Creatives - Show Not Tell

[david.ko3]

Hi all!
I have to write a creative for our multi-modal for Module C assessment but there is a creative component which I am struggling to show not tell. I realized as the story progresses, I am leaning towards the more telling things rather than showing things. I don't have much time to improve on my English but what is the fastest way to improve show not tell? I really need Band 5 for English. Thank you so much!!!

[InnererSchweinehund]

what is the fastest way to improve show not tell?

Hi!

I often find the best way to show not tell is to create a strong atmosphere and establish imagery, whether it is visual or another sense.
Normally I would do this through using adjectives, action, and strong verbs, but stop short of saying what exactly is happening.
Eg. Telling - She felt cold.
       Showing - She vigorously rubbed her hands together for warmth.

Another good way to 'show' is through using emotions and actions / body language to explain what the character is feeling.
Eg. Telling - She was so angry
      Showing - She stomped her feet furiously and furrowed her brow.

Eg. Telling - She hated the smell there
       Showing - She pulled her face into a familiar grimmance as the scent of cigarettes burnt her nostrils
^Try and avoid using basic 'telling words' like 'saw', 'heard','felt', 'smelt'

Hopefully these ideas can help get you started!

I don't have much time to improve on my English

Even if you don't have much time, a little bit of time each day could be spent on crafting a short story. I definitely find handing my teacher lots of work and getting feedback is what helps me the most!

Good luck!! 

[Tierney_P]

Hello!

I'm practising creative writing atm.....how do I steer away from cliche plot lines? I find that I keep reverting to the same old fairytale-like story iykwim?

Thanks!

[Dan1345]

As a writer, you need to have respect for your reader in that you believe in their ability to read between the lines. Try to use non-cliched expressions as well. This will make your submission more sophisticated and nuanced. Hope this helps :/

Display an internal emotion through external means
e.g. He was scared and wanted to leave ----> His legs trembled uncontrollably in sync with his bounding heart as his eyes foraged for a way out.