Thinking about publishing a book? If you’re looking to transition into descriptive writing, there are some key components worth learning.
Learning how to become a better writer has a myriad of benefits. Learning how to write descriptively helps your audience connect with characters. It also helps keep readers engaged in the plot.
Learning how to write better shouldn’t be an overwhelming experience. Here’s a list of fool-proof ways to improve your descriptive writing skills.
Descriptive Writing Techniques
Incorporate analogies and metaphors.
Comparative language is the bread and butter of descriptive storytelling. Readers that can identify with your analogies and metaphors have an easier time following your passage. With experience, you’ll learn to properly incorporate comparative language into your writing.
Master your verb choice.
When it comes to being descriptive, less is more. Brilliant verb choice takes your narration over the top. For instance, instead of having a character eat a plate of food, saying they devoured their entrée enhances the imagery.
Show, don’t tell.
One of the most effective tools when writing your story is the “show, don’t tell” technique. This writing trick allows you to be descriptive using sensory details. Taste, smell, texture, sound, and visual text help the reader emulate the experience like the characters within the story. Remember to prioritize the prevalent sensory details.
Exclude obvious details.
Don’t overstate obvious details. It’s possible to be too descriptive and weaken your story, which strays the reader away from pivotal details. If your verbs are strong enough, you can eliminate adverbs to avoid distracting your audience.
Speak from the character’s point of view.
Character development is essential when you write descriptively. You want your reader to experience the character’s point of view, so take time to visualize how the character speaks, their mannerisms, and how they interact with other characters before you begin writing.
Seek inspiration.
Don’t be afraid to read other descriptive stories for inspiration. Reading excerpts from bestselling authors helps you write for your target audience. This is especially beneficial for beginners.
Descriptions paint a picture for readers. Learning how to improve writing skills and grow your audience is easy with the right techniques. Everything from adequate word choice to mastering character point of view helps take your description writing to new heights.
If you're looking for help on how to write and publish your first book, make sure you grab a copy of The Get It Done Workbook by clicking here.
Respectfully,
Ashley M.King
The Get It Done Queen®️
www.ashleymking.com Award-winning Self Publishing Strategist helping people of faith tell their story by writing a book and leverage their message to create brands and not just books.