Here's a breakdown:
What it includes:
* Specific details: Instead of saying "She was wearing a dress," you might say "She was wearing a flowing, emerald green dress with intricate lace detailing and delicate floral embroidery."
* Sensory details: Appeal to the reader's senses (sight, sound, smell, taste, touch). For example, instead of "The bakery smelled good," you might say "The air was thick with the warm, yeasty aroma of freshly baked bread, mingled with the sweet scent of vanilla and cinnamon."
* Anecdotes and examples: Use personal stories or specific examples to illustrate your points and make them more relatable.
* Background information: Provide context and relevant history to help the reader understand the subject matter more fully.
* Explanations and justifications: Explain why certain details are important and how they connect to the overall point.
Why it's important:
* Makes writing more engaging and memorable: Detailed descriptions capture the reader's attention and make the writing more immersive.
* Provides a deeper understanding: Elaborate details allow the reader to visualize the subject matter and gain a more complete understanding.
* Adds credibility and authority: Detailed descriptions demonstrate that you have thoroughly researched the topic and have a strong grasp of the subject matter.
* Creates a connection with the reader: By using sensory details and anecdotes, you can connect with the reader on a personal level and make your writing more relatable.
Example:
Basic: "The house was old and run-down."
Elaborate: "The house stood hunched on its foundations, a skeletal silhouette against the fading light. Its once-proud paint was peeling, revealing the weathered wood beneath. The roof sagged under the weight of years, and broken windows gaped like empty sockets. A tangle of overgrown ivy clung to its walls, a green shroud that whispered of neglect and decay."
In short: Elaborate details bring your writing to life and make it more informative, engaging, and impactful.