Annoying Writing Habits That Ruin Your Story (And How to Avoid Them)

The Huge Annoying Writing Habits!

We’ve all encountered them: stories that promise excitement but deliver flat characters, lazy exposition, and a general sense of disappointment. As writers, we strive to create worlds and characters that resonate with our audience, but it’s easy to fall into common traps that undermine our efforts. In this post, we’ll explore five annoying writing habits that can sabotage your storytelling and, more importantly, how to avoid them.

1. The Most Annoying Writing Habits: “Show, Don’t Tell”: The Golden Rule of Engaging Storytelling

One of the most fundamental principles of good writing is “show, don’t tell.” It’s a mantra repeated in writing workshops and guides, but its importance can’t be overstated. Telling involves directly stating facts and information to the reader while showing involves using vivid descriptions, actions, dialogue, and sensory details to allow the reader to experience the story firsthand.

Imagine you’re writing a scene where a character is nervous. Telling might look like this: “Sarah was nervous.” It’s direct, but it lacks impact. Showing, on the other hand, could look like this: “Sarah’s palms were slick with sweat as she smoothed down her dress. Her heart hammered against her ribs like a trapped bird, and she couldn’t seem to make eye contact with anyone.”

The latter example engages the reader’s senses and allows them to infer Sarah’s nervousness through her physical reactions and behavior. This approach is far more immersive and allows the reader to connect with the character on a deeper level.

Why Showing Works:

• Engagement: Showing draws the reader into the story, making them active participants rather than passive observers.
• Emotion: By showing emotions through actions and reactions, you create a more visceral and believable experience for the reader.
• Imagination: Showing allows the reader to fill in the gaps with their imagination, making the story more personal and memorable.

How to Practice Showing:

• Focus on Sensory Details: Engage all five senses in your descriptions. What does the scene look, sound, smell, taste, and feel like?
• Use Action and Dialogue: Let your characters’ actions and words reveal their personalities and motivations.
• Avoid Explanations: Resist the urge to explain everything to the reader. Trust them to piece things together based on the clues you provide.

Diving Deeper: Mastering “Show, Don’t Tell” for Powerful Storytelling

As the video transcript emphasizes, “Show, Don’t Tell” is a cornerstone of engaging storytelling. It’s about creating an immersive experience for your readers, allowing them to actively participate in the story rather than passively receiving information. Instead of simply stating facts or emotions, you use descriptive language, actions, dialogue, and sensory details to paint a vivid picture in the reader’s mind.

The video transcript uses the example of parenting to illustrate this point: being told “Don’t stay out late” is far less effective than experiencing the consequences of staying out late. The same principle applies to writing. Instead of telling the reader what to think or feel, you want to create situations that evoke those thoughts and feelings organically.

Why “Show, Don’t Tell” Matters:

• Creates Immersion: Showing pulls the reader into the world you’re creating, making them feel like they’re experiencing the story alongside the characters.
• Evokes Emotion: By showing actions and reactions, you can elicit powerful emotions in the reader without explicitly stating them.
• Engages the Imagination: Showing allows the reader to fill in the gaps, interpreting the scene and characters in their way.
• Builds Trust: Readers are more likely to trust a writer who shows rather than tells. It demonstrates confidence in your storytelling abilities.

Key Techniques for “Showing” Effectively:

1. Sensory Details:

• • Engage all five senses: sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch.
  • Instead of saying “The room was messy,” describe the details: “Clothes were strewn across the floor, a half-eaten plate of food sat on the desk, and the air hung heavy with the scent of stale pizza.”
  • By engaging the senses, you allow the reader to construct their image of the messy room.

1. Action and Behavior:

• • Let your characters’ actions speak louder than words.
  • Instead of saying “He was angry,” show him clenching his fists, his face turning red, and his voice rising.
  • The transcript mentions the example of a character who stops using her retainer as her anxiety decreases. This small detail shows character development without directly stating it.

1. Dialogue:

• • Use dialogue to reveal character, advance the plot, and create tension.
  • Avoid purely expository dialogue. Let characters reveal information through natural conversation.
  • Instead of “I’m telling you this because I’m delivering exposition and this story needs it because you’re stupid,” try something like “Hey, did you know I deliver exposition in this story and you should accept it because you’re stupid?” (okay, maybe don’t use that one…)

1. Internal Monologue:

• • Use a character’s thoughts and feelings to reveal their inner state.
  • However, avoid using internal monologue to explain things that could be shown through action or dialogue.
  • Example: Instead of “She was nervous about the presentation,” try “Her palms were sweating. What if I forget everything? What if they laugh?“

Examples from the Transcript Expanded:

• The “Crazy Guy” Example: The transcript provides a compelling example of showing rather than telling when describing a mentally ill individual. Instead of simply stating “There’s a crazy guy in the corner,” the transcript suggests describing the scene: “Walking down the street, having a conversation, a fellow with hands in armpits starts clucking at them, and the conversation proceeds around the fellow clucking at them and assaulting them with a pecking motion.” This vivid description allows the reader to infer the man’s mental state without being explicitly told.
• The Retainer Example: The female protagonist with anger and anxiety gradually stops using her retainer. This is an example of character growth without explicitly stating it. Instead of saying “She’s less anxious now,” the author shows the change through the character’s actions and the mother’s observation.

