Section B

• Descriptive writing helps the reader visualize the person, place, thing, or situation being described. When a text conjures a vivid, sensory impression in the reader’s mind, not only does it make the writing more interesting to read; it helps the reader understand the text better and recognize the author’s intention more clearly.
• Effective descriptive writing


  • Vivid details
  • Figurative language
  • Precise language
  • Thoughtful organization
• Vivid details


  Specific details that paint a picture in the reader's mind and appeal to the reader's senses. Descriptive writing may also go beyond creating a strong sensory impression to give the reader a "picture" of the feelings the description evokes in the writer.
• Figurative language


  Tools of the writer's craft such as analogy, simile, and metaphor that add depth to authors' descriptions.
• Precise language


  General adjectives, nouns, and passive verbs are used sparingly. Instead, specific adjectives and nouns and strong action verbs give life to the picture being painted in the reader's mind.
• Thoughtful organization


  Some ways to organize descriptive writing include: chronological (time), spatial (location), and order of importance. Descriptive writing about a person might begin with a physical description, followed by how the person thinks, feels and acts.