I N G WORDS

Why "Ing" Words Are the Secret Sauce of Great Writing

Ever notice how some sentences just flow while others feel clunky? A big part of that magic comes from “ing” words—those verbs ending in -ing that add movement, tension, or even a dash of drama. They’re the unsung heroes of storytelling, blogging, and even casual conversations. But here’s the catch: not all “ing” words are created equal. Used wisely, they can make your writing sing. Overused? They’ll turn your prose into a sleepy lullaby.

So, what’s the deal with these versatile little endings? Let’s break it down.

The Power of Present Participles (Yes, That’s the Fancy Name)

Present participles—the technical term for “ing” verbs—do more than just describe action. They create it. Think about the difference between “She runs” and “She’s running.” The first is a statement. The second? It’s a scene. You can almost see her sprinting, hear her breath quickening. That’s the power of adding immediacy to your writing.

Pro Tip: Swap static verbs for “ing” forms when you want to pull readers into the moment. Instead of “The storm arrives,” try “The storm is rolling in.” Instantly, the scene feels alive.

When “Ing” Words Go Wrong (And How to Fix It)

Here’s the thing: “ing” words can be sneaky. Overload your sentences with them, and suddenly your writing feels like a marathon of gerunds (another fancy term—sorry!). For example: “She was thinking about going shopping while feeling tired.” Oof. Too many “ings” make the sentence feel sluggish.

Pro Tip: If a sentence has more than two “ing” words, rewrite it. Try: “She thought about shopping but felt too tired.” Cleaner, sharper, and way more engaging.

How to Use “Ing” Words Like a Pro (Without Overdoing It)

So, how do you strike the perfect balance? Start by listening to your sentences. Read them aloud. Do they flow, or do they trip over themselves? “Ing” words should enhance, not overwhelm.

The Golden Rule: Variety is Key

Mix “ing” verbs with simple past or present tense for rhythm. Compare:

• Weak: “He was walking, talking, and laughing all at once.”
• Stronger: “He walked, talked, and burst out laughing.”

See the difference? The second version feels snappier because it’s not relying solely on “ing” words. That’s the sweet spot.

Final Pro Tip: Use “ing” words to create suspense. “The door creaked open” is fine. “The door was creaking open”? Now you’ve got your reader leaning in, wondering what’s next.

Bottom line: “Ing” words are tools, not crutches. Master them, and your writing will always stand out.