How To Show & Not Tell In Short Stories
Master the ‘show, don’t tell‘ technique in short stories. Learn how to create immersive storytelling that draws readers in from the very first line.
‘Show, don’t tell’ is good advice for any writer, but even more so for a short story writer. The limited word count means our writing has to work harder. We really need to pack a punch. Here’s how.
How To Show & Not Tell In Short Stories
1. Â Express emotion as action
2. Â Choose a viewpoint character
By choosing one character to focus on you make it easier for yourself to simplify your scene and make the most of it. Write small.
3. Â Use the senses
Write a list of what your character sees, tastes, smells, hears, and touches. Then write about it without using the words see, hear, feel, touch and taste.
4. Â Be specific
The more specific you are with your descriptions and actions the easier it will become to show.
5.  Avoid these ‘telling’ words: is, are, was, were, have, had
6. Â Use dialogue
This is one of the simplest tools to use. The moment your characters start talking, showing becomes easier.
Show, don’t tell is a very powerful writing tool. Keep practising.
The Last Word
If you want to learn how to write a short story, sign up for our online course. Or buy our comprehensive How To Show & Not Tell Workbook.
by Mia Botha
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