Mastering Third Person Point of View: A Beginner’s Guide to Writing

Mastering Third Person Point of View: A Beginner’s Guide to Writing

Writing in the third person point of view can be a challenging task for many beginners. The third person narrative is a popular technique used in writing, and it is essential for students of creative writing, professional writers, and novelists to master it. In this article, we will discuss how to write using the third person point of view. From what it is, why it is used, to how to master it, this guide will equip you with the necessary knowledge to become a better writer.

What is Third Person Point of View?

The third person point of view (POV) in writing is when the writer tells a story from the perspective of an unknown narrator. It does not involve using first or second-person pronouns. Instead, it relies on the use of third-person pronouns like ‘he,’ ‘she,’ ‘they,’ or by using character names. The third person point of view creates a sense of distance between the reader, narrator, and the story’s characters, thus giving the writer more objectivity.

Why is it Used?

Using the third person point of view provides writers with the ability to create a more comprehensive narrative by showcasing multiple angles of the story. It also contributes to making your story more believable, as it may feel more like a documentary or news report, with the writer serving as the observer rather than the protagonist.

How to Master Third Person Point of View

The following are a few tips that will help writers to master writing in the third person point of view:

1. Use descriptive language to portray characters and their emotions.
2. Use an omniscient viewpoint to provide a broader perspective on the story.
3. Use past tense and avoid present tense.
4. Use varying sentence lengths to create an engaging experience.
5. Connect the dots with elements like setting, time, dialogue, and action.
6. Use a consistent viewpoint.
7. Choose the appropriate point of view for your story.

Examples of Third Person POV

To illustrate how the third person point of view works, let’s look at a few examples:

1. “She woke up from her pleasant slumber to find the sun shining brightly, and the birds chirping loudly.”
2. “John and Sally went to the park to have a picnic. They laughed and talked as they enjoyed the warm sunshine.”
3. “The wind howled outside the window, shaking the shutters and rattling the doors.”

In the examples above, you can see that the characters are addressed directly in the third person. The narrator is not part of the story, but an observer who describes the events happening.

Conclusion

Mastering the third person point of view is essential for writers to create better narratives and stories. With the information shared in this article, beginners can develop their writing skills to become better storytellers and improve their writing style. Remember to practice regularly and experiment with different styles to find what works best for you. So go ahead, take the first step, and become a better writer today!