Complete Guide to Writing: Techniques,
Devices, and Forms
1. Universal Writing Techniques
Show, Don't Tell
Instead of simply stating facts, describe actions and emotions to engage the reader. E.g.,
instead of 'She was sad,' write 'Tears rolled down her cheeks.'
Hook/Lead
Start with a powerful sentence to grab attention — a question, bold statement, or mystery.
Sensory Detail
Appeal to the five senses (sight, sound, smell, touch, taste) to create vivid images.
Pacing
Control the speed of the story to build tension or give detail where needed.
Flashback/Flashforward
Shift the timeline to reveal backstory or build suspense.
Contrast
Show differences to highlight conflict or change.
Symbolism
Use objects or events to represent deeper meanings or themes.
Dialogue
Use character speech to reveal personality, move plot forward, or build tension.
2. Language Devices (Literary Devices)
Simile
Comparison using 'like' or 'as'. E.g., 'as brave as a lion.'
Metaphor
Direct comparison without using 'like' or 'as'. E.g., 'Time is a thief.'
Alliteration
Repetition of initial consonant sounds. E.g., 'Peter Piper picked...'
Personification
Giving human qualities to non-human things. E.g., 'The wind whispered.'
Hyperbole
Exaggeration for emphasis. E.g., 'I've told you a million times!'
Onomatopoeia
Words that imitate sounds. E.g., 'Bang!', 'Buzz!'
Irony
An unexpected outcome or contradiction. E.g., 'A fire station burns down.'
Oxymoron
Two contradictory terms used together. E.g., 'Bittersweet victory.'
Repetition
Repeating words/phrases for emphasis. E.g., 'Never give up. Never surrender.'
Anaphora
Repetition at the beginning of sentences. E.g., 'We will fight. We will win.'
3. Writing Different Forms
A. Stories (Narrative Writing)
Structure: Orientation (Who/Where/When), Complication (Problem), Climax (Most intense
moment), Resolution (Solution), Coda (Reflection). Use vivid description, dialogue, and
suspense.
B. Letters
Formal Letters: Include sender/recipient address, date, salutation, body, and a polite close.
Informal Letters: Friendly tone, personal updates, and casual style.
C. Articles
Structure: Headline, Introduction (hook), Body (details and facts), Conclusion (wrap-up or
call to action). Use persuasive language, rhetorical questions, and clear paragraphing.
D. Speeches
Start with a greeting and hook. Present 2–3 main points. Use rhetorical devices like
repetition and questions. End with a strong, memorable conclusion.
E. Essays
Structure: Introduction (thesis), Body (points and evidence), Conclusion (summary and
reflection). Types include argumentative, narrative, descriptive, and expository.
F. Reports
Structure: Title, Introduction (overview), Method (how info was gathered), Findings,
Conclusion, Recommendations.
4. Persuasive Techniques
Pathos
Appeal to emotions to connect with the reader/listener.
Ethos
Establish credibility and trust.
Logos
Use logic, statistics, and facts.
Rhetorical Questions
Ask questions not meant to be answered, to provoke thought.
Emotive Language
Use strong words to stir emotions.
Call to Action
Encourage the reader/listener to take immediate action.
