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Writing has the power to change lives. It can take us to different worlds, introduce us to new ideas, and even change the course of history. When we apply professional writing tips from other genres to genealogical stories, our final results can dramatically change.
What if I told you there are three pro writing tips from writing educators that dramatically transformed my writing style?
And what if I told you that someone who doesn’t have a solid background in grammar or creative writing could apply these quickly and easily?
Writing has the power to change lives. It can take us to different worlds, introduce us to new ideas, and even change the course of history. When we apply professional writing tips from other genres to genealogical stories, our final results can dramatically change.
1: Use Strong Verbs
One helpful tip for writing is to incorporate strong verbs. Verbs are essential components of a sentence and can enhance the vitality of your writing.
To find which words in your draft need improvement, search your text for the following verbs and their derivatives:
Go / Went / Gone/ Going
Came / Come / Coming
Say / Said / Saying
Get / Got / Getting
See / Saw / Seeing
Look / Looked / Looking
Is / Am /Was / Were
When you find these words in your text, replace them with more powerful verbs.
Instead of the word ‘said, ‘use admonished, beseeched, groaned, raved, urged, cried out, or sneered. For example, ‘mother said many things,’ write ‘mother admonished her children with the following adages.’
For another example, instead of saying 'he was happy,' state 'he beamed with joy.'
Incorporating powerful verbs can paint a clear picture in the minds of your readers and stimulate their senses.
Can you tell how this ‘simple’ tip affects your writing?
2. Show, Don't Tell
When writing, it's imperative to utilize descriptive language and sensory details to illustrate the events rather than just stating them outright.
For example, instead of saying 'she was sad,' describe how she looked and felt: 'Her eyes welled up with tears, and her shoulders slumped in defeat.' By showing instead of telling instead of telling, you can create a more immersive reading experience for your audience.
However, since writing that post, I heard YouTuber ShaelinWrites explain this tip differently. Shaelin suggests Describe, Don't Explain.
For instance, avoid the following:
Kepler Christensen traveled via ship to Ontario, Canada. It took him twelve days.
This description is rather dull because you told or described what Kepler did.
Boarding a larger frigate board in the port of Liverpool, Kepler surveyed the mass of fellow passengers and quietly whispered goodbye to his homeland. In twelve days, he'd sleep with four other male roommates as he transversed the ocean bound for Ontario, Canada, and a land of promise. At least he hoped this choice would fulfill the hopes he had.
While this is a simple example, I hope it clarifies the principle. Which technique terms do you like better? Let me know in the comments.
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3. Include possibilities
When writing, it's essential to incorporate possibilities to keep your readers engaged. By leaving room for the unexpected, you can create anticipation and make your writing more engaging.
Remember that life is full of surprises, and by embracing the unknown, you can take your writing to the next level. So don't be afraid to explore different possibilities and see where they take you. Your readers will thank you for it!
For instance, in my book about my immigrant ancestor, I wrote a chapter on the possible routes he could take from Baden, Germany, to a new place.
These included Australia, England, and various locations within the United States. I used periodicals and books detailing the benefits and drawbacks of immigrants to these locations in the 1850s. Finally, I wrote that Joseph chose Columbus, Ohio. I'm uncertain why he chose that location, but the fact that a German Catholic community had already established itself there was definitely an asset.
Which Pro Writing Tips Changed Your Writing?
Incorporating powerful verbs, showing rather than telling, and including potential outcomes are three essential writing techniques that can drastically enhance your writing and significantly impact your published genealogies. I transformed my family stories by utilizing these tips, and I assure you that they will do the same for you.
So, take charge and apply these techniques to your writing, and witness the transformative power of words in your stories.