So, what is Backloading exactly?
Simply put, backloading is using the most important word in your chapter, scene, paragraph, or sentence.
Backloading power words at the end of sentences and paragraphs give the readers a boost from one sentence to the next. Many authors will use this technique effectively at the end of chapters and between scenes.
You don’t want to backload every sentence.
Not every sentence lends itself to backloading.
Do not try to backload every sentence.
Do not try to backload every paragraph.
Do backload with a power word, when it fits.
When you are editing for backloading, you may realize you don’t need some of the sentences you thought you needed. Nix them. Try the paragraph without a sentence or two. Your work will be improved.
Why backload? Because it puts the psychological weight at the end of the sentence and propels the reader into the next sentence or paragraph or scene or chapter.
Backloading is the simplest editing technique. Once you start applying it, you’ll realize what a difference it can make.
Your readers will appreciate your skill with backloading when you indicate where they could backload their work. It’s an easy fix and one that is powerful.
I backloaded the above paragraph with the word POWERFUL.
I just opened a random novel on my bookshelf. The story is interesting, the characters are multi-dimensional, and it’s a slow read. The pacing is slow. The author will remain anonymous.
Here are the words at the end of each paragraph:
it, would, cold, look, legs, key, downstairs, ago, this, day, car, but, car, head, him, down, chair, glory, daffodil, want, turned, ragged, herself, car, his, again, you, you, there, others, again, it, way, yourself, him, too, here, else, it, say, herself, place, you, me, daughter.
Did you read every word?
If you glanced at that paragraph, please go back and read every word.
Thank you.
Hmm. That covered several pages.
You get the idea. This is from an author who must not know about backloading.
There are many factors that slow pacing. Backloading helps increase pacing.
I gave you (above) the list of last words the author chose.
The author could have backloaded at least ten (yes, I counted) last sentences of paragraphs by rearranging the words in their sentences.
Ten of those sentences already had great words in them, just not at the end of the sentences.
Here are the other words they could have used that were in those last sentences of paragraphs. They used these great words, just didn’t position them well in the sentence.
Look at these choices the author overlooked.
- Obsessing
- Violence
- Furious
- Slapped
- Self-absorbed
- Irritated
- Shock
- Fear
- Fierce
- Harsh
Each of the above words carries an emotional punch. Great that the author had those words in the last sentences of paragraphs. Not so great that they weren’t placed at the end of those sentences where they could do double duty.
Remember—this is an easy fix, and it makes a difference on a subconscious level.
The reader won’t consciously be aware that you’ve backloaded, they’ll just keep reading and think your writing is strong.
Remember: Backloading picks up pace. Backloading contributes to page-turning.
Again—you won’t be able to backload every sentence. But what if you backloaded 30% of your sentences? You’d pick up pace, big time. Always good.
If a backloaded sentence sounds clunky, or awkward, go back to the original, or a smooth rewrite. Provide the reader with a read that flows well.
Need editing or publishing help with your fiction story or memoir? I offer free consultation and personalized quotes. Let’s connect. Send me an email: griffinsmith74@gmail.com
