Descriptive Writing: Structure

Understanding The Importance of Structure in Writing

Structure is the backbone of your writing, determining how your content is organised and presented. It refers not only to the overall layout of the text but also the arrangement of ideas and events within it.
A well-structured piece of writing enhances readability, allows for better flow of ideas, and can greatly impact the audience’s interpretation and enjoyment of the text.

Determining an Appropriate Structure

The structure you choose should be guided by your writing purpose and the narrative requirements. For instance, a chronological structure is often used in narrative writing, while a spatial structure is common in descriptive pieces.
Consider your audience when crafting your structure. The structure chosen should allow your target audience to follow your narrative easily or understand your descriptions without much difficulty.

Using Paragraphs to Organise Information

Each paragraph should present a single idea or detail. The first sentence, known as the topic sentence, usually introduces this key point.
Transitional words and phrases (e.g., “however”, “on the other hand”, “also”, “in addition”) help establish connections between paragraphs and ideas, contributing to a smooth flow.

Varying Sentence Structures

The variety in sentence structures – using a mix of short, medium, and long sentences – can affect the pace and mood of the narrative, making the writing more engaging.
The opening sentence of a piece of writing, in particular, can set the tone of the story, catch the reader’s attention, and influence their desire to continue reading.

Crafting an Effective Beginning and Ending

How a story begins and ends is vital for leaving a lasting impact. An effective opening, known as a hook, stimulates interest, while a compelling ending rounds off the narrative or ties key ideas together.
The ending doesn’t always have to be a resolution, particularly in short imaginative pieces. Leaving some aspects open-ended can encourage readers to engage with and further ponder upon the story.

Employing Structural Devices for Cohesion

Structural devices like foreshadowing (hinting at future events), flashbacks (reverting back to past events), and parallel structure (repetition of grammatical structure in sentences) can create cohesion in your writing, increase its aesthetic appeal, and help emphasise certain elements or themes.

Having a solid structural plan beforehand can help keep your writing coherent and focused. It can also save you time during the writing process itself. However, don’t be afraid to make changes if the style or tone of your writing deviates from your initial plan. Comprehending and utilising the principles of structure will greatly enhance the effectiveness of your descriptive writing.