Effective ways include using internal monologues. The character can think about their past experiences and the reader gets to know them. Also, objects can be used to tell a back story. A locket that a character always wears could hold a story about a lost love. And thirdly, having other characters talk about the main character's past can also be effective.
One way is through dialogue. Characters can share bits of their past with each other. Another is flashbacks. This shows a direct look into the character's past. For example, in a movie, a sudden scene from the character's childhood can be a flashback.
One effective way is to use a character's reminiscing. For example, a character sitting by a fireplace might start thinking about a similar winter long ago, and this takes the story back in time. Another is through the discovery of a letter or a diary entry. If a character finds an old letter, it can lead to a story within a story, effectively transitioning to a different time or place. Also, weather changes can be used. A sudden storm might make a character remember a past storm and the events associated with it.
It's very important. Character back story gives depth and context. It helps readers understand why a character acts or thinks in a certain way. For example, if a character is overly cautious, a back story of past betrayals can explain it.
Her courage can be described. 'The girl showed great courage when facing the bully, standing up for what was right without a hint of fear.'
First, sincere apology is crucial. Admit your mistakes during the marriage clearly. Second, show real changes. For example, if you were lazy before, become more responsible and hard - working. Third, give her space and time. Don't push too hard but let her see your efforts gradually.
You could also begin a story by introducing a unique or strange object. For example, 'In the middle of the table, there was a small, glowing box. No one knew where it came from or what it was for.' This object becomes a focal point and the reader will be interested in finding out more about it and how it relates to the rest of the story.
Tell the story to someone else. This forces you to organize your thoughts and recall all the details. You might even discover parts that you didn't remember clearly before, and this process of retelling helps solidify the story in your memory.
One effective way is to end with a resolution. Tie up all the loose ends and give the characters a final state that satisfies the reader. For example, in a mystery story, the detective finally reveals who the culprit is and how they did it. Another way is to end with a cliffhanger, which leaves the reader wanting more. This can be used if you plan to write a sequel. Also, an emotional ending can be very effective. If it's a love story, perhaps the couple finally gets together after many obstacles, leaving the reader with a warm feeling.
You can end it with a powerful image. Say, a lone figure standing on a cliff as the sun sets, which can symbolize many things like new beginnings or solitude. It allows the reader to interpret it in their own way and gives a sense of finality.
You can use the character's inner thoughts to convey sadness. Let the reader peek into the character's mind. For example, 'He thought about all the things he had lost, and a heavy feeling settled in his chest. It was like a dark cloud that wouldn't go away, and he felt so alone in this world.' This shows the depth of the character's sadness through their own thoughts.
One way is to have a satisfying resolution where the main character achieves their goal. For example, if it's a story about a detective solving a case, the end could be the detective finally arresting the culprit and getting justice. This gives a sense of closure to the reader.