Suppose you are telling your reader, “The character was sad.” What do they imagine? A sad face? A pool of tears? A pity party? It’s not exactly a potential bestseller, is it?

Wondering what’s a way to write ‘I don’t’ without putting your reader to sleep? There’s an amazing concept of “Show, Don’t Tell.” which emphasizes that showing always outperforms telling! Why? Since it enables readers to experience the scene alongside your characters. Stories that can actually give them hints and say, “Figure it out!” and allow them to experience the joy, the sorrow, or the victory.

But wait, Hold on! Not only is it important to show, but it’s also important to make your writing engaging after editing. Because, let’s be honest, even the best “show, don’t tell” moments require some refinement. And that’s where the top online book editors and affordable book editing services can help.

This blog post will explore the reasons why showing is so much more effective than telling, how to show, not tell, in narrative writing, how to make your readers see, feel, and believe every word, and, the best part, how skilled editing can make it all shine. We are going to transform your writing into something that readers won’t be able to put down. So, let’s get started!

Key Takeaways

1. Show, Don’t Tell: Rather than just telling your story, attract readers with actions and detailed descriptions.
2. Allow Characters to Speak through Their Actions: Dialogue and actions convey more information than words ever could.
3. Trust the Reader’s Imagination: Give readers room to imagine and understand; don’t over-explain!
4. Editing Enhances Your Story: Professional book editing companies that are reasonably priced help you refine your work for maximum impact.
5. Keeping the Balance: For a lively and attractive story, create a balance between telling and showing.

What Is “Show, Don’t Tell”?

We know you are eager to get into the details, so let’s start from scratch and see what the meaning of the phrase “Show, Don’t Tell” actually is.

Let’s say someone says, “I’m sad.” That’s pretty clear, but did it emotionally affect you? Instead, consider this:

“She sat at the edge of the bed, her shoulders slumped, a single tear tracing a line down her cheek as she clutched an old photograph.”

Feel that lump in your throat? That’s how ‘showing’ works.

The idea behind “Show, don’t Tell” is to build a more emotional connection and bring readers closer to the main character. Instead of saying, “John was worried,” you can show him biting his nails, avoiding eye contact, or playing with the hem of his shirt.

Basically, show and don’t heavily rely on the use of inference. Readers absolutely love it.

Why?

Because readers don’t want to be entertained, they love it when they have to use their minds to decode something or understand. The “show and don’t tell writing” gives readers that satisfaction.

All types of creative writing, including films and novels, benefit greatly from this technique. When you get it right, your writing becomes memorable. However, it goes beyond simply slathering on purple prose. The actual trick is to make your readers believe and feel!

How to Make Your Readers See, Feel, and Believe

“I recognize terror as the finest emotion, so I will try to terrorize the reader. But if I find that I cannot terrify, I will try to horrify, and if I find that I cannot horrify, I’ll go for the gross-out. I’m not proud.” — Stephen King.

So, it’s all about showing, right? But how? You can use the following strategies.

1. Make Use of Their Senses

Write about what the characters are feeling with their senses, not just what is happening, if you want your readers to see your story. What is the scent of the air? What is the texture of the fabric? Does the coffee taste sweet or bitter?

For example:

Telling: “It was a cold morning.”

Showing: “The frost on the windowpane blurred the early sunlight, and her breath fogged the air as she clutched the thin blanket tighter around her shoulders.”

Or

Telling: An ugly smell made its way to his nostrils.

Showing: A sharp stench of rotten meat forced him to cover his nose with the collar of his thin blue shirt.

Your readers can now share her sense of cold. That’s the objective.

Movie Alert: Think of the opening scene of Frozen. Anna doesn’t just say, “I want to play with Elsa.” Instead, she sings “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?” while bouncing around, trying to get Elsa’s attention. The visuals, actions, and song make her longing clear. (Spoiler alert: Elsa’s door stays shut.)

2. Make Good Use of Dialogues

Effective dialogues and their delivery reveal a character’s personality and motivations in addition to expressing their feelings. Are you writing a character that was different but now belongs or some character who has faced a lot of difficulties? Show it through their speech and social interactions.

For example:

Telling: “He was angry.”

Showing: “Are you kidding me?” He slammed his hand down on the table and barked. “You had one job, and you couldn’t even do that, right?”

Without having to express it obviously, his anger is conveyed by the combination of his words and deeds.

