Descriptive Notes

Description is a vital part of effective writing.  Used wisely, this part of written communication creates a connection and evokes a specific response as the reader begins to form an image from the words. 

As the writer, your task is to give the best details possible to create that "verbal picture" for whatever topic you've chosen.  Keep in mind, you need to know the "why" of what you're describing.  What's your purpose?  Remember, that answer comes through most clearly when you follow the process--brainstorm first! 

This essay is a good one to combine listing and freewriting.  As you begin a list of "impressions," try to involve as many sensory responses as possible.  You may only use a small portion of the list you produce, but this push to write down everything you "sense" will help you come to a clearer purpose in the writing.

In selecting a topic, take a look at places, people, or possessions as possibilities.  You might also explore an emotion or an event.  Stay focused on creating that dominant impression of whatever you choose.

Be specific in your choice of organization, keeping in mind that the reader needs to "see" what you're describing.  Your choice should fit your subject--what best helps the reader to picture what you're describing?  Is spatial the best guide--moving from left to right, top to bottom, or in a circular pattern?  Is emphatic the best--going from smallest to largest or least important to most important?  What best fits your subject?

Remember as well that while this essay is focused on description, you may be narrating or defining or even showing a cause/effect relationship as well.  Your main purpose, though, is to describe.

Don't skip any of the writing process steps:

1)  THINK!  Freewrite/brainstorm to get your ideas flowing.

2)  Evaluate and organize your brainstorming information.  Identify a specific purpose/point you'll bring out in your essay. 

3)  Do a scratch outline to help keep yourself on track. 

4)  Write a really messy draft, and then let it sit for awhile. 

5)  Revise for clarity and detail. 

6)  Revise again for grammar wobbles.  SPELL CHECK!! 

7)  Hand in your final polished copy, and include all your pre-writing/draft work.