How can I build tension in a scene?

How can I build tension in a scene?

Building tension involves creating conflict, raising stakes, and using pacing effectively. What type of scene are you working on?

I'm writing a thriller scene where the protagonist is being chased.

Great! You can increase tension by using short, choppy sentences to quicken the pace. Describe the protagonist's racing heart and the sounds of footsteps behind them.

What about dialogue? Should I include any?

Yes! Sparse, urgent dialogue can heighten tension. Consider having the protagonist shout for help or whisper to themselves as they run.

Any tips on how to end the scene?

You could end with a cliffhanger, like the protagonist hiding just as the pursuer passes by. This keeps readers on edge!