Tension checklist
l A
viewpoint that involves the reader (makes them see as character sees, sharing
partial discovery)
l A
setting with atmosphere
l A
particular situation, sharply depicted
l Appeals to one or more of the senses (maybe
exaggerated)
l Similes
or metaphors to create vivid sensations
l Well-chosen
and limited direct speech – if used
l Unexplained
details/hinted-at worries, fears or expectations – reader asks questions
l Varied sentence length and structure
l Short
sentences or minor sentences used for effect
l Repetition
of key phrases or words
l Time reminders – ticking clock, time checks,
temporal connectives
l Punctuation that acts to slow down or speed
up the pace
l Powerful
verbs or verbs that add to doubts and fears and expectations (‘seemed’, ‘might
have been’)
l Effective
noun phrases – don’t overuse adjectives
l Well-chosen
adverbs
l Combinations
and variety of technique build and vary the level of tension which can reach a
climax, be held at that point of climax or quickly relaxed – the tension has
been structured/organised/shaped to create the fear or excitement
REMEMBER: Use vivid, telling details, and sentences that maximise
feelings or atmosphere.
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