Pitfalls to Avoid:

• Info Dumps: Avoid lengthy passages of exposition that interrupt the flow of the story.
• Over-Description: While detailed descriptions are important, avoid overwhelming the reader with too much information.
• Telling Emotions: Show emotions through actions, dialogue, and internal monologue rather than simply stating them.

Applying “Show, Don’t Tell” to Different Genres:

• Fantasy: Instead of telling the reader that a city is magical, describe the shimmering buildings, the strange creatures that inhabit it, and the way the air crackles with energy.
• Mystery: Instead of telling the reader that a suspect is lying, show their nervous tics, their evasive eye contact, and their inconsistent answers.
• Romance: Instead of telling the reader that two characters are attracted to each other, show the way they look at each other, the way they touch, and the way their hearts race when they’re near.

By mastering the art of “Show, Don’t Tell,” you can transform your writing from a passive recitation of facts into an immersive and engaging experience for your readers. It requires practice and attention to detail, but the rewards are well worth the effort.

2. Craft Believable Characters: Beyond Simple Descriptions

Characters are the heart and soul of any story. They drive the plot, evoke emotions, and leave a lasting impression on the reader. However, creating truly believable characters requires more than just listing their traits and backstories. It requires delving into their complexities, flaws, and motivations.

One common mistake is to simply tell the reader about a character’s attributes. For example, stating that a character is “brave” without demonstrating their bravery through their actions is ineffective. Instead, show the character facing their fears, making difficult choices, and standing up for what they believe in, even when it’s risky.

Similarly, when portraying characters with mental disorders or other complex issues, it’s crucial to approach the subject with sensitivity and authenticity. Avoid relying on stereotypes or clichés. Instead, research the condition thoroughly and portray its effects on the character’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a nuanced and realistic way.

Example from the Transcript:

The transcript mentions a character with anger and anxiety issues who gradually stops using her retainer as her anxiety diminishes throughout the story. This subtle detail speaks volumes about her growth and change without explicitly stating it.

Tips for Crafting Believable Characters:

• Give Them Flaws: Imperfect characters are more relatable and believable than flawless ones.
• Show Their Motivations: What drives your characters? What are their goals, desires, and fears?
• Create Backstories: Even if you don’t reveal every detail to the reader, having a well-developed backstory can inform your character’s actions and decisions.

Avoid Annoying Writing Habits While Crafting Believable Characters: More Than Just Traits on a Page

Believable characters are the lifeblood of any compelling story. They are the lens through which readers experience the world you’ve created, and their struggles, triumphs, and flaws are what resonate with the audience long after they’ve finished reading. However, crafting characters that feel real and relatable requires more than just listing a few traits on a character sheet. It requires delving into their complexities, motivations, and internal conflicts.

The video transcript touches on several key aspects of character creation, including:

• Avoiding stereotypes
• Showing character traits through actions and dialogue
• Creating realistic internal conflicts
• Understanding cultural context

1. Beyond Stereotypes: Nuance and Authenticity

One of the most important considerations when crafting characters is to avoid relying on stereotypes. Stereotypes are oversimplified and often inaccurate representations of groups of people, and they can lead to flat, one-dimensional characters that feel inauthentic.

Instead of relying on stereotypes, strive to create characters that are nuanced and complex. Give them unique quirks, flaws, and motivations that set them apart from the crowd. Research the backgrounds and cultures of your characters to ensure that you’re portraying them accurately and respectfully.

The transcript highlights the importance of portraying mental illness with sensitivity and understanding. Instead of simply labeling a character as “crazy,” show the specific symptoms they exhibit and the impact those symptoms have on their lives and relationships.

2. Actions Speak Louder Than Words: Showing Character Traits

As the “Show, Don’t Tell” principle emphasizes, it’s more effective to show character traits through actions and dialogue than to simply state them outright. Instead of telling the reader that a character is brave, show them facing their fears and making difficult decisions. Instead of telling the reader that a character is kind, show them performing acts of compassion and generosity.

The transcript provides a compelling example of this principle:

• A female character with anger and anxiety issues gradually stops using her retainer. This subtle detail shows character development without explicitly stating it. The change is demonstrated through the character’s actions (or lack thereof) and the mother’s observation.

This example illustrates the power of small, seemingly insignificant details in revealing character traits and growth.

3. Internal Conflicts: The Engine of Character Development

Internal conflicts are the struggles that characters face within themselves, such as conflicting desires, moral dilemmas, or unresolved traumas. These conflicts are essential for driving character development and creating compelling stories.

When crafting your characters, consider what internal conflicts they might be facing. What are their deepest fears and insecurities? What are they struggling to overcome? How do these conflicts shape their decisions and actions?

