How to Build Tension in Writing: Tips and Examples

Introduction

Tension in writing is a crucial element that can draw readers into a story and keep them hooked until the very end. Whether it’s a novel, a short story, or a screenplay, tension is essential for creating an engaging narrative. But what exactly is tension in writing?

Tension in writing is the feeling of anticipation and suspense that comes from the rising action in a story. It’s the sense of unease or fear that a reader feels as they progress through the plot. When done correctly, tension in writing can be used to keep readers on their toes, guessing at what will happen next.

In this article, we’ll discuss some tips and examples for how to build tension in writing. We’ll look at ways to use cliffhangers, introduce suspenseful elements, create characters with conflicting motives, increase the stakes throughout the story, employ pacing to create tension, and utilize sensory details to paint a vivid picture.

Use Cliffhangers

A cliffhanger is a literary device that leaves readers in suspense by ending a scene or chapter with an unresolved problem. It’s a great way to build tension, as readers are left wondering what will happen next. For example, in J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, the chapter ends with Voldemort searching for the Philosopher’s Stone. This creates a sense of suspense and anticipation that carries over into the next chapter.

When incorporating cliffhangers into your writing, be sure to provide enough context so that readers understand the situation, but not so much that you give away the resolution. You should also avoid using cliffhangers too often, as they can become predictable and lose their effectiveness.

Introduce Suspenseful Elements

Suspenseful elements are plot points that add tension to a story. These can include plot twists, surprise revelations, and unexpected events. They should be introduced gradually, so that readers have time to anticipate and speculate about what might happen next. For example, in George R.R. Martin’s A Game of Thrones, readers are kept in suspense as they follow the various characters and their stories, never quite knowing what will happen next.

When introducing suspenseful elements, remember to stay true to the story and its characters. Make sure that the events make sense within the context of the story and that they don’t come out of nowhere. Also, try to avoid predictability. If readers can guess what’s going to happen, the suspense will be lost.

Create Characters with Conflicting Motives

Conflicting motives are a great way to add tension to a story. By introducing characters with opposing goals and desires, you can create a sense of tension and conflict between them. For example, in William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, the two protagonists have conflicting goals—Romeo wants to marry Juliet, while her family wants her to marry Paris. This creates a sense of tension and uncertainty that carries throughout the play.

When creating characters with conflicting motives, make sure that each character has a valid reason for wanting what they want. Show us why they feel the way they do and what’s at stake for them if they don’t get it. This will make the conflict more believable and relatable to readers.

Increase the Stakes Throughout the Story

Increasing the stakes throughout the story is another great way to build tension. The stakes refer to the consequences of the characters’ actions and decisions. As the stakes get higher, the tension increases and readers become more invested in the outcome. For example, in Suzanne Collins’ The Hunger Games, the stakes increase as the characters fight to survive the brutal competition. This creates a sense of suspense and uncertainty that keeps readers hooked until the very end.

When increasing the stakes, make sure that the events feel organic and that they’re connected to the characters’ goals and motivations. Also, be sure to show readers the consequences of the characters’ decisions. This will help to create a sense of tension and urgency that will keep readers engaged.

Employ Pacing to Create Tension

Pacing is an important tool for creating tension in writing. By controlling the speed at which the story progresses, you can create tension and suspense. For example, in Stephen King’s The Shining, the pace slowly builds as the story progresses, creating a sense of dread and foreboding. This keeps readers on the edge of their seats, waiting to see what will happen next.

When employing pacing to create tension, try to vary the speed at which the story progresses. Start off slow, then gradually increase the pace as the tension builds. This will help to keep readers engaged and invested in the story. Also, be sure to give readers moments of respite to break up the tension.

Utilize Sensory Details to Paint a Vivid Picture

Using sensory details is another effective way to build tension in writing. By providing vivid descriptions of sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and textures, you can create a more immersive experience for readers. For example, in Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale, the author paints a vivid picture of the oppressive world in which the characters live. This creates a sense of tension and fear that carries throughout the story.

When utilizing sensory details, be sure to use all five senses. Don’t just focus on one or two; use all five to create a fully immersive experience for readers. Also, try to vary the intensity of the details. Too much detail can become overwhelming, while too little can make the scene feel flat.

Conclusion

Tension in writing is an essential element for creating an engaging narrative. By using cliffhangers, suspenseful elements, conflicting motives, increasing the stakes, employing pacing, and utilizing sensory details, you can create a sense of anticipation and suspense that will keep readers hooked until the very end.

We hope that this article has given you some insight into how to build tension in writing. Remember to experiment and find what works best for your story.