Better: "The coffee shop's brass bell tinkled as the door opened. The aroma of freshly ground beans and warm pastries filled her lungs as her nostrils opened. The sound of voices got musseled by the old jazz played softly from hidden speakers. Dazzed by the sunlight coming from the corner window, she felt a hand on her shoulder. As she looked back, she heard it. A deep voice that caused a jolt in her mind. It was him.

"Hey, you are next. Are you gonna order or what?" he exclaimed.

"Ye... Yes!" Startled by his words, she tumbled to the counter without an order in mind. Her eyes traveled through the panels above the baristas, but she couldn't find her usual.

The waiter smurked, shrugging his shoulders forward and leaning on the counter. His right hand held his shin as the other tapped on the counter.

With each knock, she felt her heart beating faster. Her eyes dashed from side to side, searching for the perfect order. Turning her head sideways, the smiles amonght the customers disappeared. She could feel the sudden rise in temperature in her face. Lowering her head, she dashed toward the door without looking back. "

See the difference? The second version invites readers to step inside and take a place on the line.

The Art of Subtle Integration 

Nobody likes being hit over the head with description. The trick is to weave setting details naturally into your story's flow. Think of it like seasoning a dish – you want to enhance the flavor, not overpower it.

Try this approach:

• Sprinkle details throughout scenes rather than dumping them all at once

• Show settings through your characters' interactions with their environment

• Use all five senses, not just visual descriptions

Special Considerations for Different Genres 

Contemporary Fiction

• Focus on unique details that make familiar places feel fresh

• Use modern references thoughtfully – they can date your work

Fantasy/Sci-Fi

• Introduce unusual elements gradually

• Ground unfamiliar concepts in familiar sensations

• Remember that even magical worlds need internal logic

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Information overload (the dreaded info-dump)

• Generic descriptions that could fit anywhere

• Focusing only on how things look

• Forgetting that settings change with time and weather

The Art of Balance: When to Show and When to Tell

Why Both Matter 

Contrary to what some writing guides might say, both showing and telling have their place. It's not about eliminating one or the other – it's about knowing when to use each technique. This understanding can transform your writing from good to exceptional.

When to Tell: The Power of Brevity 

Sometimes, less is more. Telling works best when:

• Bridging time gaps ("Three weeks passed")

• Providing quick background ("She'd always hated thunderstorms")

• Summarizing routine events ("His morning commute was the same as always")

Think of telling as your story's fast-forward button. Use it to move quickly through less important moments so you can spend more time on others.

When to Show: Making Moments Matter 

Showing shines brightest during:

• Emotional peaks

• Critical plot points

• Character-defining moments

• Key relationship developments

These are the scenes where readers want to feel present, where every detail matters.

Finding the Sweet Spot 

Here's a practical example:

Telling: "John spent the morning running errands." (Perfect for summarizing routine activities)

Showing: "John's hands trembled as he opened the letter, his heart pounding against his ribs." (Better for important, emotional moments)

The Art of Transitions 

One of the trickiest skills is moving smoothly between showing and telling. Here's how:

• Use telling to set up shown scenes

• Gradually zoom in from broad telling to detailed showing

• Let shown moments naturally fade back into telling

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Showing everything (exhausting for readers)

• Telling during crucial moments (robs emotional impact)

• Jarring switches between techniques

• Over-explaining shown moments

Making It Work: Practical Tips

• Read your work aloud – you'll often hear when the balance is off

• Ask yourself: "Does this moment matter to the story?"

• Practice combining both techniques in single paragraphs

• Study how your favorite authors handle this balance

Real-World Examples 

Consider this progression:

Telling: "The summer was unusually hot."

Mixed: "The summer was unusually hot, and today was the worst yet. Sarah's shirt clung to her back as she trudged up the hill, each step kicking up dust from the parched earth.".

Showing: "Sweat trickled down Sarah's spine as she climbed, her boots raising small clouds of dust with each heavy step."

Each version serves a different purpose and pace.

On top of that, it is common for first drafts to have many "mixed" examples throughout your chapters. That is one of the reasons revisions are so important, but that is the subject for another day.

Deep Dive: Mastering Point of View for Powerful Storytelling

Any scene you write can have perspectives. As an author you can use different perspectives to increase or decrease the intensity of a scene. This art lies in points of view(POV). Let's explore a bit how choosing perspective can transform your storytelling from mundane to memorable.

Understanding Point of View's Power 

Think of POV as your story's camera lens. Sometimes you want a wide shot showing everything, and other times you need to zoom right into your character's thoughts. This choice shapes how readers experience your story and connect with your characters.

Different perspectives create different experiences:

• First Person: "I walked into the room"

• Third Person Limited: "Sarah walked into the room"

• Third Person Omniscient: "They all walked into the room"

It is important to be consistent in your writing so that the reader has consistency. One of the worst experiences I have when reading is getting lost throughout a scene with many POVs.

Deep POV: Getting Inside Your Character's Head 

Deep POV is like having a front-row seat to your character's thoughts and feelings. It's intimate. It's immediate. It's powerful. Here's how it works:

Instead of: "Tom was worried about the test results"

Try: "The envelope sat unopened on the kitchen table. Five minutes. Ten. Tom's coffee grew cold as he stared at his name printed in stark black letters. One phone call to the doctor would end this torture, but his fingers refused to dial."

See the difference? The second version pulls readers right into Tom's experience. There are even books that use mind dialogue that allows you inside

Making Emotions Real 

Deep POV excels at showing emotions without naming them:

Basic: "Lisa was angry at her brother"

Deep POV: "Of course Jake had taken the car without asking. Again. Lisa's teeth ground together as she checked the time. Late for work, and her perfect attendance record circling the drain – all because her brother couldn't be bothered to send a simple text."

