creative writing on variation

COACHING + PUBLISHING

FORMATTING + DESIGN

FREELANCE COMMUNITY

How to Vary Your Sentence Structure (And Stop Boring Your Readers)

by Ali Luke | Sep 21, 2019

Have you ever received a piece of feedback on your writing that made you think:

“Huh. I never noticed that…but now you mention it, I can see what you mean.”

My novel editor,  the lovely Lorna Fergusson , has given me a lot of insightful feedback over the years. One issue she pointed out was this:

Too many of my sentences started the exact same way — with a character name (or pronoun), then an action.

They’d look something like this:

• He opened the door…
• She frowned…
• He backed away…

This was my “default” sentence setting — the type of sentence I produced when I was hurrying to get the first draft down on paper.

And I hadn’t even noticed.

But as soon as Lorna pointed it out, I could see the problem.

If all your sentences begin in the same way, or if they tend to all be roughly the same length, it can create a rather plodding — even soporific — effect.

Readers notice repetition: As an author, you may well use that to your advantage (think of the number of children’s books that employ repetition)…but it can also be a problem if you didn’t intend to repeat yourself.

Learning to vary your sentence structure can go a long way toward making your writing more interesting to read.

How to vary your sentence structure

Look at something you wrote recently — maybe your last blog post or a chapter of your book.

What patterns crop up in the sentences? Do you tend to start sentences the same way? How long are your sentences, on average? Is there much variation in length?

If you need to make some changes, you might:

1. Vary the subject of your sentences

Especially if, like me, you tend to start with a character name or pronoun.

2. Break up long sentences

Particularly complex ones: see if the new rhythm suits your piece better., 3. use a subordinate (dependent) clause before the subject.

Here’s an example of what that looks like: “Looking across the road…” or “As Mandy watched…”

An example of boring sentence structure

Here’s an example of a passage that isn’t quite working, and a suggested rewrite:

John ran down the street towards Mandy, shouting for her to stop. She turned her head, meeting his eyes for a moment. He hurried forward, hoping she might finally listen. She strode away, ignoring him just as she’d done before.

These aren’t terrible sentences, and any one of these on their own might be fine. But packed together like this, they’re all far too similar:

• Each starts with a name or pronoun, then a verb
• Each has a main clause followed by a subordinate clause…and each subordinate clause begins with a present participle.
• There’s not a lot of variation in length (12 words, 10 words, 8 words, 10 words).

Here’s how I’d rewrite that passage:

John ran down the street towards Mandy. “Stop!” She turned her head and met his eyes. Hurrying forward, he hoped she might finally listen. But instead, she strode away. She was ignoring him – just as she’d done before.

This time, there’s a much greater variety of sentence lengths — the shortest is the single-word sentence of dialogue, and the longest is the last sentence, at nine words.

The sentences have a variety of structures – e.g. “She turned her head and met his eyes” is a compound sentence with two coordinate clauses (the sentence could be broken into two sentences at the “and”).

While it may not be the finest prose, it now reads more smoothly: It sounds like the author knows what they’re doing.

Varying sentence structure in your writing

It’s incredibly easy to fall into the trap of having too many similarly structured sentences.

Thankfully, a few tweaks during editing can easily fix things!

Keep in mind, though, that you don’t need to change every sentence. Your go-to sentence structure might work fine some of the time.

If you’re struggling to come up with different types of sentences, or if you’ve got a sentence that isn’t working but you’re not sure why, you might want to check out June Casagrande’s book It was the Best of Sentences, it was the Worst of Sentences: A Writer’s Guide to Crafting Killer Sentences for lots of example and insights.

Next time you edit a piece of your writing — or someone else’s — pay close attention to sentence structure. Could a few minor tweaks make the whole piece work much better?

This is an updated version of a story that was previously published. We update our posts as often as possible to ensure they’re useful for our readers.

Want to create or adapt books like this? Learn more about how Pressbooks supports open publishing practices.

7.1 Sentence Variety

Learning objectives.

• Identify ways to vary sentence structure.
• Write and revise sentence structure at the beginning of sentences.
• Write and revise sentence structure by connecting ideas.

Have you ever ordered a dish in a restaurant and been not happy with its taste, even though it contained most of your favorite ingredients? Just as a meal might lack the finishing touches needed to spice it up, so too might a paragraph contain all the basic components but still lack the stylistic finesse required to engage a reader. Sometimes writers have a tendency to reuse the same sentence pattern throughout their writing. Like any repetitive task, reading text that contains too many sentences with the same length and structure can become monotonous and boring. Experienced writers mix it up by using an assortment of sentence patterns, rhythms, and lengths.

In this chapter, you will follow a student named Naomi who has written a draft of an essay but needs to refine her writing. This section discusses how to introduce sentence variety into writing, how to open sentences using a variety of techniques, and how to use different types of sentence structure when connecting ideas. You can use these techniques when revising a paper to bring life and rhythm to your work. They will also make reading your work more enjoyable.

Incorporating Sentence Variety

Experienced writers incorporate sentence variety into their writing by varying sentence style and structure. Using a mixture of different sentence structures reduces repetition and adds emphasis to important points in the text. Read the following example:

During my time in office I have achieved several goals. I have helped increase funding for local schools. I have reduced crime rates in the neighborhood. I have encouraged young people to get involved in their community. My competitor argues that she is the better choice in the upcoming election. I argue that it is ridiculous to fix something that isn’t broken. If you reelect me this year, I promise to continue to serve this community.

In this extract from an election campaign, the writer uses short, simple sentences of a similar length and style. Writers often mistakenly believe that this technique makes the text more clear for the reader, but the result is a choppy, unsophisticated paragraph that does not grab the audience’s attention. Now read the revised paragraph with sentence variety:

During my time in office, I have helped increase funding for local schools, reduced crime rates in the neighborhood, and encouraged young people to get involved in their community. Why fix what isn’t broken? If you reelect me this year, I will continue to achieve great things for this community. Don’t take a chance on an unknown contender; vote for the proven success.

Notice how introducing a short rhetorical question among the longer sentences in the paragraph is an effective means of keeping the reader’s attention. In the revised version, the writer combines the choppy sentences at the beginning into one longer sentence, which adds rhythm and interest to the paragraph.

Effective writers often implement the “rule of three,” which is basically the thought that things that contain three elements are more memorable and more satisfying to readers than any other number. Try to use a series of three when providing examples, grouping adjectives, or generating a list.

Combine each set of simple sentences into a compound or a complex sentence. Write the combined sentence on your own sheet of paper.

• Heroin is an extremely addictive drug. Thousands of heroin addicts die each year.
• Shakespeare’s writing is still relevant today. He wrote about timeless themes. These themes include love, hate, jealousy, death, and destiny.
• Gay marriage is now legal in six states. Iowa, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine all permit same-sex marriage. Other states are likely to follow their example.
• Prewriting is a vital stage of the writing process. Prewriting helps you organize your ideas. Types of prewriting include outlining, brainstorming, and idea mapping.
• Mitch Bancroft is a famous writer. He also serves as a governor on the local school board. Mitch’s two children attend the school.

Collaboration

Please share with a classmate and compare your answers.

Using Sentence Variety at the Beginning of Sentences

Read the following sentences and consider what they all have in common:

John and Amanda will be analyzing this week’s financial report.

The car screeched to a halt just a few inches away from the young boy.

Students rarely come to the exam adequately prepared.

If you are having trouble figuring out why these sentences are similar, try underlining the subject in each. You will notice that the subject is positioned at the beginning of each sentence— John and Amanda , the car , students . Since the subject-verb-object pattern is the simplest sentence structure, many writers tend to overuse this technique, which can result in repetitive paragraphs with little sentence variety.

Naomi wrote an essay about the 2008 government bailout. Read this excerpt from Naomi’s essay:

This section examines several ways to introduce sentence variety at the beginning of sentences, using Naomi’s essay as an example.

Starting a Sentence with an Adverb

One technique you can use so as to avoid beginning a sentence with the subject is to use an adverb. An adverb is a word that describes a verb, adjective, or other adverb and often ends in – ly . Examples of adverbs include quickly , softly , quietly , angrily , and timidly . Read the following sentences:

She slowly turned the corner and peered into the murky basement.

Slowly, she turned the corner and peered into the murky basement.

In the second sentence, the adverb slowly is placed at the beginning of the sentence. If you read the two sentences aloud, you will notice that moving the adverb changes the rhythm of the sentence and slightly alters its meaning. The second sentence emphasizes how the subject moves—slowly—creating a buildup of tension. This technique is effective in fictional writing.

Note that an adverb used at the beginning of a sentence is usually followed by a comma. A comma indicates that the reader should pause briefly, which creates a useful rhetorical device. Read the following sentences aloud and consider the effect of pausing after the adverb:

Cautiously, he unlocked the kennel and waited for the dog’s reaction.

Solemnly, the policeman approached the mayor and placed him under arrest.

Suddenly, he slammed the door shut and sprinted across the street.

In an academic essay, moving an adverb to the beginning of a sentence serves to vary the rhythm of a paragraph and increase sentence variety.

Naomi has used two adverbs in her essay that could be moved to the beginning of their respective sentences. Notice how the following revised version creates a more varied paragraph:

Adverbs of time—adverbs that indicate when an action takes place—do not always require a comma when used at the beginning of a sentence. Adverbs of time include words such as yesterday , today , later , sometimes , often , and now .

On your own sheet of paper, rewrite the following sentences by moving the adverbs to the beginning.

• The red truck sped furiously past the camper van, blaring its horn.
• Jeff snatched at the bread hungrily, polishing off three slices in under a minute.
• Underage drinking typically results from peer pressure and lack of parental attention.
• The firefighters bravely tackled the blaze, but they were beaten back by flames.
• Mayor Johnson privately acknowledged that the budget was excessive and that further discussion was needed.

Starting a Sentence with a Prepositional Phrase

A prepositional phrase is a group of words that behaves as an adjective or an adverb, modifying a noun or a verb. Prepositional phrases contain a preposition (a word that specifies place, direction, or time) and an object of the preposition (a noun phrase or pronoun that follows the preposition).

Table 7.1 Common Prepositions

Read the following sentence:

The terrified child hid underneath the table .

