Writing Tip: Show, Don't Tell. Most of the Time

It has been taught in countless seminars and Story Writing Basics classes, yet many people seem to forget it: Show, Don't Tell. After all, it is easier to just tell readers that a character "smells bad" than "People wince and wrinkle their noses when Jose walks by."

It is a good advice, tried and tested for decades and decades. However, to have a good story, you have to know when to show and when to tell. Just as it is boring to "tell," it is as excruciating to read many words just to know that a person is cruel.

Everything in life, including short story writing, is about balance. Finding just the right time to describe something as an author is as effective as "showing."

In stories where you, as an author, have gathered enough momentum for narration, it is best to continue telling than abruptly stop to "show." It will only lead to distraction by the audience and unnecessarily breaking off a well-gathered momentum.

Experience will let you know when to show or tell, but for now, don't be fooled by the absolution implied by the "show, don't tell" rule. Sometimes, telling is the best way to show.