1. Sensory details:
* Sight: What color, shape, texture, size is it? Does it reflect light?
* Sound: What noises does it make? Is it silent?
* Touch: How does it feel? Is it rough, smooth, soft, hard?
* Smell: What does it smell like? Does it have a strong or faint scent?
* Taste: If applicable, how does it taste? Is it sweet, sour, salty, bitter?
2. Function:
* What is its purpose? What does it do? How is it used?
3. Comparisons:
* How is it similar or different to other things? Is it like something else you've seen or experienced?
4. Emotions:
* How does it make you feel? Is it beautiful, ugly, comforting, scary, exciting?
5. Figurative language:
* Use metaphors, similes, and imagery to create a vivid picture in the reader's mind.
6. Objective vs. Subjective:
* Objective: Focus on factual information, using clear and precise language.
* Subjective: Express your personal opinions, feelings, and interpretations.
Here's an example:
Objective: "The apple is a red, spherical fruit with a smooth, shiny skin."
Subjective: "The apple, with its blushing crimson skin and delicate aroma, is a symbol of autumn's bounty. Each bite bursts with a sweet, tart juice that awakens the senses."
Ultimately, the best way to describe something is to consider your audience and your purpose. What do you want them to know, understand, or feel about the thing you are describing?