 For Authors: February 04, 2026 Issue [#13580] |
This week: Info - How NOT to Dump! Edited by: Lilli ☕  
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"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) |
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.
 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.
 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.
 Use natural dialogue.
Drop information by incorporating it into the character’s dialogue, thus avoiding lengthy explanations.
 Keep it plot-relevant.
Introduce details when they’re crucial to the scene or conflict. Keep things focused.
 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.
 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. |
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