20 ways to add details to writing

Tell more about the who. Add onomatopoeia

What does the character look like?
How does the character act?
How does the character speak?
CRASH! KABOOM! Snap, crackle, pop!
An onomatopoeia is a word that mimics a sound
of an action. These sound effect words are
often written in all caps and end in an
exclamation point. They may be repeated
(separated by a comma) for impact.

Tell more about the where Add examples – examples

clarify meaning
For example,
For instance,
One kind is...
One type is ...
Like...……
Such as...

Add definitions Add spider legs

Define words that may be lesser known Write more ideas onto the spider legs to support an
idea. Tape it on the draft where it would fall.

Add numbers Add names

For more than just quantities
Add a single sentence of
dialogue
Consider what the character would say
if he could speak 1 – 2 sentences in the
whole piece. DO NOT include pointless
dialogue.
Add action to dialogue
...,”she screamed, slamming the door
...,”he sighed, flopping on the bed
...,”she whispered, darting her eyes
around the room
...,”he grunted, shrugging his shoulders
...,”she sassed, turning on her heel and
walking out

Add longer slinky sentences Add alliteration

Repetition of starting sounds in two or
more consecutive words:

Write an intentionally long sentence.

Look for an opportunity when the
writer wants to calm, slow, or quiet the
mood.

Add sensory details Add prepositional phrases

Add comparisons
Add action verbs
-er, -est words (bigger, biggest)
Verbs are the engine of the sentence.
Add similies, metaphors, idioms
Use vivid verbs.
Quiet as a mouse.
Hissed, chirped, barked, slumped,
Her room is a pig sty.
chattered, examined, staggered
I wish I could go to the movies,

but I have to hit the books.


Add thought-shots
Add insights into the character’s
thoughts and feelings.
Add what the character is thinking, but
not saying.
Add three-item lists
I forked my meat into my mouth.
I forked my meat, potatoes, and corn
into my mouth.
Add slow motion moments
Find moments to stop and develop.
Create space in your draft for
“surgery”.
Repeat a word, phrase, or
sentence.
To create drama and build momentum.
Pedal...pedal...p-e-d-a-a-l-l!!!!