A language choice matters because of what it does to the reader. Use three steps: say what the writer chose, say what it suggests, then explain the effect on the reader or the meaning.
This lesson belongs to SPM English. It follows discussing character, setting and conflict, because effects are easier to explain once you know the situation. The examples are original.
What are the three steps?
Step 1 is the choice: the word, image or sentence pattern. Step 2 is what it suggests. Step 3 is the effect: what the reader feels or understands as a result.
A short frame is “The writer uses ___, which suggests ___, so the reader feels or understands ___”.
Worked example: two versions of one sentence
Version A: “The old man walked across the yard.”
Version B: “The old man trudged across the yard.”
The writer chose “trudged” instead of “walked”. It suggests heavy, slow steps, as if each one takes effort. The effect is that the reader feels his tiredness and may sympathise with him.
A second example is sentence length. “He stopped. He listened. Nothing.” Three short sentences slow the pace and create tension, so the reader waits with him.
| Choice | What it suggests | Effect on the reader |
|---|---|---|
| “trudged” | heavy, tired steps | sympathy, a sense of weariness |
| short sentences | pause, suspense | tension, waiting |
| “a cold, grey morning” | lack of warmth | a gloomy mood |
The mistake that costs marks
The common slip is to name a device and stop. “The writer uses a simile” is true, but it says nothing about the meaning.
| Answer | Problem |
|---|---|
| “The writer uses a metaphor.” | No effect |
| “The word ‘trudged’ is good.” | Vague |
| “‘Trudged’ suggests heavy steps, so the reader feels his tiredness.” | Complete |
The fix is to add “so” and finish the thought.
How do I find an effect when I am unsure?
Swap the word for a plainer one, like “walked”. Notice what is lost. The missing feeling is the effect.
Then describe that feeling in your own words and link it to the passage.
Check yourself
Extract: “The wind howled through the empty corridor, and every door was shut.” Explain the effect of “howled” and “every door was shut”.
Answer
“Howled” gives the wind a loud, animal-like sound, which suggests danger or loneliness, so the reader feels uneasy. “Every door was shut” suggests no one is there to help, which adds isolation. Together they create a lonely, threatening mood.
What to study next
Go on to checking the prescribed text before using a study guide. The claim, evidence and revision desk helps you revise an explanation. If you would like a teacher to read your answers, see online one-to-one English tuition.