FanficNotes/Show don't tell.md

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Raw Blame History

Source: show, don't tell @lyralit on Tumblr

show, don't tell:

Anticipation

  • Bouncing legs
  • Darting eyes
  • Breathing deeply
  • Useless / mindless tasks
  • Eyes on the clock
  • Checking and re-checking

Frustration

  • Grumbling
  • Heavy footsteps
  • Hot flush
  • Narrowed eyes
  • Pointing fingers
  • Pacing / stomping

Sadness

  • Eyes filling up with tears
  • Blinking quickly
  • Hiccuped breaths
  • Face turned away
  • Red / burning cheeks
  • Short sentences with gulps

Happiness

  • Smiling / cheeks hurting
  • Animated
  • Chest hurts from laughing
  • Rapid movements
  • Eye contact
  • Quick speaking

Boredom

  • Complaining
  • Sighing
  • Grumbling
  • Pacing
  • Leg bouncing
  • Picking at nails

Fear

  • Quick heartbeat
  • Shaking / clammy hands
  • Pinching self
  • Tuck away
  • Closing eyes
  • Clenched hands

Disappointment

  • No eye contact
  • Hard swallow
  • Clenched hands
  • Tears, occasionally
  • Mhm-hmm

Tiredness

  • Spacing out
  • Eyes closing
  • Nodding head absently
  • Long sighs
  • No eye contact
  • Grim smile

Confidence

  • Prolonged eye contact
  • Appreciates instead of apologizing
  • Active listening
  • Shoulders back
  • Micro reactions