Telling is sometimes called using a summary mode. It should be used sparingly because it distances the reader from the viewpoint character’s goals and actions. It is mostly better to show rather than tell.
The concept, Show Don’t Tell, is one of the trickiest things for beginners to grasp. It’s something we teach on our journalism class, and it’s an ‘aha moment’ that can’t be rushed.
1. Avoid using abstract words when you describe a person.
Don’t write: She was a beautiful woman and David was sure that every man in the coffee shop thought so too. He felt jealous.
Do write: You look like an angel. Written in the foam of her cappuccino. David tensed as she smiled at the message from the unseen barista.
2. Avoid adjectives. Use verbs. Adjectives tell. Verbs show.
Don’t write: She spoke in a drunk manner.
Do write: She slurred.
Don’t say: Sarah appeared to be angry as she put her books on the table.
Do say: Sarah slapped her books on the table.
Don’t say: Angus seemed distracted as he walked along the road.
Do say: Angus paused in the road. A car’s brakes screamed. ‘Hey, watch out!’ He jumped at the sound of the angry driver’s voice. ‘Why don’t you look where you’re going?’
3. Don’t generalise. Be specific.
Don’t write: There was a bird outside the room.
Do write: A robin perched on the windowsill.
The more specific you are with your descriptions and actions the easier it will become to show.
4. Use the senses.
Write a list of what your character sees, hears, feels, touches and tastes. Then write about it without using the words see, hear, feel, touch and taste.
5. Dialogue
This is one of the simplest tools to use. The moment your characters start talking, showing becomes easier.
5. Choose a viewpoint character
It is easier if you are experiencing the scene as one character. You can even try writing a scene in first person if this is hard for you. Use it as practice. You can change the viewpoint later if needed
Bincang JurnalistiK 