Just like in Stranger Things, Eleven doesn’t discuss her tragedy. Her intense stares, one-word answers, and love for Eggos speak louder than words ever could.

3. Add Emotional Layers

If you want your reader to feel something, you need to go beyond surface-level description. Examine the scene’s underlying emotions in depth.

For example:

Telling: “She was happy to see him.”

Showing: “As soon as he got off the plane, she ran in his direction, a smile so big it nearly ached. Her laughter was muffled by his jacket as she put her arms around his neck.

Feel the happiness?

Just like in Pride and Prejudice, Mr. Darcy does more than simply declare his love for Elizabeth. He expresses his feelings more effectively through his awkward stammering, his annoyance, and his grand gestures, such as helping her sister.

4. Create Contrast and Conflict

Do you want your story to be believed by your readers? Instead of relying just on internal monologues, use decisions and actions to show your characters’ problems and growth.

For example:

Telling: “She used to be an outsider, but now she fits in.”

Showing: “She initially hovered in the shadows, observing the others as they conversed and laughed. The others were leaning in and listening intently to her every word as she took the lead in the joke.”

The most believable way to demonstrate growth is through contrast.

Example without Spoilers: Do you remember how Katniss in The Hunger Games shifts from a reluctant competitor to a rebellious figure? Her journey is shown through her actions, defending Rue, helping Prim, and opposing the Capitol, rather than just her inner monologue.

Tips for Mastering “Show, Don’t Tell”

1. Use Powerful Verbs

Get rid of dull verbs like “was,” “did,” and “went.” Select verbs with greater emotion and weight instead.

For example:

Telling: “He went to the store.”

Showing: “He trudged to the store, his boots kicking up slush with every step.”

2. Have Faith in Your Reader

You don’t have to elaborate too much. Have faith that your readers will see the sensitivities.

For example:

Telling: “She felt scared and alone in the dark.”

Showing: “The darkness closed in around her, the only sound her own uneven breathing.”

3. It’s All About Balance

Yes, showing is great, but there are instances when telling is faster and more effective. For example, you don’t have to show every detail of a character’s morning routine. Sometimes, “She got ready for work” is enough!

Do you need help with finding the ideal balance? Your work can be improved with the help of affordable and professional editing services. Or, just for guidance, you can reach out to the top book editing companies about whether to reveal and when to reveal.

Works in Movies, Books, and Beyond: “Show, Don’t Tell” Examples

Books, films, or series that are worth binge-watching are full of the charm of “Show, Don’t Tell.” It attracts us, enables us to empathize with the characters, and gives their experiences a sense of realism. Let’s look at some more examples.

1. To Kill a Mockingbird – Harper Lee

Atticus Finch from Harper Lee’s classic novel “To Kill a Mockingbird” is a great example of “show, don’t tell.” Despite the town’s racist beliefs, we witness Atticus standing up for Tom Robinson, a black man falsely convicted of raping a white lady. The novel never states, “Atticus was a kind, fair, and moral man.” Lee shows them through his actions, his calm manner, and his determination to justice, even when it is unpopular.

2. The Office

When it comes to Jim and Pam, in particular, “The Office” is a masterwork of nuanced storytelling. There is never any announcement of their connection, such as “Jim secretly loves Pam but can’t tell her.” Rather, the program shows Jim’s stolen glances at Pam while she’s engaged, their inside jokes, and the brief moments in which their chemistry is obvious.

Do you remember the scene where Jim presents Pam with a teapot full of personal mementos for Christmas? There are no better words to describe their relationship than that little teapot. It’s a collection of their shared memories.

3. The Fault in Our Stars – John Green

The “Fault in Our Stars” by John Green conveys strong feelings to the reader without having to tell them directly. Small yet meaningful moments, such as their awkward but sincere chats, glances, and consoling one another during difficult times, reveal Hazel and Gus’s connection. Instead of simply saying, “Hazel loved this book and wanted to share it with Gus,” Green shows her connection to the book when Hazel is discussing her favorite book, “An Imperial Affliction,” with Augustus. She describes Hazel’s hesitant but passionate desire to explain the book’s significance, making it clear how deeply it affected her without ever outright stating it.

4. Friends

Ah, “Friends” is a show that is perfect for understanding “Show, Don’t Tell” moments.

