How to "Show, Don't Tell" in Nonfiction Writing

Many writers think "show, don’t tell" is just for fiction. But nonfiction needs it too—because facts alone don’t keep readers hooked.

Showing makes your writing:
More memorable (our brains latch onto stories and images)
More persuasive (readers "see" the evidence)
More engaging (dry facts become experiences)

But how do you "show" without bending the truth? Here’s how.

4 Ways to "Show" in Nonfiction (Ethically)

1. Use Vivid, Sensory Details

Instead of stating a fact, paint a picture with concrete details.

• Telling: "The factory was polluted."

• Showing: "The air inside the factory clung to the back of the throat, a mix of burnt plastic and sulfur. Workers squinted through a haze that left a greasy film on their safety goggles."

Tip: Pull from research—interviews, documentaries, or firsthand accounts—to keep descriptions accurate.

2. Replace Abstract Claims With Scenes

Turn concepts into mini-stories or case studies.

• Telling: "Stress harms productivity."

• Showing: "In a 2023 study, accountants working 60-hour weeks made 40% more errors in tax filings—like the one that cost a small business $12,000 in penalties."

Great for: Self-help, business, and science writing.

3. Let People’s Voices Be Heard

Use direct quotes, dialogue, or anecdotes to reveal emotions and stakes.

• Telling: "Many nurses felt overwhelmed during the pandemic."

• Showing: "‘We ran out of ventilators by 8 a.m.,’ said ICU nurse Lila Marcos, her gloves still smudged with ink from scribbling patient stats on her forearm. ‘That’s when I cried in the supply closet.’"

Caution: Only use real quotes (from interviews or published sources).

4. Compare the Unfamiliar to the Known

Analogies and metaphors bridge gaps in understanding.

• Telling: "The blue whale is enormous."

• Showing: "A blue whale’s heart is the size of a Volkswagen Beetle—so large that a human could swim through its arteries."

Pro Tip: Avoid clichés ("sharp as a knife"). Instead, tie comparisons to your topic (e.g., for a tech book: "The server crashed like a Tesla with no brakes").

When Is It Okay to "Tell"?

Sometimes, you need to be direct. Use telling for:

• Summarizing data ("Sales dropped 20% in Q3.")

• Clarifying key points ("This study proves X.")

• Transitioning between sections

The key is balance.

Your Homework: The "Show, Don’t Tell" Checklist

Next time you edit, ask:
Can I add a sensory detail? (Sounds, smells, textures)
Is there a real-life example or quote I can use?
Would an analogy make this clearer?
Am I stating the obvious? (If yes, show proof instead.)

Still have questions? Feel free to reach out to me!

10 Essential Writing Tools Every Nonfiction Author Should Know About

Writing a nonfiction book requires more than just a good idea and dedication—it also takes the right tools to help you stay organized, focused, and productive. From drafting to editing, these tools can make your writing process smoother and more efficient. Whether you’re a first-time author or a seasoned pro, here are 10 essential tools every nonfiction writer should know about.

1. Scrivener
Scrivener is a robust writing software designed specifically for long-form projects like books. It allows you to organize your manuscript into sections, store research materials, and easily rearrange content. Nonfiction authors love its corkboard view and outlining features, which make structuring complex topics a breeze.

2. Grammarly
Grammarly is an AI-powered writing assistant that catches grammar mistakes, typos, and even style issues. While it doesn’t replace professional editing, it’s a great first line of defense for polishing your writing before sending it off to an editor.

3. Evernote
Evernote is a versatile note-taking app that helps you keep track of ideas, research notes, and to-do lists. With its ability to sync across devices, you can capture inspiration wherever you are and organize it into searchable notebooks.

4. Zotero
For nonfiction authors who rely on research, Zotero is a must-have tool. This reference management software allows you to collect, organize, and cite sources effortlessly. It’s especially useful for academic and scholarly works that require meticulous citation management.

5. Hemingway Editor
Named after Ernest Hemingway, this tool focuses on clarity and readability. It highlights complex sentences, passive voice, and adverbs, encouraging you to write in a more concise and engaging manner.

6. Google Docs
Google Docs is a popular choice for collaborative writing. Its real-time editing and commenting features make it easy to share your manuscript with beta readers, co-authors, or your editor. Plus, it’s cloud-based, so you never have to worry about losing your work.

7. Trello
Trello is a project management tool that helps you track your writing progress. By creating boards and cards for different stages of your book—such as research, drafting, and editing—you can stay organized and motivated.

8. ProWritingAid
ProWritingAid is another excellent editing tool that goes beyond basic grammar checks. It offers in-depth analysis of your writing, including pacing, sentence variety, and overused words. It’s like having a virtual writing coach.

9. Dragon NaturallySpeaking
If typing feels like a chore, Dragon NaturallySpeaking can help. This voice recognition software lets you dictate your manuscript, making it a great option for authors who think better aloud or want to avoid writer’s cramp.

10. Canva
While primarily a design tool, Canva is incredibly useful for nonfiction authors who need to create visuals like charts, infographics, or social media graphics to promote their books. Its user-friendly interface and templates make designing easy, even for beginners.

The right tools can make all the difference in your nonfiction writing journey. Whether you need help with organization, editing, or research, these 10 tools are designed to support every stage of the process.

Ready to take your writing to the next level? Start exploring these tools today, and don’t hesitate to contact me for professional book editing services to polish your manuscript to perfection!