Show Don't Tell

Whenever I am scheduled to give a speech, I suffer with wet, clammy hands and butterflies in my stomach.

• Show

• Tell

Bill was frightened. He thought someone was behind him. 

• Show

• Tell

The little girl looked in the window.

• Show

• Tell

She jumped back suddenly.

• nervous

• confused

• sad

• surprised

He clenched his fist.

• sad

• angry

• confused

• relaxed

She bit her lip.

• sad

• confused

• nervous

• surprised

She grinned broadly.

• surprised

• happy

• confused

• relaxed

What does the phrase 'Show, Don't Tell' mean in writing?

• Use descriptive language to create vivid images

• Tell the reader exactly what is happening

• Use more dialogue in the story

• Write in the first person point of view

Which of the following sentences best illustrates the 'Show, Don't Tell' technique?

• She was very angry.

• Her face turned red, and she slammed the door.

• She said she was angry.

• She felt a surge of anger.

In the context of 'Show, Don't Tell', which sentence is more effective?

• He was nervous.

• His hands trembled as he reached for the microphone.

• He told everyone he was nervous.

• He felt nervous.