Take Chandler and Monica’s relationship, for example. Although it begins as a secret, their love develops subtly throughout the episodes. Chandler doesn’t comment, “I think Monica’s amazing,” while they are at Ross’s wedding in London. Rather, it is shown by the way he encourages her, cracks jokes with her, and eventually wakes up next to her. From there, their small actions, holding hands beneath the table, Monica resting her head on Chandler’s shoulder, say everything about their growing relationship.

Another great example is Ross’s affection for Rachel. The episode shows us Ross’s famous prom video rather than simply stating, “Ross has been in love with Rachel since high school.” Watching him nervously get ready to take Rachel to prom when her date stands her up is something that words can never explain. And when the group watches the tape years later, Rachel’s kiss reveals all we need to know about her love for Ross.

5. Stranger Things

Stranger Things relies more on showing than on explaining to convey its emotional impact.

Do you remember Eleven’s past? We see her flashbacks of the sterile white chambers, the horrifying experiments, and her desperate escape rather than just being over flooded with words about her horrific experiences in the lab. Without a single syllable of language to describe it, these glimpses allow us to piece together her story and understand her suffering.

The same is true of Will’s absence in Season 1. The show doesn’t just declare, “His friends and family were devastated.” Instead, we see Joyce’s desperate attempts to connect with him by stringing Christmas lights, Mike’s determination to find him, and the bond that develops between the children as they look for their friends.

How We Learn to “Show, Don’t Tell” from These Stories?

These scenes from Friends and other well-known series and books explain how characters become more approachable and their feelings more relatable when they are shown rather than spoken. We don’t need someone to explain to us how Walter White changes from a kind teacher to a vicious drug lord, how Ross loves Rachel, or how Eleven is troubled by her history. We perceive, sense, and accept it.

This is the power we wish to use as authors. Show them rushing into a burning building to save someone rather than stating, “My character is brave.” Show her fighting to hold her tears when she sees her ex rather than saying, “She’s heartbroken.”

You can write stories that stay with readers long after the last page by allowing them to feel the same feelings and sensations as the characters.

The Influence of Top Online Book Editors on Improving Show

You may be asking yourself, “This is great, but how can I make sure that my showing doesn’t turn into telling?” This is where affordable book editing services are useful. An online book editor can be your best option if you are writing your first book or have already written plenty in the past. Their editing services focus on perfecting your writing so that your “telling” is subtle and your “showing” is strong.

Moreover, you can improve your character’s emotions, cut out extra descriptions, and tighten your prose with the help of top book editing companies like BookQuill. So, don’t panic if you have created that epic story but are having trouble making the ideal balance between shows and don’t tell.

Final Thoughts

Showing is more powerful than telling in creative writing, as it allows readers to enter your world and feel it personally. From movies like The Dark Knight to novels like The Great Gatsby, the secret to making memorable and captivating stories is to become an expert at showing rather than telling.

Keep in mind that a strong first draft is not the end of the road as you create your next masterpiece. You can improve the details, improve your writing, and make sure your story is captivating from beginning to end with the assistance of a top online book editor.

Showing is an art form, after all, but editing effectively? That power can raise your writing from decent to remarkable.

Happy writing!

FAQs

What Is the Best Way to Show a Character’s Emotions Without Telling?

Pay attention to reactions, conversation, and body language. For example, rather than just saying, “He was sad,” show him wiping away a tear or gazing out into space.

How Do I Use “Show, Don’t Tell” In Dialogue?

Allow characters to use tone and behavior to convey their feelings. Have them yell, “I’ve had enough!” while walking back and forth to show their anger rather than just telling it.

How Can I Make My Writing More Vivid With “Show, Don’t Tell”?

To fully engage readers in the world you are creating, include sensory aspects such as sight, sound, smell, and touch. Instead of just mentioning the scenario, describe the fresh air or the bustle of a busy street.

What Makes Affordable Book Editing Services A Good Option?

They provide insightful criticism without going over your budget, assisting you in improving your “Show, Don’t Tell” strategy and guaranteeing that your story is captivating at a reasonable cost.

Can I Get Help From the Top Book Editing Companies?

Yes! The best book editors can offer expert guidance on how to move from telling to showing, which can enhance your writing and make it easier for readers to relate to your story.

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About Author

Hi My name is Micheal Adams, When I am not watching horror movies and helping my kids with homework or reading my favorite fantasy/supernatural novels – I’m writing to guide aspiring authors. I focus on exploring and simplifying both the technical aspects and the often-overlooked details of book writing and publishing so I can empower new writers to climb the Amazon bestseller list and connect with more readers.