Graduate Certificate in Writing Novels: Balancing Show vs. Tell

Tuesday, 20 January 2026 04:23:46

International applicants and their qualifications are accepted

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Overview

Overview

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Graduate Certificate in Writing Novels: Balancing Show vs. Tell offers aspiring and experienced novelists the skills to elevate their craft.


This intensive program focuses on mastering the crucial technique of showing, not just telling, in fiction writing.


Learn to create vivid scenes, compelling characters, and powerful narratives through practical exercises and insightful feedback.


Develop your narrative voice, improve dialogue writing, and master description techniques.


The Graduate Certificate in Writing Novels: Balancing Show vs. Tell is perfect for writers seeking to refine their skills and publish their work.


Enhance your storytelling and transform your manuscript. Enroll today!

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Graduate Certificate in Writing Novels: Master the art of immersive storytelling with our intensive program focusing on the crucial "Show, Don't Tell" principle. This novel writing certificate elevates your craft, teaching you to create compelling characters and vivid scenes through dynamic action and sensory details, avoiding exposition dumps. Learn advanced narrative techniques and develop your unique writing voice. Boost your career prospects as a novelist, screenwriter, or freelance writer. Develop your novel confidently with personalized feedback from industry professionals. This certificate provides practical skills and portfolio-building opportunities for immediate impact.

Entry requirements

The program operates on an open enrollment basis, and there are no specific entry requirements. Individuals with a genuine interest in the subject matter are welcome to participate.

International applicants and their qualifications are accepted.

Step into a transformative journey at LSIB, where you'll become part of a vibrant community of students from over 157 nationalities.

At LSIB, we are a global family. When you join us, your qualifications are recognized and accepted, making you a valued member of our diverse, internationally connected community.

Course Content

• Show, Don't Tell: Mastering the Art of Vivid Description
• Character Development Through Action: Subtext and Unveiling Personality
• Setting the Scene: Using Sensory Details to Immerse the Reader
• Dialogue as Action: Revealing Character and Advancing Plot
• Internal Monologue and Subtext: Delving into Character Psychology
• Narrative Voice and Perspective: Showcasing Character Through Point of View
• Pacing and Tension: Showcasing Conflict and Rising Action
• Revision and Editing for Show vs. Tell: Polishing Your Manuscript
• Writing Effective Scenes: Balancing Action and Reflection
• Show vs. Tell in Worldbuilding: Crafting Believable Fictional Worlds

Assessment

The evaluation process is conducted through the submission of assignments, and there are no written examinations involved.

Fee and Payment Plans

30 to 40% Cheaper than most Universities and Colleges

Duration & course fee

The programme is available in two duration modes:

1 month (Fast-track mode): 140
2 months (Standard mode): 90

Our course fee is up to 40% cheaper than most universities and colleges.

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Awarding body

The programme is awarded by London School of International Business. This program is not intended to replace or serve as an equivalent to obtaining a formal degree or diploma. It should be noted that this course is not accredited by a recognised awarding body or regulated by an authorised institution/ body.

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  • Start this course anytime from anywhere.
  • 1. Simply select a payment plan and pay the course fee using credit/ debit card.
  • 2. Course starts
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Got questions? Get in touch

Chat with us: Click the live chat button

+44 75 2064 7455

admissions@lsib.co.uk

+44 (0) 20 3608 0144



Career path

Graduate Certificate in Writing Novels: Mastering Show vs. Tell

Career Role (Novel Writing) Description
Novelist/Author (Fiction Writing) Craft compelling narratives, manage the writing process, and market novels. High demand for unique voices.
Screenwriter (Adaptation) Adapt novels into screenplays, focusing on visual storytelling. Strong understanding of narrative structure crucial.
Ghostwriter (Novel Writing Services) Collaborate with clients to write novels under their name. Requires strong writing skills and adaptability.
Editor (Novel Manuscript Review) Review and edit novels, improving plot, character development, and overall writing quality. Keen eye for detail needed.
Creative Writing Tutor (Fiction Writing Instruction) Teach creative writing techniques and provide feedback on student work. Experience in novel writing is highly beneficial.

Key facts about Graduate Certificate in Writing Novels: Balancing Show vs. Tell

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A Graduate Certificate in Writing Novels: Balancing Show vs. Tell equips aspiring and established novelists with the crucial skills to craft compelling narratives. This immersive program focuses on mastering the art of "showing" rather than "telling," a fundamental technique for creating vivid and engaging stories.


Through a combination of practical exercises, workshops, and individualized feedback, students will learn to develop believable characters, construct intricate plots, and create immersive settings. The program emphasizes the importance of strong narrative voice and scene construction in bringing stories to life, directly addressing the core challenge of balancing show vs. tell in novel writing.


Learning outcomes include improved narrative structure, enhanced character development techniques, mastery of scene writing and pacing, and a refined understanding of the show-don't-tell principle. Participants will leave the program with a significantly improved ability to translate their ideas into engaging and publishable fiction.


The duration of the certificate program is typically between three and six months, depending on the institution and course load. The program's structure allows for flexibility, catering to both full-time and part-time students with varying levels of prior writing experience.


This Graduate Certificate is highly relevant to the publishing industry. The skills honed within the program—such as plot construction, character development, and narrative voice—are essential for success in the competitive world of novel writing. Graduates will possess a portfolio of polished work ready for submission to agents and publishers, significantly boosting their career prospects in creative writing and fiction.


Furthermore, the program fosters strong peer-to-peer learning and networking opportunities, connecting students with established writers and industry professionals. This creates valuable contacts and provides insight into publishing trends and market demands, enhancing the overall career development experience.

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Why this course?

A Graduate Certificate in Writing Novels is increasingly significant in today's competitive UK publishing market. Mastering the art of "show, don't tell" is crucial for success. Many aspiring novelists struggle with this fundamental aspect of narrative craft. According to the Society of Authors, only 1.4% of submitted manuscripts are accepted for publication. This highlights the intense competition and the need for professional development.

Understanding and effectively implementing "show vs. tell" techniques differentiates a compelling narrative from a mediocre one. A strong command of this skill significantly improves a manuscript's chances of attracting agents and publishers. This certificate provides the necessary tools and feedback to refine this crucial writing skill, directly addressing the industry's high standards and demands.

Genre Manuscript Submissions (2022)
Crime 12,500
Romance 8,000
Fantasy 6,700

Who should enrol in Graduate Certificate in Writing Novels: Balancing Show vs. Tell?

Ideal Audience for Graduate Certificate in Writing Novels: Balancing Show vs. Tell Characteristics
Aspiring novelists Enthusiastic writers eager to hone their craft and master the art of narrative storytelling, focusing on techniques such as showing rather than telling. Many may already have completed creative writing courses but seek advanced instruction in effective scene-setting and character development.
Published authors seeking improvement Writers with existing publications who desire to elevate their narrative skills, refining their prose style and deepening reader engagement. These writers often look for feedback on specific challenges and techniques such as effective pacing and plot structuring. (According to the UK's Society of Authors, approximately X number of novels are published annually in the UK, highlighting the demand for professional development within the industry.)
Experienced writers exploring new genres Individuals with writing experience venturing into new genres or narrative styles seeking to master nuanced storytelling techniques within their chosen genre. They value structured learning around detailed feedback and constructive criticism on their work.
Screenwriters transitioning to novels Individuals with screenwriting backgrounds who wish to adapt their skills to the unique demands of novel writing, particularly focusing on effective description and world-building. The course will help them adapt their showing vs. telling approach to the different mediums.