Why “Show, Don’t Tell” is important for a writer

The only thing you can’t do to your reader is bore them. They’ll be okay getting confused, assuming you clear things up soon enough. They’ll be fine looking up words they don’t know. They’ll be grateful when you throw them a twist they hadn’t anticipated.

But they won’t keep turning the pages if they’re bored.

What’s the best way to fight boredom? Show, don’t tell. It’s as difficult to do as it is simple to understand. Sbowing allows the reader to experience the story. Telling explains your story. One is solid, creative writing. The other is mundane, boring writing.

Here’s one way to help you show. Imagine you’re an attorney and your readers are the jury. You’re not allowed to tell the jury what to think. You have to show them the facts and let them decide for themselves. You’ll want to be colorful, clear, and concise to create a vivid picture for your reader to engage them in your story.

Sometimes it’s simple.

Telling: Joe was bored.

Showing: Joe yawned.

Instead of telling your reader Joe was bored, show them and let them discover Joe’s boredom. It’s better writing, and it’s a better experience for your reader.

Sometimes it’s more complicated and costs you several more words, but it’s worth it.

Telling: Joe was tired of biking and knew he was still a mile from home.

Showing: Joe’s calves ached. He could barely raise his head, and when he did, he saw the upcoming hill that stretched for nearly a mile until he’d turn on Elm Avenue and into his driveway.

There are exceptions to the rule. For example, when you want to cover a stretch of time without going into detail, it’s advisable to tell the reader about it instead of showing. You’ll cover the gap quickly and get into more drama. Because drama is the best part of the story, right?

Another example to tell: If you want to convey information that has no action. Just tell it and move on to the drama of your story. If you try to show these parts, you’ll slow your story and bore your reader. Tell the information and get back to the action

This might be the most difficult rule to follow, but it’s one of the most important. Good luck, and keep writing.