We’ve all heard the rule to “show, don’t tell.” Heck, we’ve talked about it here. So, is it ever okay to tell instead of show? As a matter of fact, there are some particular circumstances where it’s better to tell. After all, we’re called storytellers, right?

1. Character description: Give the reader a quick picture of your character. You only need one or two characteristics and your reader can fill in the blanks. Then get back to your story.
2. Convey essential facts: Summarize that which is too boring to dramatize. The most important rule to follow: Don’t bore your reader. So, when you must impart dull info, just tell it and get back to your story.
3. Passage of time: Need to advance two months? Don’t feel compelled to drag your reader through it. Mark the passage of time with something that happened (your protagonist grows a beard, she graduates, etc.) and then put us in the new setting two months down the road. Tell us and move on with your story.
4. Backstory: It’s great if you can dramatize backstory, but if there’s something minor you need to get in, just tell us. Keep it brief and move on. Minimize any backstory in your opening chapter. Instead of an info dump, drop bits and pieces of backstory along the way. Your reader is smart. They’ll pick up the bread crumbs.

Showing engages the reader, so try to show as much as possible. Just remember that there are times when it makes more sense to tell. Keep writing!