In this sentence, the prepositional phrase is underneath the table. The preposition underneath relates to the object that follows the preposition— the table . Adjectives may be placed between the preposition and the object in a prepositional phrase.

The terrified child hid underneath the heavy wooden table .

Some prepositional phrases can be moved to the beginning of a sentence in order to create variety in a piece of writing. Look at the following revised sentence:

Underneath the heavy wooden table , the terrified child hid.

Notice that when the prepositional phrase is moved to the beginning of the sentence, the emphasis shifts from the subject—the terrified child—to the location in which the child is hiding. Words that are placed at the beginning or end of a sentence generally receive the greatest emphasis. Take a look at the following examples. The prepositional phrase is underlined in each:

The bandaged man waited in the doctor’s office .

In the doctor’s office , the bandaged man waited.

My train leaves the station at 6:45 a.m .

At 6:45 a.m. , my train leaves the station.

Teenagers exchange drugs and money under the railway bridge .

Under the railway bridge , teenagers exchange drugs and money.

Prepositional phrases are useful in any type of writing. Take another look at Naomi’s essay on the government bailout.

Now read the revised version.

The underlined words are all prepositional phrases. Notice how they add additional information to the text and provide a sense of flow to the essay, making it less choppy and more pleasurable to read.

Unmovable Prepositional Phrases

Not all prepositional phrases can be placed at the beginning of a sentence. Read the following sentence:

I would like a chocolate sundae without whipped cream .

In this sentence, without whipped cream is the prepositional phrase. Because it describes the chocolate sundae, it cannot be moved to the beginning of the sentence. “Without whipped cream I would like a chocolate sundae” does not make as much (if any) sense. To determine whether a prepositional phrase can be moved, we must determine the meaning of the sentence.

Overuse of Prepositional Phrases

Experienced writers often include more than one prepositional phrase in a sentence; however, it is important not to overload your writing. Using too many modifiers in a paragraph may create an unintentionally comical effect as the following example shows:

The treasure lay buried under the old oak tree, behind the crumbling fifteenth-century wall, near the schoolyard, where children played merrily during their lunch hour, unaware of the riches that remained hidden beneath their feet.

A sentence is not necessarily effective just because it is long and complex. If your sentence appears cluttered with prepositional phrases, divide it into two shorter sentences. The previous sentence is far more effective when written as two simpler sentences:

The treasure lay buried under the old oak tree, behind the crumbling fifteenth-century wall. In the nearby schoolyard, children played merrily during their lunch hour, unaware of the riches that remained hidden beneath their feet.

Writing at Work

The overuse of prepositional phrases often occurs when our thoughts are jumbled and we are unsure how concepts or ideas relate to one another. If you are preparing a report or a proposal, take the time to organize your thoughts in an outline before writing a rough draft. Read the draft aloud, either to yourself or to a colleague, and identify areas that are rambling or unclear. If you notice that a particular part of your report contains several sentences over twenty words, you should double check that particular section to make certain that it is coherent and does not contain unnecessary prepositional phrases. Reading aloud sometimes helps detect unclear and wordy sentences. You can also ask a colleague to paraphrase your main points to ensure that the meaning is clear.

Starting a Sentence by Inverting Subject and Verb

As we noted earlier, most writers follow the subject-verb-object sentence structure. In an inverted sentence , the order is reversed so that the subject follows the verb. Read the following sentence pairs:

• A truck was parked in the driveway.
• Parked in the driveway was a truck.
• A copy of the file is attached.
• Attached is a copy of the file.

Notice how the second sentence in each pair places more emphasis on the subject— a truck in the first example and the file in the second. This technique is useful for drawing the reader’s attention to your primary area of focus. We can apply this method to an academic essay. Take another look at Naomi’s paragraph.

To emphasize the subject in certain sentences, Naomi can invert the traditional sentence structure. Read her revised paragraph:

Notice that in the first underlined sentence, the subject ( some economists ) is placed after the verb ( argued ). In the second underlined sentence, the subject ( the government ) is placed after the verb ( expects ).

On your own sheet of paper, rewrite the following sentences as inverted sentences.

• Teresa will never attempt to run another marathon.
• A detailed job description is enclosed with this letter.
• Bathroom facilities are across the hall to the left of the water cooler.
• The well-dressed stranger stumbled through the doorway.
• My colleagues remain unconvinced about the proposed merger.

Connecting Ideas to Increase Sentence Variety

Reviewing and rewriting the beginning of sentences is a good way of introducing sentence variety into your writing. Another useful technique is to connect two sentences using a modifier, a relative clause, or an appositive. This section examines how to connect ideas across several sentences in order to increase sentence variety and improve writing.

Joining Ideas Using an – ing Modifier

Sometimes it is possible to combine two sentences by converting one of them into a modifier using the – ing verb form— singing , dancing , swimming . A modifier is a word or phrase that qualifies the meaning of another element in the sentence. Read the following example:

Original sentences: Steve checked the computer system. He discovered a virus.

Revised sentence: Checking the computer system, Steve discovered a virus.

To connect two sentences using an – ing modifier, add – ing to one of the verbs in the sentences ( checking ) and delete the subject ( Steve ). Use a comma to separate the modifier from the subject of the sentence. It is important to make sure that the main idea in your revised sentence is contained in the main clause, not in the modifier. In this example, the main idea is that Steve discovered a virus, not that he checked the computer system.

In the following example, an – ing modifier indicates that two actions are occurring at the same time:

Noticing the police car, she shifted gears and slowed down.

This means that she slowed down at the same time she noticed the police car.

Barking loudly, the dog ran across the driveway.

This means that the dog barked as it ran across the driveway.

You can add an – ing modifier to the beginning or the end of a sentence, depending on which fits best.

Beginning: Conducting a survey among her friends , Amanda found that few were happy in their jobs.

End: Maria filed the final report, meeting her deadline .

Dangling Modifiers

A common mistake when combining sentences using the – ing verb form is to misplace the modifier so that it is not logically connected to the rest of the sentence. This creates a dangling modifier . Look at the following example:

Jogging across the parking lot, my breath grew ragged and shallow.

In this sentence, jogging across the parking lot seems to modify my breath . Since breath cannot jog, the sentence should be rewritten so that the subject is placed immediately after the modifier or added to the dangling phrase.

Jogging across the parking lot, I felt my breath grow ragged and shallow.

For more information on dangling modifiers, see Chapter 2 “Writing Basics: What Makes a Good Sentence?” .

Joining Ideas Using an – ed Modifier

Some sentences can be combined using an – ed verb form— stopped , finished , played . To use this method, one of the sentences must contain a form of be as a helping verb in addition to the – ed verb form. Take a look at the following example:

Original sentences: The Jones family was delayed by a traffic jam. They arrived several hours after the party started.

Revised sentence: Delayed by a traffic jam, the Jones family arrived several hours after the party started.

In the original version, was acts as a helping verb —it has no meaning by itself, but it serves a grammatical function by placing the main verb ( delayed ) in the perfect tense.

To connect two sentences using an – ed modifier, drop the helping verb ( was ) and the subject ( the Jones family ) from the sentence with an – ed verb form. This forms a modifying phrase ( delayed by a traffic jam ) that can be added to the beginning or end of the other sentence according to which fits best. As with the – ing modifier, be careful to place the word that the phrase modifies immediately after the phrase in order to avoid a dangling modifier.

Using – ing or – ed modifiers can help streamline your writing by drawing obvious connections between two sentences. Take a look at how Naomi might use modifiers in her paragraph.

The revised version of the essay uses the – ing modifier opting to draw a connection between the government’s decision to bail out the banks and the result of that decision—the acquisition of the mortgage-backed securities.

Joining Ideas Using a Relative Clause

Another technique that writers use to combine sentences is to join them using a relative clause. A relative clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb and describes a noun. Relative clauses function as adjectives by answering questions such as which one? or what kind? Relative clauses begin with a relative pronoun, such as who , which , where , why , or when . Read the following examples:

Original sentences: The managing director is visiting the company next week. He lives in Seattle.

Revised sentence: The managing director, who lives in Seattle, is visiting the company next week.

To connect two sentences using a relative clause, substitute the subject of one of the sentences ( he ) for a relative pronoun ( who ). This gives you a relative clause ( who lives in Seattle ) that can be placed next to the noun it describes ( the managing director ). Make sure to keep the sentence you want to emphasize as the main clause. For example, reversing the main clause and subordinate clause in the preceding sentence emphasizes where the managing director lives, not the fact that he is visiting the company.

Revised sentence: The managing director, who is visiting the company next week, lives in Seattle.

Relative clauses are a useful way of providing additional, nonessential information in a sentence. Take a look at how Naomi might incorporate relative clauses into her essay.

Notice how the underlined relative clauses can be removed from Naomi’s essay without changing the meaning of the sentence.

To check the punctuation of relative clauses, assess whether or not the clause can be taken out of the sentence without changing its meaning. If the relative clause is not essential to the meaning of the sentence, it should be placed in commas. If the relative clause is essential to the meaning of the sentence, it does not require commas around it.

Joining Ideas Using an Appositive

An appositive is a word or group of words that describes or renames a noun or pronoun. Incorporating appositives into your writing is a useful way of combining sentences that are too short and choppy. Take a look at the following example:

Original sentences: Harland Sanders began serving food for hungry travelers in 1930. He is Colonel Sanders or “the Colonel.”

Revised sentence: Harland Sanders, “the Colonel,” began serving food for hungry travelers in 1930.

In the revised sentence, “the Colonel” is an appositive because it renames Harland Sanders. To combine two sentences using an appositive, drop the subject and verb from the sentence that renames the noun and turn it into a phrase. Note that in the previous example, the appositive is positioned immediately after the noun it describes. An appositive may be placed anywhere in a sentence, but it must come directly before or after the noun to which it refers:

Appositive after noun: Scott, a poorly trained athlete, was not expected to win the race.

Appositive before noun: A poorly trained athlete, Scott was not expected to win the race.

Unlike relative clauses, appositives are always punctuated by a comma or a set commas. Take a look at the way Naomi uses appositives to include additional facts in her essay.

On your own sheet of paper, rewrite the following sentence pairs as one sentence using the techniques you have learned in this section.

