How do you show someone is coughing on an essay?

You can't literally show someone coughing in an essay, as it's a written format. However, you can describe the act of coughing in a way that creates a vivid image for the reader. Here are some ways to do that:

Using Sensory Details:

* Sound: "A hacking cough ripped through the silence, followed by a choked wheeze."

* Sight: "His face contorted, his eyes watering as a violent cough wracked his body."

* Feel: "The cough hit her chest like a fist, leaving her gasping for breath."

Using Figurative Language:

* Simile: "The cough came like a wave, crashing over her lungs."

* Metaphor: "His cough was a rusty hinge, creaking open a doorway to illness."

* Personification: "The cough clawed its way up his throat, refusing to be silenced."

Using Contextual Clues:

* Dialogue: "I'm sorry," he said, clutching his chest. "I can't seem to shake this cough."

* Action: She reached for her water glass, a persistent cough rattling in her throat.

* Setting: The air hung heavy with the sound of coughing, a grim soundtrack to the hospital waiting room.

Remember:

* Choose the right technique: The method you use will depend on the overall tone and style of your essay.

* Don't overdo it: A single, well-placed description of a cough is often more effective than multiple, redundant ones.

* Focus on the effect: How does the cough affect the character or the story?

By using these techniques, you can effectively communicate the act of coughing in your essay, creating a more immersive experience for your reader.