4. Cultural Context: Shaping Character Beliefs and Behaviors

The cultural context of a story refers to the values, beliefs, customs, and traditions of the society in which the story takes place. Understanding and accurately portraying the cultural context is crucial for creating believable characters.

The transcript emphasizes the importance of considering how the world and period of your story influence your characters’ understanding and reactions to different situations. For example, in a historical setting, characters may not have the same understanding of mental illness or social issues as we do today.

By taking cultural context into account, you can create characters that feel authentic and grounded in their respective worlds.

Examples from the Transcript Expanded:

• Samwise Gamgee: The transcript highlights Samwise Gamgee from “Lord of the Rings” as an example of excellent character development. Sam begins as a humble and unassuming hobbit but gradually grows into a brave and self-assured hero. This transformation is driven by his experiences and challenges throughout the story.

Key Questions to Ask When Crafting Characters:

• What are my character’s strengths and weaknesses?
• What are their goals and motivations?
• What are their fears and insecurities?
• What are their values and beliefs?
• How do they interact with other characters?
• How do they change and grow throughout the story?

By asking these questions and delving into the complexities of your characters, you can create individuals that feel real, relatable, and unforgettable.

3. Avoid the Annoying Writing Habits of “Godly Intervention” Trap: The Problem with Unearned Power

In many fantasy and adventure stories, it’s tempting to give characters instant power-ups or abilities to overcome challenges quickly. However, this can often lead to a lack of tension, stakes, and ultimately, reader engagement. This is what the transcript refers to as the “godly intervention” trap.

When a character suddenly gains immense power without earning it, it undermines the sense of struggle and growth that makes a story compelling. Readers want to see characters overcome obstacles through their own efforts, intelligence, and perseverance. When power is simply handed to them, it diminishes their accomplishments and makes them less relatable.

The Issue with “Power Creep”:

As the transcript mentions, this issue is prevalent in some Eastern comic books (Manhwa) where characters quickly gain godlike abilities, rendering any challenge meaningless. This “power creep” can lead to a story that lacks tension and emotional depth.

Why Unearned Power is Detrimental:

• Lack of Tension: If a character can easily overcome any obstacle, there’s no sense of danger or uncertainty.
• Weak Character Development: Without challenges to overcome, characters have little opportunity to grow and evolve.
• Reader Disconnect: Readers may struggle to connect with a character who is too powerful or privileged.

How to Avoid the Trap:

• Make Power Earned: Ensure that characters must work hard, train, and sacrifice to gain new abilities.
• Introduce Challenges: Create obstacles that test your characters’ limits and force them to grow.
• Focus on the Journey: Emphasize the process of learning and self-discovery rather than simply the end result.

4. The Importance of Character Arcs: Show Growth and Change

A character arc refers to the transformation a character undergoes throughout the course of a story. It’s the journey from who they are at the beginning to who they become by the end. A well-developed character arc is essential for creating compelling stories that resonate with readers.

As the transcript points out, Samwise Gamgee in “Lord of the Rings” is an excellent example of a character with a significant arc. He starts as a humble, unassuming hobbit but gradually grows into a brave and self-assured hero who plays a crucial role in the quest to destroy the Ring.

A character arc doesn’t necessarily mean a character becomes “better” in the traditional sense. They may become wiser, more cynical, more compassionate, or more ruthless. The key is that they change in a meaningful way as a result of their experiences.

Elements of a Strong Character Arc:

• A Starting Point: Establish who the character is at the beginning of the story.
• Challenges and Obstacles: Introduce conflicts that force the characters to confront their flaws and weaknesses.
• Growth and Change: Show how the character learns, adapts, and evolves in response to these challenges.
• A Resolution: Demonstrate the impact of the character’s journey on their life and relationships.

5. Cultural Context Matters When Avoiding Annoying Writing Habits: Ground Your Story in Reality

The cultural context of a story refers to the values, beliefs, customs, and traditions of the society in which the story takes place. Understanding and accurately portraying the cultural context is crucial for creating a believable and immersive world.

As the transcript mentions, it’s important to consider how the world and time period of your story influence your characters’ understanding and reactions to different situations. For example, in a historical setting, characters may not have the same understanding of mental illness or social issues as we do today.

Failing to account for cultural context can lead to anachronisms (elements that are out of place in the historical setting) and can undermine the reader’s suspension of disbelief. It can also perpetuate harmful stereotypes or misrepresentations of different cultures.

Tips for Incorporating Cultural Context:

• Research Thoroughly: Immerse yourself in the culture you’re portraying. Read books, watch movies, and consult with experts.
• Avoid Stereotypes: Be mindful of cultural stereotypes and avoid perpetuating them in your writing.
• Show, Don’t Tell: Use details of daily life, customs, and traditions to bring the cultural context to life.

By avoiding these common writing habits, you can create stories that are more engaging, believable, and impactful. Remember to focus on showing, crafting complex characters, earning power, developing meaningful arcs, and grounding your story in a rich cultural context. Happy writing!

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