• Baby sharks are called pups. Pups can be born in one of three ways.
• The Pacific Ocean is the world’s largest ocean. It extends from the Arctic in the north to the Southern Ocean in the south.
• Michael Phelps won eight gold medals in the 2008 Olympics. He is a champion swimmer.
• Ashley introduced her colleague Dan to her husband, Jim. She speculated that the two of them would have a lot in common.
• Cacao is harvested by hand. It is then sold to chocolate-processing companies at the Coffee, Sugar, and Cocoa Exchange.

In addition to varying sentence structure, consider varying the types of sentences you are using in a report or other workplace document. Most sentences are declarative, but a carefully placed question, exclamation, or command can pique colleagues’ interest, even if the subject material is fairly dry. Imagine that you are writing a budget analysis. Beginning your report with a rhetorical question, such as “Where is our money going?” or “How can we increase sales?” encourages people to continue reading to find out the answers. Although they should be used sparingly in academic and professional writing, questions or commands are effective rhetorical devices.

Key Takeaways

• Sentence variety reduces repetition in a piece of writing and adds emphasis to important points in the text.
• Sentence variety can be introduced to the beginning of sentences by starting a sentence with an adverb, starting a sentence with a prepositional phrase, or by inverting the subject and verb.
• Combine ideas, using modifiers, relative clauses, or appositives, to achieve sentence variety.

Writing for Success Copyright © 2015 by University of Minnesota is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

Member-only story

How to Improve Your Sentence Variety and Up Your Creative Writing Game

Tips and tricks for playing with your sentence subjects.

Ronni Souers

The Writing Cooperative

A lot of creative writers — even intermediate and advanced writers — struggle to create engaging sentences. Issues with variety in sentences can make writing feel dull and colorless, despite how exciting the story might be. One issue I used to struggle with immensely as a beginner-intermediate writer was the tendency to use the same subject (or some variation of that subject) over and over again, to the point of ad nauseam. Usually, this subject comprised the first-person narrator (i.e., “I”) or the main character and their pronouns (related to readers via third-person narrator). I would still use a variety of introductory elements in my sentences, but even with their inclusion, my writing still felt…lacking.

Over time, I learned how to play with my sentence subjects to add sentence variety and liven up my prose. I’d love to share the tricks I use.

Vary sentence subjects.

As mentioned up above, many of my sentences used to begin with the same subject, which felt monotonous and, consequently, boring.

Here are three ways I’ve learned to vary my sentence subjects:

Make another noun in the…

Written by Ronni Souers

Recovering educator turned freelancer.

Text to speech

Daily Writing Tips

10 varieties of syntax to improve your writing.

English is a remarkably flexible language in terms of syntax, because a simple statement can be rendered in so many ways. Take, for example, the statement “I went for a walk,” and consider all the ways you can attach the additional information included in the statement “I saw a dinosaur.” Here are just some of the most basic of many variations in syntactical organization:

1. Write the statements as consecutive sentences : “I went for a walk. I saw a dinosaur.”

2. Add the second statement to the first as a dependent clause : “I went for a walk and saw a dinosaur.” (The second statement does not stand on its own.)

3. Add the second statement to the first as an independent clause : “I went for a walk, and I saw a dinosaur.” (The second statement stands on its own, which means it can be separated into two sentences, as in the first example.)

4. Begin the sentence with a dependent marker that turns the initial statement into a modifying phrase that expands on the second statement : “While I was walking, I saw a dinosaur.”

5. Begin with the second statement and reword the first statement as a modifying phrase that follows it : “I saw a dinosaur on my walk this morning.”

6. Insert a nonessential phrase, which must be bracketed by commas, one of two ways : Locate the phrase between a pair of independent clauses (but after the coordinating conjunction), each consisting of one of the two statements: “I went for a walk and, to my surprise, I saw a dinosaur.” (Notice that “to my surprise,” which can be omitted without altering the sentence’s meaning, modifies the second statement and so must follow and; note, too, that the comma preceding the coordinating conjunction can be omitted.)

Or, separate two statements with a nonessential phrase inserted before the coordinating conjunction: “I went for a walk, following my usual route, and I saw a dinosaur.” (Notice that “following my usual route,” which also does not alter the sentence’s meaning if it is omitted, modifies the first statement and so must precede and.)

7. Emphasize a nonessential phrase by bracketing it with em dashes to indicate an interruption of thought : “I went for a walk and — no, I was not hallucinating — I saw a dinosaur.” (Alternatively, to deemphasize the phrase, or for humorous effect, enclose it in parentheses.)

8. Insert an essential clause — one whose absence would alter the meaning the sentence — between two statements : “I went for a walk that followed my usual route and saw a dinosaur.”

9. Attach a variation of the second statement to the first, preceded by a semicolon when the second statement is an independent clause that is nevertheless closely associated with the first one : “I went for a walk; a dinosaur was grazing along my route.”

10. Separate two statements with a semicolon when the second statement is preceded by an adverb or an adverbial phrase, which requires a subsequent comma : “I went for a walk; unexpectedly, I saw a dinosaur along the way.”

It is this rich variety of word and phrase order and variation in punctuation that makes prose — fiction or nonfiction — readable. As you review your writing, make sure that you vary sentence structure among these and other constructions to create a pleasant reading experience devoid of lockstep syntax — questionable enough for a Dick-and-Jane reading level, and deadly for more sophisticated readers.

Stop making those embarrassing mistakes! Subscribe to Daily Writing Tips today!

You will improve your English in only 5 minutes per day, guaranteed!

Each newsletter contains a writing tip, word of the day, and exercise!

You'll also get three bonus ebooks completely free!

15 thoughts on “10 Varieties of Syntax to Improve Your Writing”

I think it’s the use of a number of these syntactic methods that helps bring your writing alive. If you look at your favourite authors, you’ll also see that different styles produce different effects at various points in a story. I once tried to read The Cold Six Thousand by James Ellroy and had to give up. For some reason, in that book, he chose to use a style that I felt, used predominantly the first style (No 1 above) you described, which made the book unreadable for me. Yet, for others, it’s a classic.

These are all tricks I’ve learned over the last five years of writing a PhD thesis and they’re a great way to help people (like thesis advisors) who’ve made a commitment to reading upwards of 15,000 words in a sitting. Great post.

Also, one of the worst writing habits I had coming into the thesis ordeal was writing sentences with so many dependent clauses they were practically impenetrable; tips 9 & 10 is a great way to wrestle such habits under control. Semicolons can be great for picking up extraneous clauses and coordinating the rest in a much smoother, more accessible way.

You have mentioned a ‘semicolon’ in examples 9 & 10. Can a colon be used instead?

I loved the sixth point. Nice article 🙂

Re #2: “And saw a dinosaur” is not a clause. A clause contains a subject and a verb. “I went for a walk and saw a dinosaur” is a simple sentence with a compound predicate (verb plus completer).

Regarding #9, I’d always heard that semicolons should only be used to separate two sentences that have the same subject. Is this no longer a rule?

It would be fun to use this article as the basis for a self-edit. While it certainly doesn’t make sense to alter the sentence structure arbitrarily, writing that sounds “dead” could be livened up easily this way.

One function of a colon is to signal an explanation or expansion. But the sighting of a dinosaur on one’s walk is a subsequent, subordinate event as a result of going on the walk, not an explanation of the walk. If you wrote, “I went on a walk, because I wanted to see a dinosaur,” however, you could revise it to “I went on a walk: I wanted to see a dinosaur,” because “I wanted to see a dinosaur” explains the purpose of the walk.

I’ve never heard of a semicolon being limited to this function. This post describes the uses of the semicolon.

……or add a little drama: “If I had not gone for a walk that morning, I would never have seen the dinosaur.” The possibilities are endless.

Thank you for this useful post.

I recently began taking my writing technique more seriously, and this post addressed one of my struggles. I’m getting bogged down in my head with all of the syntactic (is that the right form?) options available. I wasn’t aware of what my brain was attempting.

Perhaps, now that I’m cognizant of what it is I’m trying to do, I won’t get so frustrated.

I suppose this information is rudimentary, and those who write well may find my predicament silly. But it’s been difficult for me, and if anyone has any advice on breaking through it, I’m willing to listen.

its a nice thing for the people like me ,who want to improve our speaking as well as writing.

actually I was in search of the right place from where I can get the perfect guidance for language improvement , I think now I got the perfect place

thanks a lot.

Leave a Comment

• Link to facebook
• Link to linkedin
• Link to twitter
• Link to youtube
• Writing Tips

How Word Variation Could Improve Your Academic Writing (And 5 Handy Examples)

• 3-minute read
• 25th December 2015

While it’s important to use consistent terminology in academic writing , this applies primarily to technical terms and concepts central to your argument. When it comes to the rest of your paper, varying the language can make it much more engaging and easier to read .

What words should you vary? This depends very much on the individual, but the essence is to avoid frequent repetition of certain basic terms. This doesn’t mean short words like “the”, “a” or “and”, which everyone will use regularly in their writing, but it might include words like “interesting”, “because”, “including”, “said” and “important”.

Alternatives for these terms are presented below, but you might also want to try a thesaurus for other ideas. Just remember to check the meaning of words you find in a thesaurus before using them, as sometimes there can be subtle differences.

1.    Variations on ‘Interesting’

The word “interesting” is often used to introduce a point as worthy of attention (e.g., “It is interesting to note that…”). Ironically, overusing “interesting” is very uninteresting indeed, so you might want to try these instead:

• Noteworthy/notable (e.g., “One noteworthy claim…”)
• Compelling (e.g., “One theory seems particularly compelling…”)
• Fascinating (e.g., “The Ancient Greeks were a fascinating people”)

2.     Because

The word “because” is used when explaining the reasons behind something (e.g., “The results were this way because…”). As such, it’s often used in academic writing, so you may sometimes need to limit repetition:

Find this useful?

Subscribe to our newsletter and get writing tips from our editors straight to your inbox.

• Since (e.g., “Since the pilot experiment failed, we had to start again.”)
• Due to (e.g., “The failure was due to several oversights.”)
• As a result (e.g., “As a result of these omissions, the results are unreliable.”)

