How can you create a more immersive and engaging experience for your readers?

What Does “Show, Don’t Tell” Mean?

“Show, don’t tell” is one of the most common pieces of advice writers receive. But what does that mean? How does this advice help improve a writer’s work?

If you want to engage your readers, “show, don’t tell” is sound advice. This practice helps readers experience the story rather than merely being told about what’s happening. It involves using vivid descriptions, sensory details, and actions instead of bland statements or explanations. Consider these two examples:

Telling: Sarah was nervous about the presentation.

Showing: Sarah’s hands trembled as she fumbled with her note cards, her heartbeat pounding in her ears.

The second sentence conveys Sarah’s nervousness through her physical reactions instead of simply stating how she feels.

Why Is “Show, Don’t Tell” Important?

When you show rather than tell, you:

• Make deeper emotional connections with readers.
• Create stories and scenes that are more immersive by engaging the senses.
• Enable readers to interpret emotions and themes instead of passively receiving the information.

What Techniques Convey “Show” Instead of “Tell”

#1. Use Sensory Details

Incorporate sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell to create a vivid picture.

Telling: The garden was beautiful.

Showing: The garden bursts with color—vivid red roses, golden marigolds, and the fresh scent of lavender drifting through the air.

#2. Show Emotions Through Actions

Instead of naming an emotion, describe how it manifests physically or behaviorally.

Telling: He was angry.

Showing: His fists clenched, his jaw tightened, and his voice came out in a sharp whisper.

#3. Use Dialogue to Reveal Character and Emotion

Dialogue can convey emotions and relationships naturally.

Telling: She was worried about her son.

Showing: “Where have you been?” Her voice wavered as she gripped his arm. “I was calling you for hours.”

#4. Replace Weak Verbs with Stronger Actions

Avoid passive verbs like “was” or “felt” when possible.

Telling: He was tired after the race.

Showing: He collapsed onto the grass, sweat dripping down his face, his chest heaving as he gasped for air.

When Is It Okay to Tell?

While showing is crucial, I feel there are times when telling is appropriate. So, I recommend using it when:

• You need to convey background information quickly.
• The detail isn’t significant enough to develop into a full scene.
• Pacing must be maintained, and lengthy descriptions would slow the story down.

For example, stating “It was winter” may be sufficient. A more elaborate description may not be necessary if the season isn’t a focal point of the scene.

How Does This Practice Apply to Nonfiction?

While often associated with fiction, “show, don’t tell” is equally important in nonfiction writing. Whether you’re writing an article, a memoir, or a business report, using vivid details and concrete examples makes your work more engaging.

Personal Narratives: Rather than writing, “It was a difficult time,” describe the experience: “I woke up each morning feeling a heavy weight in my chest, dreading the day ahead.”

Business Writing: Rather than writing, “Our product improves efficiency,” show how: “With our software, teams cut their reporting time in half, freeing up hours for strategic planning.”

Health and Science Writing: Instead of asserting, “Exercise benefits mental health,” show evidence: “A recent study found that just 30 minutes of daily exercise lowered anxiety levels by 25%.”

By incorporating specific examples, case studies, and sensory details, nonfiction writers can make their work more compelling and memorable.

Mastering “Show, Don’t Tell” Takes Practice

This technique is one of the most powerful ways to make your writing more engaging. Using sensory details, action, and dialogue enables readers to feel your story rather than just read about it. Consider revising a section you’ve written and look for opportunities to “show” rather than “tell” your readers. The difference it makes might surprise you!