How to write fear

Atmosphere

Make the atmosphere mirror their fear.

EXAMPLE

As Jenna stumbled through the foggy field, each shadow whispered her name.

Show the physical reactions to fear.

EXAMPLE

Mark's palms were sweaty, and his heart raced like he had run a marathon.

Add silence and sudden sounds to amplify the fear.

EXAMPLE

A twig snapped behind her. Sara's blood froze.

Show the thoughts related to fear that they'd never say out loud.

EXAMPLE

Tom feared he was never loved -- that he was as forgettable as a whisper in a storm.

Give a specific reason for the fear.

EXAMPLE

Ever since the accident, the sight of water made Sarah's lungs feel like they were filling up.

Use everyday situations to show the character's fear and its effect on them.

EXAMPLE

A simple children’s birthday balloon popped and triggered her PTSD from a gunshot.

Gradually increase the fear's intensity.

EXAMPLE

With every step down the black hallway, shadows crept closer -- tightening around James like a noose.

Show how different characters react differently to the same situations.

EXAMPLE

Jack charged ahead into the haunted house, eager for adventure. Clara hung back because she feared the dark.

Link the fear to past and present situations.

EXAMPLE

Whenever Emma was in a high location, the time she fell from her roof flashed in her mind.

Show how they try to hide their fear through humor, anger, or detachment.

EXAMPLE

Despite his heart racing at the sight of the spider, Alex forced a laugh, joking about his "spider friends" to mask his terror.