3.     Including/Includes

The term “including” is most commonly used to introduce examples of something just mentioned, including in this sentence you’re reading right now. See what we did there? It can also be used to describe something contained within a whole (e.g., “It will take a full week, including Sunday.”)

If you’re using “includes” a lot in a paper, you might want to consider these variations:

• Such as (e.g., “I collect tools, such as hammers and tongs.”)
• Like (e.g., “I eat fruit, like apples and pears.”)
• Incorporates (e.g., “The design incorporates many useful features.”)

4.     Said

The word “said” is most overused when quoting sources (e.g., “Costello said that ‘there’s nothing underhand that she won’t understand’”). Your options here include:

• Claimed (e.g., “Holland claimed…”)
• Argued (e.g., “Weller argued…”)
• Stated (e.g., “Suggs stated…”)

5.     Important

The term “important” is used to emphasize the significance or value of something, so overusing it can undermine its impact. Substitutes include:

• Significant (e.g., “The most significant finding…”)
• Vital (e.g., “It is vital to remember that…”)
• Crucial (e.g., “Addressing this problem is crucial in order to…”)

Share this article:

Post A New Comment

Got content that needs a quick turnaround? Let us polish your work. Explore our editorial business services.

5-minute read

Free Email Newsletter Template (2024)

Promoting a brand means sharing valuable insights to connect more deeply with your audience, and...

6-minute read

How to Write a Nonprofit Grant Proposal

If you’re seeking funding to support your charitable endeavors as a nonprofit organization, you’ll need...

9-minute read

How to Use Infographics to Boost Your Presentation

Is your content getting noticed? Capturing and maintaining an audience’s attention is a challenge when...

8-minute read

Why Interactive PDFs Are Better for Engagement

Are you looking to enhance engagement and captivate your audience through your professional documents? Interactive...

7-minute read

Seven Key Strategies for Voice Search Optimization

Voice search optimization is rapidly shaping the digital landscape, requiring content professionals to adapt their...

4-minute read

Five Creative Ways to Showcase Your Digital Portfolio

Are you a creative freelancer looking to make a lasting impression on potential clients or...

Make sure your writing is the best it can be with our expert English proofreading and editing.

What Is Creative Writing? Types, Techniques, and Tips

by Kaelyn Barron | 5 comments

Even if you’re not a big reader of fiction, you’ve more than likely encountered creative writing—or at least, the outcomes of creative writing—at some point. In fact, you can thank creative writing for your favorite films, songs, musicals, and much more.

But what exactly makes writing “creative?”

Simply put, creative writing is any writing that falls outside of technical, journalistic, or academic writing.

You can think of it as classic storytelling. It can be written with a number of intentions: to entertain us, comfort us, or teach us a lesson; most importantly, good creative writing speaks to our shared human experience. It shouldn’t just tell us something—it should make us feel something new.

Creative Writing: An Overview

We’re all familiar with school-required “creative writing exercises.” Maybe you had a traumatizing experience when your eighth grade teacher forced you to write a story and read it aloud for the class (no? just me?).

Or maybe you think creative writing is reserved for the artsy free spirits who churn out novels in coffee shops or on sunny farms in Tuscany.

In reality, creative writing is much more than something for your great aunt to scoff at when discussing your major at Thanksgiving dinner.

In this post, we’ll break down creative writing and explain everything you need to know, including:

• Types and examples • Techniques • Who should practice creative writing? • Creative writing exercises to get started

Types of Creative Writing

Examples of creative writing can be found pretty much everywhere. Some forms that you’re probably familiar with and already enjoy include:

• Fiction (of every genre, from sci-fi to historical dramas to romances ) • Film and television scripts • Songs • Poetry • Plays • Vignettes

But creative writing doesn’t have to be limited to fictitious content. It can also include:

• Personal essays • Memoirs • Journals and diaries • Letters

As we can see from this list, some works of nonfiction can also constitute creative writing. After all, many books and films tell stories of real people and real events.

Take, for example, the 2010 film The King’s Speech . The film tells the story of real people and real events, but the script can be considered creative writing as much as the script for Jurassic Park, because it charges historical events with emotion and makes the audience feel invested in the characters.

Writing about your own life is no different. Journals and diaries—when they contain personal thoughts, experiences, or emotions—can also constitute creative writing. Even letters can be included, when they do more than stating facts (not just “today I went to the store” or “today it rained.”)

Creative writing doesn’t require you to make up names or inject unicorns into your manuscript. It just requires a bit of storytelling through more imaginative techniques.

Techniques Used in Creative Writing

You’ll want to make your story one that resonates with people, since creative writing is ultimately telling stories about the human experience. To achieve this, you can apply some of these techniques and literary devices:

Including conversations between characters can help bring them to life, while also moving the plot along without relying solely on the narrator.

This was a favorite technique of Ernest Hemingway. Famous for his simple, straightforward style, he let his characters do most of the talking, which also helped to make them more accessible and relatable.

One great example of character development through dialogue can be found in Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice :

“A single man of large fortune; four or five thousand a year. What a fine thing for our girls!”

“How so? How can it affect them?”

“My dear Mr. Bennet,” replied his wife, “how can you be so tiresome! You must know that I am thinking of his marrying one of them.”

“Is that his design in settling here?”

“Design! Nonsense, how can you talk so! But it is very likely that he may  fall in love with one of them, and therefore you must visit him as soon as he comes.”

Without Austen telling us anything directly, we as readers can get a feel for Mr. and Mrs. Bennet, their relationship, and what they each prioritize.

Good dialogue should sound realistic, but also carry a purpose so that the story can progress in a natural way.

Metaphors and similes

Alternatively, writers can choose to pack their prose with imaginative language, offering the reader vivid descriptions to evoke emotion. This is typical in many forms of creative writing, and it is often achieved through literary devices, like similes and metaphors.

For example, in “A Red, Red Rose,” Robert Burns writes:

“O my Love is like a red, red rose That’s newly sprung in June; O my Love is like the melody That’s sweetly played in tune.”

Similes create images for the reader by using comparisons, rather than simple adjectives. (What kind of poem would the example above be if Burns just told us his love is “beautiful”?)

While similes can help us to imagine a scene more vividly, they can also be open to interpretation. Because similes rely on association, one word might carry different connotations for different readers (this may very well be the author’s intention).

Metaphors, instead, draw parallels and can take up a few lines, like this famous excerpt from Romeo and Juliet :

“But soft, what light through yonder window breaks? It is the east, and Juliet is the sun!”

Or sometimes, metaphors can be recurring elements in a text, like in Paulo Coelho’s The Alchemist , where the desert setting serves as a metaphor for life itself.

Good metaphors can serve as a shortcut to understanding a text because they can convey something complex in terms that are more concise, yet universal. For this reason, metaphors can add extra depth to your story.

Point of view

Deciding which point of view you want to tell your story from is an essential step because it will determine the story’s voice.

Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby , for example, is written in the first-person limited perspective—but imagine how different the story would be if Daisy were narrating instead of Nick! Changing the point of view can change the entire story.

Anecdotes are like small stories within the big story. When used in creative writing, they offer readers a chance to learn more about a character without simply stating it directly. They can be used to evoke empathy, to entertain, to teach a lesson, or simply to reveal other dimensions of a character.

We can turn to Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein for one such example:

“Justine, you may remember, was a great favorite of yours; and I recollect you once remarked, that if you were in an ill-humor, one glance from Justine could dissipate it, for the same reason that Ariosto gives concerning the beauty of Angelica—she looked so frank-hearted and happy. My aunt conceived a great attachment for her, by which she was induced to give her an education superior to that which she had first intended.”

This anecdote, delivered by Elizabeth to Victor Frankenstein, provides background for Justine’s character and reveals the history between the characters’ families. By testifying to Justine’s “frank-hearted and happy” nature, readers are led to sympathize with the character even more, especially in light of her tragic fate (she confesses to a crime she did not commit and is promptly executed).

Making proper use of the right techniques can make any writing better, but it’s especially important in creative writing if you want a well-developed story that resonates with readers and doesn’t feel forced.

Who Should Practice Creative Writing?

Now that we’ve gone over what exactly creative writing is and the techniques used to compose it, you might be wondering what exactly you can do with this information.

Because creative writing isn’t just for English majors and best-selling authors. We all have stories to tell, and even if you never show your work to anyone, practicing creative writing can be beneficial to just about everyone.

Aside from proven therapeutic benefits , creative writing exercises can help to:

Build your imagination and creativity: By stimulating the parts of your brain responsible for creativity, you’ll train your mind to think “outside the box” to find new, innovative solutions.

Organize your thoughts: Developing a plot requires the ability to think logically, since you’ll want to make the underlying point clear. This kind of thinking can of course be helpful in the workplace and many other parts of your life.

Grow your confidence: Putting your thoughts down on paper takes guts. Expressing yourself through writing and seeing your ideas translated to words can help build self-confidence.

Improve your communication skills : By refining your writing skills, you’ll be able to communicate more effectively, both in speech and on paper.

Give your mind a break: Like reading, creative writing offers the perfect escape from everyday life. You’re in complete control of everything that happens, so let yourself go and see the wonderful things your mind builds when you set it free.

How Can You Get Started?

If you’re new to creative writing, there are a number of ways to get started. Keeping a diary to write down your thoughts and ideas can be extremely helpful. Or, check out our many great writing prompts to get your creativity flowing!

What do you love to write about? Feel free to share with us in the comments below!

If you enjoyed this post, you might also like:

• 70 Creative Writing Prompts to Inspire You to Write
• 10 Creative Writing Exercises for Beginners and Writers
• How Writing Prompts Can Boost Your Creative Writing Skills
• Fast and Loose: 3 Ways Freewriting Will Upgrade Your Creative Career

As a blog writer for TCK Publishing, Kaelyn loves crafting fun and helpful content for writers, readers, and creative minds alike. She has a degree in International Affairs with a minor in Italian Studies, but her true passion has always been writing. Working remotely allows her to do even more of the things she loves, like traveling, cooking, and spending time with her family.

I see during my searches of creating writing that the term, snippet is not used. Why is this, as it is a very entertaining concept, as I enclose an example.

The small boy asks his grandpa, “Grand daddy, what will you do if you ever catch the last beaver in th e world?”

