A favorite dictum of fiction writers is show, don’t tell. But what exactly does that mean?

I like to explain the difference like this: Telling is making a factual statement about someone or something. For example, Tessa was angry. 

Showing, however, is the fictional technique of revealing your character’s anger (or any other emotion) through her physical responses and actions. For example, Tessa clenched her fists. Every muscle in her body tensed as bile rose to her throat. 

Telling keeps your character flat. Showing brings her to life.

What are some techniques you use to show, not tell?
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