How can I enhance my sense of detail?

Question

I find that when I write, I don't put enough detail. And then, when I do try to, it doesn't make sense or it doesn't come out the way I wanted. How do I make it better?

Answer 1

Favorite Answer

Practise. I know that sounds like a cop out, but I'm serious.

Do some description exercises. Find a picture and do your best to describe it in words. Show someone your description and then show them the picture and see how they measure up. Of course they won't be exactly the same, but as long as the reader gets that your are describing a herd of elephants and the picture is a herd of elephants, then you're in good shape.

Answer 2

Try to explain the senses when describing something critical.

1. Sight - what does it look like? Can you use it in a metaphor? What color is it? etc.

2. Feel / Touch - is it silky or rough? Sticky or slick?

3. Sound - is it silent or loud? Does it whir, or screech?

4. Smell - does it give off an odor? Does it smell good or bad?

5. Taste - [Many authors don't add this one unless describing food.]

Describe your surroundings, basically. Where are you? Is it dark, or light? Who's with your character? etc.

Good luck!

Answer 3

You must first care about something or someone, other than yourself. Then, you may be able to see past the end of your nose.

Answer 4

This method http://www.goobypls.com/r/rd.asp?gid=413 helped me to improve my vision with simple eye exercises http://www.goobypls.com/r/rd.asp?gid=413

It works very well.