“Well son, that will be the saddest day that I ever could imagine.”

“You know son, that almost happened a couple hundred years or so ago. Money was hard to come by and rich people over in Europe wanted all the beaver they could buy from men that were willing to risk their lives in the new America that had a seemingly endless supply of the rich furred animals.”

The old man said, “the only thing that stopped the beaver from being totally wiped out was the silk worm.”

That didn’t stop the boy from his original line of questions about beavers, he could care less about any worms. After all he was a trapper, in his own mind.

The boy, stopped his Grandpa again, in the manner that young kids do, that are impatient for another answer. “Granddaddy, how long have you been trapping beavers?”

“Well son, let me see; I started just about the time I was your age I think.”

“How many have you caught,” came next.

“There’s no telling, maybe a truck load, maybe two.”

The boys next words took the old trapper back a step or two when the boy said, “Granddaddy do we have to catch them all, or can we leave me a few so I can take my son, someday, and show and tell him what you’ve taught me.”

Interesting

Thanks, hope you enjoyed the post!

Great article. I appreciate reading even more now. Understanding these things has opened a new door for me. I mostly wrote for my own entertainment, but what I have learned here, I am inspired to give it a try on a bigger scale.

Thank you for the inspiration.

You’re very welcome Cindy, and thank you for the kind words! I’m so glad you enjoyed the article :) Happy writing!

Learn More About

• Fiction (223)
• Nonfiction (71)
• Blogging (47)
• Book Promotion (29)
• How to Get Reviews (9)
• Audiobooks (17)
• Book Design (11)
• Ebook Publishing (13)
• Hybrid Publishing (8)
• Print Publishing (9)
• Self Publishing (70)
• Traditional Publishing (53)
• How to Find an Editor (11)
• Fitness (4)
• Mindfulness and Meditation (7)
• Miscellaneous (119)
• New Releases (17)
• Career Development (75)
• Online Courses (46)
• Productivity (45)
• Personal Finance (21)
• Podcast (179)
• Poetry Awards Contest (3)
• Publishing News (8)
• Readers Choice Awards (5)
• Reading Tips (145)
• Software (18)
• Technology (18)
• Contests (4)
• Grammar (64)
• Word Choice (68)
• Writing a Book (68)
• Writing Fiction (195)
• Writing Nonfiction (83)

Stack Exchange Network

Stack Exchange network consists of 183 Q&A communities including Stack Overflow , the largest, most trusted online community for developers to learn, share their knowledge, and build their careers.

Q&A for work

Connect and share knowledge within a single location that is structured and easy to search.

"Variation" and "symmetry" in a sentence

I always find myself wondering whether to add add "variation" or "symmetry" to a sentence. Most of the time I can't make out my mind.

Few examples:

With the moon still illuminating my way, I entered the trail, which consisted of a narrow concrete path surrounded by bamboo and banana plants .

Meaning aside, does it sound better if I balance the two words between "and"? By making them both adj + noun ?

With the moon still illuminating my way, I entered the trail, which consisted of a narrow concrete path surrounded by tall bamboo and banana plants .

Yet there were things she had never seen before like three-wheeled bikes and elephants.

Does it sound better as:

Yet there were things she had never seen before like three-wheeled bikes and Asian elephants.

• creative-writing

3 Answers 3

Factors you're playing with. First I'll call out a number of factors that you're playing with in addition to variety and symmetry:

• Rhythm. Adding or omitting "tall" in the first example shifts the rhythm of the sentence.
• Sonority (lyrically?). Adding or omitting "Asian" in your second example changes the way the sentence flows off the tongue. It feels like of slurry to me. Something about all of the a's and n's in a row.
• Precision. Each time you add a modifier, you make the image more precise. But it may also make a construction more ambiguous. Does "tall" modify banana plants, or only bamboo?
• Wordiness. Each time you add a modifier, you make the sentence wordier.

Additional factors to play with. A few other factors that remain the same throughout your examples, but which you can also play with:

• Word choice. A modifier+noun pair compared with a more precise noun.
• Word order. If you shift "tall bamboo" to the end, it's clear that "tall" modifies only bamboo.
• What goes at the end of a sentence. I noticed that both of your examples are at the ends of sentences. The end of a sentence is a special place. That's a great place to put new or surprising or powerful ideas.
• List rhythm and ordering. It is often easier for readers to parse a list if the shorter items appear toward the beginning of the list, and the longer items appear toward the end. Consider "elephants and three-wheeled bikes." (I like elephants at the end here. For me, the surprise of elephants outweighs the length thing.)
• Sentence and paragraph construction. Left as an exercise for the reader.

These factors all bump into each other, contradict each other, support each other. Fiddling with one also affects the others.

Voice is kinda the sum of your choices about these things. The way you choose becomes your unique voice.

As others have mentioned, this is a matter of taste. Your question tells me that you care about this, and that the distinctions you're struggling with are subtle and interesting.

I'm confident that you'll do just fine, whatever you choose.

This is a matter of style. If you can find a noun that evokes a precise image without using an adjective, so much the better. For example, a tricycle is a "three-wheeled bike" and so it is a noun that contains its own descriptor.

As for the first example, my impression is that you didn't think too much about the beginning, which needs work, and are saving all your worry for what amounts to a false dilemma at the end. I would suggest you don't let yourself get locked into one way of thinking about a scene. Try alternate ways of being evocative. You may be struggling with the last part of the sentence because it's the first part that isn't carrying enough freight. Consider:

The moonlight carved a narrow canyon between cliffs of bamboo and banana, its walls closing in from both sides as I pushed my way along the trail.

There are of course many different ways to set this scene. But this one makes the moonlight the agent of a claustrophobic, faintly menacing presence. Cliffs are tall, so you don't have to use that adjective to describe the plants. Darkness, tallness, narrowness — all are present, but the experience of them comes alive in a way they do not when you merely trot out a string of facts. It is the age-old difference between showing and telling.

The difference is whether there is a notable difference.

When you say elephant, I think of the big gray ones, but an Asian elephant is smaller and has shorter tusks. Now that makes a considerable difference to the story, in terms of the readers' visualization of the scene.

But the tall bamboos is merely a descriptor. Bamboo is naturally tall, so it doesn't really make a huge difference if you specify the adjective.

But I would say that its largely a matter of creative writing style, with a few differences based on where adjectives are actually part of a Proper noun.

Your Answer

Reminder: Answers generated by artificial intelligence tools are not allowed on Writing Stack Exchange. Learn more

Sign up or log in

Post as a guest.

Required, but never shown

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy .

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged creative-writing or ask your own question .

• Featured on Meta
• Bringing clarity to status tag usage on meta sites
• We've made changes to our Terms of Service & Privacy Policy - July 2024
• Announcing a change to the data-dump process

Hot Network Questions

• Creating a deadly "minimum altitude limit" in an airship setting
• Using 尊敬語 and 謙譲語 without 丁寧語?
• Adverb for Lore?
• Clash between package -- nomencl and possibly polyglossia
• 'best poster' and 'best talk' prizes - can we do better determining winners?
• Regression with a constant sharing a coefficient with an independent variable
• Is it possible to draw arrows and nodes with the same command?
• VerificationTest leaks message?
• White to play and mate in 3 moves..what are the moves?
• Is there a good explanation for the existence of the C19 globular cluster with its very low metallicity?
• Can science inform philosophy?
• Are "lie low" and "keep a low profile" interchangeable?
• Does the Telephone Consumer Protection Act apply to iMessages?
• Can data be preprocessed when using EdDSA with SHAKE?
• Is it possible to create your own toy DNS root zone?
• Rounding vertices of polygon to fixed number of decimal places in QGIS
• Does processed or decrypted evidence pay out more than regular evidence?
• How does DS18B20 temperature sensor get the temperature?
• If a group has exactly two elements of the same order, the order is only 3, 4, or 6
• How did this zucchini plant cling to the zip tie?
• I don’t know what to buy!
• Who is affected by Obscured areas?
• Finite loop runs infinitely
• LoginForm submission which sends sign in link to email and then sets value in localStorage

Achieving Word Variation: Adding Flair to Your Text

Table: Evaluating Word Variation

Achieving Word Variation: Adding Flair to Your Text with rich vocabulary and diverse synonyms: Read our Free Guide Here.

Introduction Word variation is an important tool for writers to use when crafting their text. It adds flair and interest to the writing, and can help to make the text more engaging and enjoyable to read. Word variation can be achieved by using synonyms, antonyms, and other related words. This article will discuss how to achieve word variation in your writing, and provide some tips and tricks to help you get started. For more information on word variation.

What is Word Variation?

Word variation is the use of different words to express the same idea. It is a way of adding interest and variety to your writing, and can help to make it more engaging and enjoyable to read. Word variation can be achieved by using synonyms, antonyms, and other related words.

Why is Word Variation Important?

Variation is important because it helps to make your writing more interesting and engaging. It also helps to make your writing more concise and clear, as it prevents you from repeating the same words over and over again. Additionally, variation can help to make your writing more vivid and descriptive, as it allows you to use more precise and descriptive words.

How to Achieve Variation There are several ways to achieve variation in your writing. The most common way is to use synonyms, which are words that have the same or similar meanings. For example, if you wanted to use the word “happy”, you could also use the words “joyful”, “elated”, or “thrilled”. Another way to achieve word variation is to use antonyms, which are words that have opposite meanings. For example, if you wanted to use the word “happy”, you could also use the words “sad”, “unhappy”, or “miserable”. Additionally, you can use related words to achieve variation. For example, if you wanted to use the word “happy”, you could also use the words “content”, “pleased”, or “satisfied”.

Tips and Tricks for Achieving Variation One of the best tips for achieving word variation is to use a thesaurus. A thesaurus is a book or online resource that lists synonyms and antonyms for words. This can be a great way to find new words to use in your writing. Additionally, you can use a dictionary to look up the definitions of words and find related words that you can use.

What is word variation in writing?

Word variation, also known as lexical diversity, refers to the use of different words or synonyms to convey meaning effectively in writing.

Why is variation important in writing?

Word variation enhances readability and engagement, preventing repetitive or monotonous language. It also demonstrates a rich vocabulary.

How can I improve variation in my writing?

