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Writer’s Language & Techniques

Identifying similes, metaphors, personification, alliteration and other literary devices and explaining their effect.

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What is Writer’s Language & Techniques?

Writers use language techniques (also called literary devices) to create effects and make their writing more engaging. In the 11+ exam, you need to identify these techniques AND explain their effect on the reader.

Simply naming the technique is not enough – you must explain what it does and why the writer used it.

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Step-by-Step Method

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Spot the technique

Look for: simile (like/as), metaphor (is), personification (giving human qualities to non-human things), alliteration (repeated starting sounds), onomatopoeia (words that sound like what they describe).

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Name the technique

Use the correct terminology: simile, metaphor, personification, alliteration, hyperbole, onomatopoeia, repetition.

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Quote the example

Give the exact words from the text, using quotation marks.

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Explain the effect

Say what it makes the reader feel, imagine or understand. This is the most important step.

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Link back to the question

Make sure your answer addresses what the question actually asks.

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Worked Examples

Example 1 – Simile

“The wind howled like a wolf.” Identify the technique and explain its effect.

Working

  1. Technique: simile (uses “like” to compare).
  2. The wind is compared to a wolf.
  3. Effect: this makes the wind sound fierce and frightening, creating a threatening atmosphere.
Answer: The writer uses a simile, comparing the wind to a wolf. This creates a sense of danger and wildness, making the reader feel that the wind is fierce and threatening.
Example 2 – Personification

“The trees danced in the breeze.” What technique is used and what effect does it create?

Working

  1. Technique: personification (trees cannot actually dance).
  2. Effect: it makes the scene feel lively and cheerful, as if nature is celebrating.
Answer: This is personification – the trees are given the human action of dancing. This creates a joyful, lively atmosphere, suggesting the scene is pleasant and carefree.
Example 3 – Alliteration

“Peter picked a peck of pickled peppers.” Why might a writer use alliteration like this?

Working

  1. Technique: alliteration (repeated “p” sound).
  2. Effect: creates rhythm, makes the line memorable and fun to read.
Answer: The writer uses alliteration with the repeated “p” sound. This creates a playful rhythm that makes the sentence memorable and enjoyable to read aloud.
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Common Mistakes

Common error

Naming the technique but not explaining its effect on the reader.

Correct approach

Always explain what the technique DOES – how it makes the reader feel or what it helps them imagine.

Common error

Confusing simile and metaphor.

Correct approach

A simile uses “like” or “as” (her eyes sparkled like diamonds). A metaphor says something IS something else (her eyes were diamonds).

Common error

Not quoting from the text.

Correct approach

Always include the exact words from the passage in quotation marks.

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Top Tips

  • Use the phrase “this suggests/creates/emphasises…” to explain the effect.
  • Simile = like/as comparison. Metaphor = direct comparison (is). Personification = human qualities given to non-human things.
  • Alliteration creates rhythm and emphasis. Onomatopoeia creates sound effects (crash, buzz, whisper).
  • Hyperbole is deliberate exaggeration for effect (e.g. “I have told you a million times”).

Ready to practise?

Put these techniques into action with our free practice papers.

Practise English Questions

Other English Techniques

Inference

Reading between the lines.

Descriptive Writing

Using techniques in your own writing.

Vocabulary in Context

Understanding word choices.
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