Underwriters Vs Overwriters

By georgelthomas on 24 Sep 2024 • ( 0 )

Hi everyone! I hope you’re all well. Today, I’m exploring the concept of what it means to be an overwriter or an underwriter. So, let’s jump in!

Overwriters Vs Underwriters

When it comes to writing fiction, there are two types of writers: overwriters and underwriters. These terms refer to how much detail and complexity you put in your work as a writer (I have been both at various times).

What is an Overwriter
Overwriters are writers who tend to include an excessive amount of detail in their writing. While this can help create vivid imagery and immersive worlds, it can also lead to long-winded descriptions that slow down the pacing of your story.

An overwriter may struggle with writing too much backstory, cutting unnecessary information and dialogue or tightening up their prose, leading to bloated manuscripts that are difficult for readers to engage with.

What is an Underwriter
Underwriters tend to focus on plot and action at the expense of rich description and character development. While this can result in fast-paced stories that keep readers on the edge of their seats, it can also leave readers feeling disconnected from the characters and story world.

Underwriters may focus too much on dialogue and action, neglecting important world-building and scene setting, and struggle to convey emotion, making their work flat and lifeless.

How to Avoid Being an Overwriter or an Underwriter
One way to avoid falling into the trap of overwriting or underwriting is to trust your instincts and let your story flow naturally. Don’t feel the need to explain everything in great detail, but don’t skip over important information that could make the story more engaging, either.

Finding a balance between the two is crucial, and it’s all right to experiment and play around with your story until you find a good equilibrium. It can also be helpful to create an outline so you can see how much or how little you need to add to your story. Another idea is to get feedback from other writers or beta readers who can provide you with an honest critique of your writing style and help you identify areas where you may be overwriting or underwriting.

However, regardless of which of the two camps you fall into, it’s important to remember that the editing process is crucial. A good editor can help trim the fat from an overwriter’s overstuffed story while also working to help an underwriter add depth, nuance and detail.

If an editor is not an option for you (they can be expensive), you can learn to do it yourself with some hard work. There is lots of advice online about editing your work and plenty of books that can help you, too.

Overall, striking the right balance between overwriting and underwriting can be challenging, but with some patience and perseverance, you can hone your skills and become a better writer. It just takes lots of practice. As with anything, the more you do, the better you will become, and that’s especially true of writing; it’s like a muscle that becomes stronger the more you work it.

Anyway, as ever, thank you for reading my post.

Until next time,

George