Use a thesaurus, pay attention to context, and vary word choices while ensuring they are appropriate for the content.

Are there tools to help with variation?

Yes, tools like Grammarly and ProWritingAid offer suggestions for word variation and synonyms.

What are some examples of variation techniques?

Techniques include using synonyms, antonyms, hyperbole, metaphors, similes, and idiomatic expressions.

How does  variation affect SEO in content writing?

Word variation can improve SEO by reducing keyword stuffing and providing diverse keyword options.

Is there a recommended variation ratio in writing?

While there’s no strict ratio, maintaining variety throughout a piece is essential.

Can variation be overdone?

Yes, excessive variation can lead to confusion. Balance is key.

Are there differences in variation between creative and technical writing?

Creative writing often allows more freedom in word choice, while technical writing prioritizes clarity and precision.

How can I avoid redundancy in word choice?

Review your writing for repetitive words or phrases and replace them with synonyms or rephrase sentences.

What are some common mistakes to avoid in variation?

Avoid using obscure words that may confuse readers or words that don’t fit the context.

How can I assess my writing’s variation?

Tools like Text Analyzer or Natural Language Processing (NLP) can analyze and provide feedback on word diversity.

Are there cultural considerations for variation?

Yes, cultural contexts may influence word choices and idiomatic expressions.

How can I enhance variation in academic writing?

Use discipline-specific terminology when appropriate and avoid overusing jargon.

What is the impact of variation on storytelling?

Word variation enriches storytelling by creating vivid imagery and maintaining reader interest.

How can I practice variation in my writing?

Write regularly, read diverse materials, and experiment with different words and phrases.

What is the role of context in variation?

Context determines whether a word is appropriate, so consider the context when varying words.

How does variation contribute to effective communication?

Word variation prevents monotony, keeps readers engaged, and helps convey ideas more effectively.

Are there any online courses on improving variation?

Platforms like Coursera and edX offer courses on writing and vocabulary enhancement.

Can you recommend reputable sources on variation?

• Merriam-Webster Thesaurus
• Cambridge English Dictionary
• Grammarly Blog

Read more about word variation

Writing Tips & Techniques

Looking for the place where this picture was taken? Any Feedback or Question? Comment on our instagram and we will reply. Tell us what you want to see next.

You may also like

Writing for the right context: Designing the Future

• December 17, 2023

Z in Cursive Writing: Guide

• October 1, 2023

Avoiding Inappropriate Colloquialisms in 5 Steps

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Name  *

Email  *

Add Comment  *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Post Comment

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to footer

Enchanting Marketing

Writing advice for small business

How to Vary Sentence Length So You Can Shine a Spotlight on Your Key Message

by Henneke | 46 enchanting opinions, add yours? :)

Reading would be a pleasure, right?

And the key message might linger in your mind—just like the chorus of that song.

Can it be done?

Writing has rhythm, too

Rhythm is one of the most underappreciated aspects of writing.

Yet, a good rhythm not only makes the reading experience more pleasurable; it can help put a spotlight on your key points, too.

This works for any type of writing, whether you’re writing a novel or a memoir, a sales page or an email.

And the key to creating such a pleasant rhythm?

Vary the length of your sentences.

I’ve always found this aspect of writing hard to explain. That’s until I spotted a perfect example …

How to vary sentence length

The Kitchen Congregation is a lovely food memoir written by Nora Seton (thank you to reader Paul Couchman for the recommendation).

Here’s how Seton describes her mother:

She was a good cook. People remember that about her. Oh yes, yes, she wrote several novels, received critical acclaim, battled cancer, raised five children. But she was a good cook. She was a good cook not because the feeding of a family of seven, plus routine entertaining, and the importation of odd sojourners into our house for months at a time beat the basics into her. She thought about it. She cared.

Why is it so good?

First, because the rhythm of the writing is pleasant. Have you tried reading it aloud?

When you read the paragraph aloud, you may notice that the long sentences speed up the reading; it’s like you’re accelerating towards the next full stop. In contrast, the short sentences slow you down a little. Because each full stop makes you pause.

If you think of it as a road journey, the long sentences are the stretches of highway where you can step on the pedal, make good progress, and only occasionally have to slow down before you can overtake a truck.

Short sentences are more like city driving. First, red traffic lights make you stop. Then a couple of kids are crossing the road. So, you have to stop again. You know how it goes.

Good writing has a mix of smooth highway driving and stop-start city driving. This variation in driving experience keeps readers interested.

But there’s more …

Nora Seton’s paragraph showcases perfectly Roy Peter Clark’s advice :

Long sentences take readers on a journey. Short ones tell the gospel truth.

Shall we see how that works?

The two long sentences in Seton’s paragraph take you on a journey:

Do you notice how each of these two sentences tells a story? That’s why they take you on a journey.

And the short sentences put the spotlight on the gospel truth:

The short sentences state the truth, without meandering into a story. These sentences simply tell you: This is how it was.

Note how the second short sentence— But she was a good cook —repeats the first. This repetition gives extra stress to the key message: She’s a good cook!

Rhythm is not just for creative writers. Any type of writing has a rhythm. Even sales copy …

The rhythm of Apple’s copy

Apple’s copywriters understand the power of rhythm, too.

On the sales pages of the iPhone 13 Pro , they explain how they developed the Neural Engine so you can make Hollywood-like movies with your iPhone:

We also trained the Neural Engine to work like the experts. It makes on-the-fly decisions about what should be in focus, and it applies smooth focus transitions when that changes. If you want creative control, you can always hop in the director’s chair and rack focus manually, either when you shoot or in the edit. It’s so computationally intense, we needed a chip that could handle the workload. Enter A15 Bionic. The sheer computational power needed to run the machine learning algorithms, render autofocus changes, support manual focus changes and grade each frame in Dolby Vision — all in real time — is astounding. It’s like having Hollywood in your pocket.

The rhythm is perhaps not as smooth as Seton’s writing but the long sentences follow the same principle of taking readers on a journey:

Each long sentence communicates a lot of information helping you picture what it’s like shooting a movie with your iPhone. Can you imagine hopping in the director’s chair?

The key points are communicated in the shorter sentences:

The two short-ish sentences summarize what’s most important:

• The feature is the A15 Bionic.
• Its benefit is having Hollywood in your pocket.

That message is even easier to remember because of the strong imagery of Hollywood in your pocket.

3 guidelines for varying sentence length

Just like in music, there’s not just one pattern of sentence length that’s best. You can jig or jive, you can sprint or saunter, you can rap or rock.

Yet, there are 3 useful guidelines to remember while playing with rhythm:

• Reading becomes monotonous when all sentences are similar in length. To create a pleasant reading experience, vary the length of your sentences.
• Short sentences make readers pause. So, use short sentences to shine a spotlight on your key points.
• Long sentences take readers on a journey and speed up the reading experience.

Below follows a visual representation of the rhythm of Seton’s paragraph. The short sentences are highlighted in orange; the long sentences are grey; the medium sentence is without highlight:

How to put music into your writing

The best way to develop a sense for rhythm is to read good writing aloud and pay attention to the variation in sentence length.

Next, start playing with your own writing.

Try writing a couple of longer sentences. Or chop a longer sentence up into shorter ones.

Then evaluate: How does the rhythm change? Is the spotlight on a key point?

The rhythm of your sentences helps shape your voice .

So, don’t worry about creating a perfect rhythm.

Happy writing!

Recommended reading on rhythm and varying sentence length:

Enjoyed this get my fortnightly newsletter in your inbox > > >, get my best writing tips in your inbox ....

Success! Now check your email to confirm your subscription.

There was an error submitting your subscription. Please try again.

Reader Interactions

Leave a comment and join the conversation cancel reply.

May 10, 2024 at 10:55 am

This is great. I haven’t come across explanations like this since I have started my research on writing. Today, I needed a detailed explanation on the use of rhythm, and here I come. My goodness! It’s beyond my expectations and I felt like giving a warm hug to the writer while reading through.

Thank you so much for putting this out here.

I will be using it to explain how public speakers can strategically win their audience’s attention.

May 10, 2024 at 1:43 pm

Thanks so much, Jumoke. I’m glad you found this useful. Your hug is appreciated!

February 15, 2022 at 11:18 am

thank you very much. I’m learning english and I learn reading with you. It’s a very pleasure to read your writing. It’s always clear and imaged. I’m a piano teacher and the rythm speaks to me. Thank you so much!

February 15, 2022 at 11:22 am

Aww, what a lovely compliment. Thank you, Alexandra!

January 31, 2022 at 8:14 am

Hi Henneke,

It was an amazing share! I have been trying to write as well, and I am progressing, but I struggle with engagement. Your tips about varying sentence structure to highlight key messages will be very valuable for me. I think it will boost the rhythm of writing. I think I will try reading them out loud to gain a better understanding of the structure and modify it accordingly. Thanks a lot for sharing your tips, it was very helpful.

January 31, 2022 at 9:06 pm

I’m glad you found it helpful, John. Happy writing!

January 27, 2022 at 4:36 pm

I definitely understand what you mean by the rhythm of writing Henneke. When in the flow the tempo carries me through my work. I need to write slowly but quickly enough to find the right sentence length from sentence to sentence. This feels tough to put into words but you did a great job explaining the concept within this post.

January 27, 2022 at 9:19 pm

Yes, when you’re in a flow, there’s often a natural rhythm. Still, I often fine-tune the rhythm when editing.

January 27, 2022 at 10:41 am

Henneke your blogs are always so informative I just love them.

Thank you, Jake 🙂

January 27, 2022 at 3:24 am

Brilliant, as usual, young lady!

January 27, 2022 at 9:29 am

Thanks so much, Jim. How lovely to be called a young lady! 🙂

January 26, 2022 at 1:30 am

Such a gem. Seton’s rhythm is exceptional, but how you work that same rhythm into your explanation makes it all that clear to understand and appreciate. A perfect gem.

January 26, 2022 at 11:07 am

Thank you for your lovely compliment, Michael. It was fun to write this post. 🙂

January 25, 2022 at 11:24 pm

By the way, Happy New Year Mam Henneke.

A piece of golden advice, one that would create wonders about my own brand of writing. For years, I have been struggling with how to write content that really matters. Fortunately for me, you have been there to provide exceptional and truly practical advice-priceless gems; the way I see. So again, thank you and more power.

