# Show, don't tell in screenwriting: Before and after

**Quick answer:** Give the audience evidence instead of an explanation. A character hiding her sister's invitation lets viewers read jealousy without hearing the character name it.

Source: https://scriptsolo.com/blog/show-dont-tell-screenwriting/ · Scriptsolo · Updated 2026-10-23

A show-don't-tell approach is a screenwriting practice that commonly conveys information through action, behavior, and image instead of stating it. For the wider scene-building process, read [how to write a scene in a screenplay](https://scriptsolo.com/guides/how-to-write-a-scene/).

**Show, don't tell**: Show, don't tell commonly means conveying information through action, behavior, and image rather than explaining it in words. Treat it as advice about choosing evidence, not a ban on speech.

## What does a tell-to-show rewrite look like?

A useful rewrite replaces an explanation with something the audience can notice. In this example, don't replace jealousy with a vague frown. Give Mara a choice that exposes it.

**Before:** Emotion: Telling

```
INT. MARA'S KITCHEN - DAY

Mara opens an invitation to her sister's exhibition.

                      MARA
          I'm jealous that she gets all the
          attention.
```

**After:** Emotion: Showing

```
INT. MARA'S KITCHEN - DAY

Mara opens an invitation to her sister's exhibition. She
props it against the fruit bowl.

Her phone rings. The screen reads MOM.

Mara turns the invitation facedown before answering.

                      MARA
          Let me guess why you're calling.
```

Notes:

1. Hiding the invitation suggests resentment. The dialogue doesn't need to name it.

## How do you show a character's thoughts?

Commonly, private thoughts need an expression the audience can see or hear. Suppose a draft says Ivo considers confessing to stealing from his boss. That tells the reader his decision without giving the audience evidence.

Instead, have Ivo take the stolen cash from his pocket as his boss searches the empty drawer. When his boss turns, Ivo hides it behind his back and offers to check the lock. His unfinished confession becomes a physical choice. For words that conceal a feeling, read [showing what isn't said through dialogue](https://scriptsolo.com/blog/subtext-in-screenwriting/).

## How do you show backstory?

Let the past affect what someone does now. In an early version, Tess explains that a flood ruined her kiln and she fears another flood. Replace that explanation with a delivery worker rolling the replacement toward a low outlet. Tess blocks the trolley and points to a platform above an old waterline.

The worker objects that the cable won't reach. Tess refuses to move. The waterline suggests the flood, while her refusal shows its lasting effect. Her disagreement gives that history a present consequence, as in building conflict from opposed wants.

## When is telling fine?

Keep a direct statement when saying it is the character's meaningful choice. Ivo admitting he took the money could matter more than another attempt to hide it. Don't remove speech just because it explains something. Ask what speaking costs the character.

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## Frequently asked questions

### Is show, don't tell a rule?

Show, don't tell is commonly treated as advice, not an absolute rule. Use it to find places where behavior could carry information more convincingly than explanation.

### Can a screenplay describe what a character thinks?

Commonly, a screenplay expresses private thoughts through behavior, action, or dialogue. Rather than naming a hidden decision, show the character beginning an action and then abandoning it.

### Can I use voice-over to tell?

Voice-over, spoken words the audience hears without seeing the character speak, is an exception to the common convention against stating private thoughts. Consider whether hearing the thought adds something the visible action cannot.