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Improve character action in one sentence using the 3-window technique

20.06.25

 

As 11+ exam creative writing tasks can range from 10 minutes to an hour, the length of the character description in a story will vary considerably.

However, there is one technique that can elevate a simple character action sentence, such as 'He ran quickly', for any exam-length writing, using a more complex sentence structure to better explain a character's movement.

This '3 window' technique forces us to think of 3 things to describe a character's actions in a sequence. We imagine them moving past 3 windows. In just one sentence, we develop our character, move the plot forward and use a complex sentence. Bingo! 

 Ten-minute task

1. Imagine your character and setting (e.g., a person fleeing a monster in a forest).

2. Now, imagine seeing your character move past a series of 'windows'- first, second, and third. What three different things could you say about your character as they 'move' past each imaginary window?

3. Write one complex sentence to include all 3 actions.

Example:

 Fred released a shriek of fear as his frozen feet lightened, and he bolted into the darkness.

Imaginary window 1 – We see Fred's face (a scream of panic, but with a surge of adrenaline).

Imaginary window 2 – We see his heavy feet gaining momentum.

Imaginary window 3 – We see him disappearing into the darkness.

Here is a list of prepositions and verbs to help you.

Prepositions

· beside

· around

· in front of

· behind

· down

· beyond

· into

· opposite

· toward

· through

· above

· inside

· near

Verb synonyms for 'ran.'

· dashed

· flew

· jogged

· raced

· shot

· sprinted

· bolted

· bounded

· galloped

· hastened

· hurried

· darted

Verb synonyms for 'went'

· ambled

· hopped

· flew

· drove

· trudged

· hurried

· crept

· set off

· dashed

· bounded

· marched

· sprinted

I hope you have fun using your 3-window technique!