January 26, 2022 at 11:06 am

Happy New Year to you, too, Daniel. I’m glad you’re finding the tips on my blog useful. Happy writing!

January 25, 2022 at 8:43 pm

Henneke, you did it well. You held me through till the end and I saw you practicing what you were demonstrating in this post. Yes, you varied your sentences. Good.

January 25, 2022 at 8:59 pm

Thank you, Enock. I’m glad you enjoyed this all the way to the end 🙂

January 25, 2022 at 5:31 pm

Sometimes feeling tortured.

Because I love your blog posts. And I can’t wait to devour them. But finding myself twitching like an addict every other Monday night. Waiting for a Tuesday morning inspirational and educational fix.

Sorry. Not sorry for the irritating way I started some of these sentences.

Thanks, and stay safe.

January 25, 2022 at 7:42 pm

Awww, Phil. You’re making me blush 😊

I don’t know what I can do to relieve the pain of addiction but I’ll do my best to keep writing and be here every other week.

Thank you so much for your kind words. Take care and be safe.

January 25, 2022 at 4:13 pm

I feel like a spoken-word artist when I read Seton’s piece😊

Thank you for this informative blog post. 😊😊

January 25, 2022 at 4:15 pm

You were an artist 🙂 Amazing writing by Seton, eh?

January 25, 2022 at 4:18 pm

Yikes! Thanks for the correction.

Still polishing 😊

January 25, 2022 at 4:21 pm

It wasn’t a correction. I was just suggesting that if you felt like an artist, you probably were an artist. Happy writing and happy reading!

January 25, 2022 at 4:24 pm

My bad. Got you now. 😊 Thanks

January 25, 2022 at 3:54 pm

Love this, Henneke! I’m here in the states reading the paragraph out loud at my desk 😊 The words do just flow. It’s rhythmic, like you said. Conversational. Thanks for the article and for all that you do!

January 25, 2022 at 4:04 pm

It’s lovely when writing flows like this, isn’t it? I’m glad you enjoyed it, too. Thank you for stopping by, Kristen!

January 25, 2022 at 3:34 pm

I loved your example. It feels exactly as you describe it and it grabs one’s attention.

January 25, 2022 at 3:50 pm

Thank you, Ana. I am glad you like it, too. I have now read it at least 10 times and I still like it 🙂

January 25, 2022 at 2:24 pm

Whenever I read your blog, I feel a sense of positivity, love and compassion.

Thank you so much for creating this blog. 🥰

January 25, 2022 at 2:36 pm

Awww, thank you so much, Rajneesh. That’s a lovely compliment.

I love such rhythm in writing and try to use it as much as possible. I also love using parallel construction, alliteration, and rhyme for parallel ideas. “Dreading detractors? Fearing foes? Intimidated by your in-laws? All those reasons to be reluctant even to write, right?” Like that. So are the styles mutually exclusive? And when we’ve worked hard to make short sentences bounce off the backboard of a long sentence, can it be too forced or even appear artificial or overdone? I never want to get so carried away that folks lose the depth of a story because they are loving what the author did—analyzing the technique, etc.

Yes, parallel construction, any type of rhyme (incl. alliteration), and repetition all contribute to rhythm and you can use them all.

It can be overdone but there’s no objective rule. For instance, some people think Nora Ephron uses repetition too much. But I like how she uses repetition—it makes her voice strong.

I would recommend leaving a draft for at least 24 hours, and then reading it aloud. You probably already do that! If you’re honest with yourself, you’ll know whether you like it or whether you’ve been pushing a little too far, whether you’re trying to show off a little too much.

January 25, 2022 at 6:09 pm

Yes! Like when I consult a thesaurus to find one more…???

I have no problem with consulting a thesaurus. I do it, too, sometimes 🙂

January 25, 2022 at 2:04 pm

What a beautiful conflagration of words AND rhythm.. Thanks to both the reader and to you. I have trouble with our now accepted casual use of grammar. Beginning sentences with “But” and using “between” when comparing more than two items is commonplace; I am called “Karen” for questioning issues such as these. I have also been told casual is different than written and is now the norm.

January 25, 2022 at 2:11 pm

I’d say you can break grammar rules if you do it with a purpose and as long as your text is still easy to comprehend.

I often start sentences with But, And, or Because. Does it irritate you when I do it, too? I’m just curious because I wonder whether it depends on context. Nora Seton also started a sentence with But in the paragraph I quoted.

January 25, 2022 at 12:16 pm

I always enjoy your emails, Henneke! Your Apple example was the best to me. You deconstructed their formula. Love it. So, powerful. Thank you!

January 25, 2022 at 12:29 pm

Thank you, Javad. The Apple copy is at times genius. I love the idea of having Hollywood in your pocket. It reminds me of the 1,000 songs in your pocket that they used for the iPod (gosh, that seems long ago!).

January 25, 2022 at 3:14 pm

You are welcome. About the iPod, so true. The past 2-3 years with the ongoing pandemic, it has gone even faster.

January 25, 2022 at 12:01 pm

The short sentences conclude. Indeed.

January 25, 2022 at 12:03 pm

January 25, 2022 at 11:38 am

Thanks, Henneke, I never thought much about the rhythm of sentences. I like how you always share great examples with us. That last one with she was a good cook looks SEO optimized as well. I may have to check out your course 🙂

January 25, 2022 at 11:47 am

That is so funny that it sounds like the writing in a memoir is SEO optimized. It kind of shows that good SEO writing is just writing for your reader!

I’m glad you liked the examples in this blog post—I’ve been hunting for good examples for a long time!

January 25, 2022 at 11:26 am

I like the point about highways and the absolute truth. That adds another dimension to rhythm. I’m not at Nora Seton’s level, of course, but I have noticed that you have to pay close attention to rhythm because monotony sets in fast And it only takes half a second to lose a reader.

Thanks for another great post. I learned something valuable.

January 25, 2022 at 11:49 am

I don’t think we all need to reach Nora Seton’s level. A little awareness of rhythm and reading your writing aloud to listen to it can make a difference.

Thank you for stopping by again!

Books and courses

Follow proven templates for specific writing tasks, practice your skills, and get professional feedback so you become a confident business writer. Take on any writing project with gusto. Learn more about books and courses

About Henneke

I never saw myself as a writer, but in my early forties, I learned how to write and discovered the joy of writing. Now, I’d like to empower you to find your voice, share your ideas and inspire your audience. Learn how I can help you

Popular topics

Sales copywriting

Blog writing for business

Your writing voice

Tips for beginning writers

The writing process

Improve your writing skills

Writing examples

Popular blog posts

Recent blog posts

Free Snackable Writing Course

Get 16 concise emails and learn how to write more persuasive content.

• International
• Education Jobs
• Schools directory
• Resources Education Jobs Schools directory News Search

Creative Writing Masterclass - Sentence Variation

Subject: English

Age range: 14-16

Resource type: Lesson (complete)

Last updated

19 February 2019

• Share through email
• Share through twitter
• Share through linkedin
• Share through facebook
• Share through pinterest

A lively and engaging lesson developing students’ ability to use a range of sentence structures and sentence openers. Ideal in preparing students for GCSE English Language Paper 1, Section B. The full scheme of work is available to purchase for just £5. Click this link to check it out!

In this lesson, a range of activities have been designed to develop your pupils’ imagination and descriptive writing skills. Lots of image based activities which connect quite strongly to what they will encounter in the writing section of paper 1 on the new AQA 9-1 Language syllabus. There are a wide range of activities that should keep your students busy for at least a couple of lessons.

Would work well as a standalone writing/literacy lesson or as part of the paper 1 writing scheme of work of which this is a part. Ready to go, lots of differentiation and Assessment for Learning built in to the activities.

If you loved the resource and think it’s worth 5 stars, why not get another one absolutely free? Simply leave a review, email [email protected] with your TES username and state the free resource* you would like! (Free resource cannot exceed the value of the original resource purchased)

Tes paid licence How can I reuse this?

Get this resource as part of a bundle and save up to 67%

A bundle is a package of resources grouped together to teach a particular topic, or a series of lessons, in one place.

Creative Writing Scheme of Work GCSE

Full scheme of work covering all aspects of creative writing. Ideal in preparing students for GCSE English Language Paper 1, Section B. Designed with the very latest developments in the 9-1 specification in mind, this is best suited to the AQA syllabus but would be equally useful for both KS3 prep and other exam boards. Please see individual resources for more details. The lessons all work well as stand-alone, but if being used in sequence, the scheme runs as follows: Lesson 1 - Vocabulary Lesson 2 - Sensory Description Lesson 3 - Devices and Techniques Lesson 4 - Narrative and Descriptive Openings Lesson 5 - Sentence Variation Lesson 6 - Characterisation Lesson 7 - Narrative Structure Each lesson takes the form of a 'masterclass'; each masterclass is packed with a range of activities that will enable your students to truly embed and master each aspect of creative writing. Each 'lesson' is probably going to take in excess of 2 hours to get through - you may wish to 'pick and choose' activities, or take your time with each skill area and cover them in depth. Great value bundle, save yourself over 60% compared to buying these resources separately. If you loved the resource and think it’s worth 5 stars, why not get another one absolutely free? Simply leave a review, email [email protected] with your TES username and state the free resource* you would like! (Free resource cannot exceed the value of the original resource purchased)

AQA GCSE Language Paper 1 Revision Scheme of Work

Everything you need to prepare your students for the AQA English Language Paper 1 (creative texts) exam. <br /> <br /> Full scheme of work for writing and mini-scheme for reading. Concise, skills focused sessions guaranteed to boost competency and confidence. <br /> <br /> See individual resources for more information. Feedback welcomed and appreciated. Save big buying the bundle over individual resources.<br /> <br /> 150 sensational starters for English thrown in free of charge!<br /> <br /> If you make a purchase and find the resource useful, why not get another one absolutely free? Simply leave a review for the resource purchased, email [email protected] with your TES username alongside a link to the resource you would like. Your free resource will then be sent over right away!

