10 Ways to Write a Stronger Sentence

Strong writing in NAPLAN and Selective tests isn’t about big words. It’s about showing a picture instead of just telling. Here are 10 plain sentences, each made stronger — with the trick behind it.

1. Compare it to something

✗ It was big.

✓ It was as big as a football field, and as tall as a skyscraper.

2. Show the feeling — don't name it

✗ She was scared.

✓ Her hands shook, and she forgot how to breathe.

3. Choose a stronger verb

✗ He walked into the room.

✓ He marched into the room.

4. Name things exactly

✗ He ate his food.

✓ He wolfed down a still-warm sausage roll.

5. Add what you can hear or smell

✗ The kitchen was messy.

✓ The kitchen smelled of burnt toast, dishes stacked into a wobbling tower.

6. Start the sentence differently

✗ The wind was strong and it pushed the trees.

✓ Howling through the branches, the wind bent the trees sideways.

7. Cut the “very”s

✗ It was very, very cold.

✓ The cold bit at my fingers.

8. Slip in a short sentence

✗ He was nervous and couldn't sleep and checked the clock.

✓ He couldn't sleep. The clock taunted him.

9. Give objects life

✗ The old door made a noise.

✓ The old door groaned as it swung open.

10. Make dialogue do something

✗ “Look out!” she said.

✓ “Look out!” she yelled, yanking him back from the road.

One rule:don’t do all ten at once. Markers reward writing that’s clear first, vivid second — a few strong sentences beat a paragraph trying too hard.

The fastest way to improve is to write a little, often, and get feedback. Try PrepPath’s writing practice for AI feedback on your work, or NAPLAN practice across every test area.

PrepPath is an independent educational platform and is not affiliated with ACARA or the NSW Department of Education. This guide is general information only — always check the official ACARA (nap.edu.au) or NSW Department of Education websites for current dates and rules.

10 Ways to Write a Stronger Sentence

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