Notes on Writing a Narrative Descriptive Paper

Key Guidelines for Writing

A Narrative with a Point

• A narrative is more than just recounting events; it should have a point or lesson.
• Conflict should be integral, causing change in the main character (likely you).
• Choose a topic fitting the assignment to ensure built-in conflict and a point.

Consistent Point of View

• First-person (I did this...) is recommended as papers are often personal stories.
• Third-person is an alternative if uncomfortable with first-person.
  • Be wary of shifts, e.g., from first to second-person.
  • Avoid second person ('you') except in dialogue.

Consistent Verb Tense

• Default to past tense as stories recount past events.
• Be cautious of slipping into present tense.
  • Example: "Ralph was mean... he marches in..." shows tense shift.

Chronological Order

• Use chronological order to organize events.
• Flashbacks are permissible but challenging.
• Ensure clarity in event order; revise to insert missed information at appropriate points.

Enhancing the Paper with Details

Sensory Details

• Include vivid sensory details (sight, sound, smell) to enhance the narrative.
• A-grade papers often have more detailed sensory descriptions than B-grade papers.
• Ensure details align with the story's tone and dominant impression.

Use of Dialogue

• Show conversations instead of summarizing them.
• Use dialogue to provide clarity and engage the reader.
• Follow technical guidelines for dialogue:
  • Start a new paragraph for each speaker.
  • Keep punctuation within quotes.
  • Incorporate actions and additional narrative (e.g., gestures during speech).

Writing Techniques

Creative Nonfiction

• You can alter true stories to better convey the desired point.
• Change or create details if necessary to support the narrative's main point.

Showing vs. Telling

• Show events and let the reader infer the main point.
• Avoid explicit summarization of lessons at the end.
• No need for traditional introduction or conclusion.

Final Tips

• Check for consistency in point of view, verb tense, and sensory detail alignment.
• Trust the reader to understand the story's point without explicit statements.
• Contact the instructor for clarifications or questions.

These guidelines aim to help you structure and enrich your narrative descriptive papers effectively.