English Language Paper 1 and 2 GCSE Writing Schemes of Work

Complete schemes of work for the writing sections of papers 1 and 2 of the English Language GCSE qualification. Concise, skills driven lessons to boost your student's skills in a number of key areas.20+ hours worth of lesson content. Everything you need to teach these papers is here. Fully resourced and ready to go. Additional freebies thrown in: \* 40 worksheets for papers 1 and 2 (writing tasks worded in the AQA language format with guidance) \* 150 sensational starters for English Save big compared to buying these separately. 74% saving! Please see the individual resources for more information about them. Buy in confidence from a TES recommended author. If you make a purchase and find the resource useful, why not get another one absolutely free? Simply leave a review for the resource purchased, email [email protected] with your TES username alongside a link to the resource you would like. Your free resource will then be sent over right away!

Your rating is required to reflect your happiness.

It's good to leave some feedback.

Something went wrong, please try again later.

This resource hasn't been reviewed yet

To ensure quality for our reviews, only customers who have purchased this resource can review it

Report this resource to let us know if it violates our terms and conditions. Our customer service team will review your report and will be in touch.

Not quite what you were looking for? Search by keyword to find the right resource:

site categories

‘indiana jones and the great circle,’ ‘borderlands 4’ & more trailers from gamescom opening night live, breaking news.

• ‘Industry’ Creative Team Talk “Broadening The Canvas” On Season 3 & “Reminding Broadcasters That New Writing Doesn’t Have To Be Marginalized” – Edinburgh

By Max Goldbart

Max Goldbart

International TV Co-Editor

More Stories By Max

• Channel 4 Leverages AI For Latest Reality Series ‘The Honesty Box’
• ‘Boyzone’ Doc In The Works At Sky Featuring First Interviews With Ronan Keating & Company For 30 Years

The creators of HBO / BBC smash Industry have talked up how Season 3 “broadens the canvas” to show how “finance sits within a larger ecosystem of politics, the media and how it all actually works.”

Speaking at the Edinburgh TV Festival, Mickey Down and Konrad Kay opened up about some of the mistakes they feel they made on the first two seasons of the hit banking drama, with Konrad Kay saying “we were naive and arrogant” when forging the first, which he described as a “toxic combination” of traits.

Related Stories

'Boyzone' Doc In The Works At Sky Featuring First Interviews With Ronan Keating & Company For 30 Years

Meta Comedy 'Make That Movie' Kicks Off Channel 4 Edinburgh Commissions; Channel 5 Premium Factual Slate; Bad Wolf Writer Program - Edinburgh TV Festival Briefs

“It was very narrow and subjective at the start – we never broke away from the characters’ experience,” said Down. “Season 2 broke a bit more, we realized we could do storylines that had larger stakes than salad orders and going to the gym. And Season 3 we wanted to broaden the canvas and throw everything at the wall, but also show how finance sits within a larger ecosystem of politics, the media and how it all actually works.”

Vince Gilligan praise

The creators heaped praise on Breaking Bad auteur Vince Gilligan, who they said had inspired them to broaden the show’s scope and shoot for the stars with plot points. “Vince says that if you use your best ideas and give the audience a satisfying conclusion you might give yourself the challenge of saying, ‘This will be even more fun’,” added Kay, citing the decision to fire main character Harper, played by Myha’la, at the end of Season 2.

“By the nature of renewal and jeopardy of getting another season you can’t take anything for granted,” added Kay. “The most satisfying way to tell a story is to make sure each season comes to a heavy period.”

The third season of the Bad Wolf -produced drama introduces new character, Henry Muck, played by Kit Harington, the British CEO of an environmental, social and governance (ESG) outfit in the midst of going public. It focuses on the growing trend and discussion point of ‘woke investing’.

“New writing doesn’t have to be marginalized”

In Down and Kay, the show’s exec Jane Tranter said having two young showrunners “reminds broadcasters that new writing doesn’t have to be marginalized.”

“When the industry is contracting and going through a crazy time, we remind broadcasters of this,” she added. “You can give people a chance and this is how to do it. Mickey and Konrad started as good writers and then became really good EPs. This is what we should do to keep the ecology of our industry fresh and percolated.”

Thinking back to the start of Industry, Tranter said she had “taken for granted” being given a shot by the HBO and BBC on a drama that felt niche at the time. She implied it may not have been commissioned today.

“A TV drama commission is the stuff of dreams but particularly now it is so much harder because so much less is being done on both sides of the Atlantic and it’s so much harder to get work by new voices done,” she added.

She described former banking intern duo Down and Kay’s first draft as “like a flatline on a heart monitor,” but with “the most distinctive voice.”

“I’d never had a piece of work come in from writers who’d never written for TV before that was as strong as that,” added the His Dark Materials and Doctor Who exec. “I said to HBO, ‘Give us three years and they will be the best showrunners you have,’ and it took eight years.”

Down said his first draft was “almost documentarian, a reflection of our experiences of banking which was mainly monotony and the minutest drama.” “It was soulless and lifeless,” he said. “We didn’t have any of the humor.”

The panel was speaking at the Edinburgh TV Festival , which will see talks from Warren Littlefield, Anne Mensah and singer will.i.am tomorrow.

Must Read Stories

Edgar bronfman jr. makes his move with $4.3b bid, looking to unseat skydance.

Modern ‘Dorian Gray’ In Works From Katie Rose Rogers, Rina Mimoun & Berlanti

Obamas, emhoff among night 2 speakers; how to watch; broadway backs harris; latest, responds to request to rescind news & doc emmy nom for palestinian journalist, read more about:, subscribe to deadline.

Get our Breaking News Alerts and Keep your inbox happy.

Deadline is a part of Penske Media Corporation. © 2024 Deadline Hollywood, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Fall Quarter

• Student Login Username Password Remember my password --> Submit Forgotten Username/Password New Student Account Setup Existing Student Account Setup ? Close This form is for current or former Stanford Continuing Studies students who do NOT already have a student login. Click here if you already have a student login account and have forgotten your username or password.

• Join Email List Sign up

OWC 310 A — One-on-One Tutorial: Novel

Creative hobbies may greatly benefit mental health

Painting, woodworking, writing: Whatever you turn to creatively, it could equal or exceed work in terms of maintaining mental health, new research shows.

"Crafting and other artistic activities showed a meaningful effect in predicting people's sense that their life is worthwhile," said study lead author Dr. Helen Keyes , of Anglia Ruskin University in Britain. Advertisement

"Indeed, the impact of crafting was bigger than the impact of being in employment," she added. "Not only does crafting give us a sense of achievement, it is also a meaningful route to self-expression. This is not always the case with employment."

• Work stress may increase risk of heart rhythm disorder
• Study: Your body experiences 'massive' biomolecular changes in your 40s and 60s
• United States remains last for life expectancy among English-speaking countries

Folks were asked about their level of participation in cultural, digital and sporting activities.

People were also queried about their levels of loneliness and "sensations of happiness, anxiety and life satisfaction, and to give their impression of whether life is worthwhile," according to a journal news release.

More than a third (37.4%) of respondents said they'd been involved in some kind of arts or crafts activity over the past month. Advertisement

People who engaged in a creative pursuit scored higher in terms of happiness, life satisfaction and the sense that life is worthwhile, compared to folks who weren't involved in arts or crafts, the researchers found.

"The well-being effects were present even after we accounted for things like employment status and level of deprivation," Keyes said in a journal news release. "It seems that crafting can contribute positively to your well-being above and beyond these other aspects of your life."

Perhaps because many arts and crafts are done while alone, engagement didn't seem to affect people's levels of loneliness.

The study was only designed to show associations, so it could not prove cause and effect.

In her own life, Keyes said she's an avid devotee of DIY projects such as painting and decorating.

"There is certainly something immensely satisfying about seeing the results of your work appear before your eyes," she said. "It feels great to focus on one task and engage your mind creatively."

Policymakers might want to take guidance from the new findings, Keyes said.

"Governments and national health services might consider funding and promoting crafting, or even socially prescribing these activities for at-risk populations, as part of a promotion and prevention approach to well-being and mental health," she said. Advertisement

More information

Find out more about the benefits of being creative at the American Psychiatric Association .

Copyright © 2024 HealthDay. All rights reserved.

Latest Headlines

Trending Stories

Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

Ear Training: Sound and Meter

Welcome to the Purdue OWL

This page is brought to you by the OWL at Purdue University. When printing this page, you must include the entire legal notice.

Copyright ©1995-2018 by The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, reproduced, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our terms and conditions of fair use.

Introduction to Sound and Meter

Having defined pattern in poetry as "The artistic arrangement and use of the material (aural and visual) aspects of words into particular repetitive and/or serial forms as a means to structure a poem," and having discussed visual pattern elsewhere , we turn to those aspects of poetics that are probably most familiar to us, sound and meter. Whereas the visual aspects of poetry are "read at a glance," so to speak, the aural aspects are read in time, like music.

As said before, when most people think of poetry, the first things they think of are sound and meter. For thousands of years, poetic form has been defined by its cadence, its sing-song rhythms, and its sound effects. That is still true today, except now we include the visual aspects of the poem and we often do not subscribe to a set meter and rhyme pattern when we write. Poetry that does not use a set meter is called free verse poetry, but the phrase can be deceptive.

While it is true that free verse poetry does not subscribe to the set meters and forms that defined earlier forms of verse, it must still deal with these elements. While on the surface it may seem that free verse has pulled the poet away from the sound elements in a poem, in reality it has made the poet's task more complex. Since poets are now free to irregularly change the rhythms and sounds throughout a poem, they have many more choices to make with every word put on the page. T. S. Eliot said in his essay "The Music of Poetry" in 1942 that "no verse is free for the man who wants to do a good job", and, although written 60 years ago, it still holds true. The early 20th century changed forever the way we look at poetic form, but the traditions of sound and meter still hold a firm place in the poetic arts.

The words sound and meter are difficult to define and have many different aspects. Because of these difficulties, perhaps it is useful to think of these terms in the language of metaphor. If you think of the aural elements of a poem in terms of musical notation, you could think of meter as the rhythm created by the words (the horizontal movement of a piece of music, cutting up time into bigger or smaller increments) and sound as the notes of the piece of music (or the vertical movement, repeating sounds and syllables to create a "melody.") Each of these two elements are complex and require an in-depth definition. First, let's start with meter.