Manuscript Analysis · Free · Private
About this free show don't tell hints
Telling names emotions instead of dramatizing them — one of the most common issues in AI drafts and early revisions. This show-don't-tell checker pattern-matches emotion labels, "was/were + adjective" constructions, and abstract feeling phrases, then highlights them for rewrite.
How to use the Show Don't Tell Hints
- Paste your scene or chapter.
- Click Analyze to scan telling patterns.
- Review highlighted emotion labels and mental verbs.
- Replace telling with action, dialogue, or sensory detail.
- Re-scan to reduce density per 1,000 words.
Frequently asked questions
What counts as "telling"?
Phrases like "she felt angry," "he was devastated," or "a wave of sadness" label emotions instead of showing behavior or sensation.
Is all telling bad?
No. Summary telling has its place. This tool helps you find clusters to convert in important scenes.
Why do AI drafts tell so much?
Models summarize internal states efficiently. Showing requires concrete detail — this checker marks where to add it.
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