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Printed from https://www.writing.com/main/newsletters/action/archives/id/13580-Info---How-NOT-to-Dump.html
For Authors: February 04, 2026 Issue [#13580]




 This week: Info - How NOT to Dump!
  Edited by: Lilli ☕ Author IconMail Icon
                             More Newsletters By This Editor  Open in new Window.

Table of Contents

1. About this Newsletter
2. A Word from our Sponsor
3. Letter from the Editor
4. Editor's Picks
5. A Word from Writing.Com
6. Ask & Answer
7. Removal instructions

About This Newsletter

"An info dump is like pressing pause on the story to give more information... readers come to us for the story, and if we stop the story in its tracks, readers can lose interest."
— Jami Gold

"The info dump is only acceptable if the author included a map so you can find where the hell they are talking about."
— Jonathan Limb


"One of the cardinal rules of fiction is to avoid info dumps like the brown lumps at the dog park."
— Scribeforge

"I try to leave out the parts that people skip."
— Elmore Leonard (via Be a Brilliant Writer)


Letter from the editor

Let’s face it, info dumps can be boring to readers. On the other hand, we need to give them a certain amount of information to let readers know what’s going on and keep them interested. Here are a few tips to help with the process.

*TulipB* Show, don’t tell.
I know, I know…we’ve all heard this before. But it is important. Try to reveal through characters’ actions, dialogue, or setting rather than long explanations. Allow readers to piece together information organically as the story unfolds.

*TulipO* Spread the information gradually.
Rather than providing all the background information all at once, sprinkle it in small bits over time. This will keep readers engaged and curious without overwhelming them.

*TulipP* Use natural dialogue.
Drop information by incorporating it into the character’s dialogue, thus avoiding lengthy explanations.

*TulipR* Keep it plot-relevant.
Introduce details when they’re crucial to the scene or conflict. Keep things focused.

*TulipV* Descriptions: keep them short and focused.
When describing a new concept or setting, focus on the key details rather than explaining everything all at once. Allow readers to fill in the blanks with context.

*Tulipy* Internal thoughts of the characters.
Allow characters to reflect or think about the world they are in, the backstory, or events. Be sure to keep the thoughts brief and tied to their emotional state or goals.

Ultimately, avoiding info dups is about respecting the reader’s memory and intelligence. Say what matters, say it well, and move on. The story will breathe more freely because of it.


Editor's Picks

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The Writer's Cramp Open in new Window. (13+)
Write the best story or poem in 24 hours or less and win 10K GPS!
#333655 by Sophy Author IconMail Icon
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Courage and Sunflower Seeds Open in new Window. (ASR)
A story of courage and sunflower seeds
#845160 by Maryann Author IconMail Icon
 
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Cloistered Open in new Window. (13+)
A temple initiate must choose his fate.
#2352120 by Amalthea Author IconMail Icon
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Lynn's Enchanting Nighttime Visitors Open in new Window. (E)
A little girl makes a wish upon a star. Who hears her plea?
#1796673 by Jeannie Author IconMail Icon
 
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The season she almost missed Open in new Window. (13+)
Maya hated winters…until one day….
#2353996 by Humming Bird Author IconMail Icon
 
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Looks Good On Paper Open in new Window. (18+)
Amandine takes up a new hobby
#2352370 by Annette Author IconMail Icon
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The Foreigner's Clothes Open in new Window. (13+)
When she woke up, her husband was missing... 3rd, 3/25 Short Shots, Quill genre finalist
Still Caught in your Shadow Open in new Window. (18+)
Still missing a Narcissist
#2350298 by Emberly Gray Author IconMail Icon
 
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A Timely Death - Part One Open in new Window. (E)
Mr. Magander has died and his friends have gathered to pay their respects.
#2353849 by starproms Author IconMail Icon

 
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Word from Writing.Com

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