Descriptive Paragraph Writing | Complete Format & Samples in PDF

Remember the time as a kid when we used to tell ghost stories with dramatic effects during power cuts or the stories our parents, and grandparents used to tell us? We would usually get lost in the world the storyteller has created with words.

In the writing section, the descriptive paragraph is the same but instead of telling, here, we will talk about writing descriptions. This writing piece will cover what a descriptive paragraph is along with its types and examples. 

What is a Descriptive Paragraph?

The introduction might have given you an idea of what a descriptive paragraph is. A descriptive paragraph is a written description that will help any reader create a clear and detailed image of the event, person, place, or object. A description can be in both written and verbal form. 

A well-crafted descriptive writing is intended to appeal to the reader’s senses creating a well-defined image in their mind. The writer needs to use their sensory information to make the reader feel a required connection with the described event. To write a descriptive paragraph, you must study your topic closely, make a list of the details you observe, and organize those details into a logical structure.

Students can download this PDF for several descriptive paragraph samples and practice questions.

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Structure of Descriptive Paragraph

Title: Create an interesting title clearly and concisely that could develop an interest in the reader’s mind.

Introduction: This paragraph is the main introductory part of the written description.

Overview: This paragraph will include the content that will support and help in creating the introduction paragraph. It formulates the body of the main paragraph. 

Types of Descriptive Paragraphs

Person

This kind of descriptive paragraph will include the events and characteristics related to a person’s life. This usually includes a biographical sketch of a person (can be he, she, or they) covering all the major events and achievements from birth to the present time.

Technique

• Think about the five senses — see, hear, touch, smell, and taste.
• Use descriptive language such as metaphors and similes to paint a visual picture of a person in the reader's mind.
• Think of descriptive adjectives - adventurous, clumsy, grumpy, annoying, etc.
• Use examples of creative and descriptive writing to get the latest and exciting approach.

Example

Write a descriptive paragraph on Bismillah Khan in not more than 100-120 words.

Bismillah Khan, the legendary shehnai maestro, was a mesmerizing musician whose melodies transcended boundaries and touched the souls of millions. With his beloved instrument, the shehnai, he crafted an enchanting symphony that resonated with both traditional and contemporary audiences.

His performances were a visual and auditory treat. Dressed in traditional attire, his eyes sparkled with passion as he brought the shehnai to life. The mellifluous notes that emanated from his instrument seemed to weave a tapestry of emotions, transporting listeners to a world of serenity and bliss.

The shehnai was no match for Bismillah Khan's prowess. He navigated challenging ragas with ease, enthralling listeners with his flawless control and accuracy.  Audiences were spellbound by his playing's sheer virtuosity, which cut across linguistic and cultural barriers.

In addition to his musical prowess, Bismillah Khan had a kind and modest spirit. All who had the pleasure of seeing his performances or getting to know him personally were won over by his contagious smile and down-to-earth personality.

Numerous honors, including the prestigious Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, were bestowed upon Bismillah Khan for his contributions to Indian classical music. His music is still a priceless treasure, and his legacy has inspired generations of musicians.

In the world of music, Bismillah Khan's name will always be inscribed in gold letters, representing the strength of ardor, commitment, and the capacity of music to cross divides and unite people.

Event/ Situation

This kind of descriptive writing includes writing factual information regarding an event or situation that has taken place in chronological order. Here, the writing is described using past tense since that event or situation has already taken place. It helps in recording our day-to-day life events or to get first-hand information regarding any event or situation. 

Technique

While describing an event or situation, the following points should be taken into consideration.

• Name of the event
• When did it happen
• What happened (Give details)
• Who were the people involved
• Why was it important

Example

Describe the Diwali festival using the following verbal cues:

• Diwali—a festival of lights
• A festival of victory of good over evil
• Crackers and fireworks
• Sweets
• Diyas
• Prayers
• Exchange of gifts

Diwali

The festival of Diwali is the most important festival celebrated in India. It is a festival of lights. It is celebrated somewhere in October or November, 20 days after Dussehra. It marks the victory of good over evil as Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and his brother Lakshmana return home after 14 years of exile. To welcome them the entire city of Ayodhya was decorated with Earthen lamps (diyas). This festival is celebrated with great pomp and show. People exchange gifts, which signifies love and respect for their relatives and friends. All the houses are illuminated with diyas and candles. Children burn crackers and fireworks which look very beautiful. People pray to Goddess Laxmi for the well-being of their family and businesses.

How to Write a Well-drafted Descriptive Paragraph?

The reader must be able to get a mental image of the event, person, place, object, or situation while reading the paragraphs. There are a few points one needs to keep in mind to write a descriptive paragraph. 

• Choose a catchy and interesting title to grab the reader’s attention.
• Before you begin writing, try to brainstorm ideas on how you can describe the event or person and try to think about what you see, hear, feel, taste, and smell i.e. sensory information.
• Using vivid, detailed, and descriptive language will help the reader in forming a clear mental image. 
• Use passive voice to describe scientific, technical writing, and lab reports.
• Be concise and specific
• Use metaphors and similes
• Try not to put your personal opinion while describing any event or situation. 
• Use a concluding sentence that circles back to the topic's significance.
• Arrange the details in a sequence that makes sense for your topic.
• If you get stuck, read model descriptive paragraphs for insight, and don't be afraid to experiment with different arrangements.

In your final draft, the details should follow a logical pattern, with each sentence connecting to the sentences that come before and after it. 

Practice Questions

List of all the topics for descriptive paragraph writing practice.

FAQs

What is a Descriptive Paragraph and its examples?

Any written description that helps the reader develop clear and in-detail visuals of any person, event, object, or place. It can be in both verbal and written form. Here is an example describing exam day blunder to help you understand it better.

For example,

I usually take great care to prepare for my exams. But yesterday, I made an unthinkable blunder. I reached the school feeling prepared and confident for my Mathematics exam. When I met some of my classmates, I was astonished to find that they were all revising for the English exam! The astonishment turned into fear and panic when I realized that I had gotten it all wrong. I borrowed my friend’s English reader and began reading up chapters and looking up questions. When the bell rang for us to assemble in our respective exam centers, I was shaking with nervousness. But, I took a deep breath, calmed myself down, and sat down for the exam. The question paper turned out to be easy, and I sighed in relief.

From where can we download the practice questions of Descriptive Paragraphs for class 9?

You can download the practice questions of descriptive paragraph topics for Class 12 from this link.