Common POV Pitfalls to Avoid

• Head-hopping (switching perspectives mid-scene)

• Telling emotions in deep POV ("She felt sad")

• Including information the POV character wouldn't know

• Inconsistent narrative distance

Practical Tips for Strong POV Writing

• Stay in character: Only describe what your POV character would notice

• Use character voice: Let their personality shape the narrative

• Show internal reactions: Physical sensations, thoughts, and impulses

• Filter descriptions through character perspective

Advanced POV Techniques 

Consider how your character's mood affects what they notice:

• A happy character might focus on bright colors and pleasant sounds

• An anxious character might notice every potential threat

• A distracted character might miss important details

Making POV Work for Your Story 

Your chosen POV should serve your story's needs:

• Want intimacy? Go deep first person

• Need mystery? Try limited third person

• Want to show multiple perspectives? Consider omniscient or alternating POVs

Keeping it Consistent 

Consistency is key to maintaining reader immersion. Think about:

• How much internal thought to include

• How to handle sensory information

• When to zoom in and out

• How to transition between scenes

Exercises to Strengthen Your POV Game

1. Rewrite a scene from different perspectives

2. Practice describing a room through different emotional states

3. Write the same event from opposing characters' viewpoints

Bringing It All Together 

Remember, POV is more than choosing between "I" and "she." It's about creating a lens through which your readers experience the story. Choose your perspective thoughtfully. Maintain consistency, and let your characters' unique voices shine through.

The right POV can make your story unforgettable. Experiment with different perspectives until you find the one that brings your story to life. Your readers will thank you for the immersive experience.

Pro tip: On revision you can try and rewrite a scene from a different perspective to see how it differ.

The Editor's Eye: Polishing Your Work to Perfection

Ready to transform your rough draft into a masterpiece? Editing is where the magic happens. It's where good writing becomes great, and where showing truly comes alive. Let's dive into how to edit your work with precision and purpose.

The First Read-Through: Getting the Big Picture 

Step back from your work for a day or two. Fresh eyes make all the difference. When you return, read your piece as if encountering it for the first time. Look for places where the story feels distant or where emotions fall flat. These are often telling moments begging to shown.

Hunting for Hidden "Tells" 

Some words act like red flags for telling:

• Emotion words (sad, happy, angry)

• Vague adjectives (beautiful, nice, good)

• Most adverbs (quickly, sadly, anxiously)

When you spot these, pause. Ask yourself: "How can I show this instead?"

Example: Before: "Sarah was beautiful and walked gracefully." After: "Sarah's presence turned heads, her movements fluid as water over stones."

The Sensory Check 

Our world is alive with sensations. Your writing should be too. During editing, look for opportunities to engage the senses:

• What sounds fill the space?

• Are there distinct smells?

• How do things feel to the touch?

• What tastes might linger?

Dialogue and Action Review 

Strong dialogue and meaningful actions can replace paragraphs of telling. Check for:

• Body language that reinforces words

• Distinct character voices

• Actions that reveal personality

• Authentic reactions to events

Getting Help: The Power of Fresh Eyes 

Beta readers are your secret weapon. They catch things we miss because we're too close to our work. When working with beta readers:

• Ask specific questions

• Encourage honest feedback

• Look for patterns in their comments

• Stay open to suggestions

Creating Your Editing Checklist 

A systematic approach helps catch common issues. Consider these questions:

• Have I shown character emotions through actions?

• Are my settings woven naturally into scenes?

• Do my descriptions engage most senses?

• Does each scene advance the story while revealing character?

Common Editing Pitfalls to Avoid

• Over-editing until the life is squeezed out.

• Replacing every "tell" with a "show". Remember the balance!

• Adding unnecessary details.

• Losing your unique voice in the process.

Making the Changes 

Edit in passes, focusing on one aspect at a time:

1. First pass: Big picture showing vs. telling

2. Second pass: Sensory details

3. Third pass: Character emotions and reactions

4. Final pass: Flow and pacing

Tools and Techniques

• Use highlighting tools to mark different types of telling

• Read dialogue aloud to check authenticity

• Create character emotion maps

• Track sensory details scene by scene

The Final Polish 

Once you've addressed the big items:

• Check for rhythm and flow

• Ensure transitions are smooth

• Verify that showing serves the story

• Trust your instincts

Remember: Progress Over Perfection 

Editing is a skill that grows with practice. Don't expect perfection on your first try – or your hundredth. Each edit makes your work stronger, and each story teaches you something new.

Pro tip: Keep a journal of effective showing techniques you discover. Note what works and what doesn't. Your future self will thank you for these insights.

Moving Forward 

Remember, the goal isn't to eliminate all telling – it's to find the right balance for your story. Trust your instincts, but verify with beta readers. Keep practicing, keep learning, and most importantly, keep writing.

The best editors are patient detectives who search for opportunities to bring their stories to life. Take your time, trust the process, and watch your writing transform.

Your Story Starts Now

You've got the tools, you know the techniques, and now it's time to bring your stories to life.

Think about it – every great author started where you are now. They faced the same blank page, wrestled with the same challenges, and made the same journey from telling to showing. What made them different? They started writing.

But here's the most important truth: somewhere out there, a reader is waiting for your unique story. They need your voice, perspective, and way of seeing the world.

Open that blank document. Grab that fresh notebook. Start writing. Start showing.

Your story matters.

The world is ready for your words. Are you?

Let's make some magic.