How to write in the first, second or third person

First, second and third person

There are three ways you can write a story. These are called the first, second and third person.

First person
When you write in the first person, you put yourself inside the writing by describing how you felt and what you were doing. Use 'I'.

I saw two messy monsters.

Second person
When writing in the second person, address the reader directly. This type of writing feels personal to the reader. Use 'you' and 'your'.

When you see a monster, you should tell them to tidy up.

Third person
When you are writing in the third person, the story is about other people. Not yourself or the reader. Use the character's name or pronouns such as 'he' or 'she'.

He sneakily crept up on them. Fudge the monster looked scared.

Watch: Writing in first, second and third person

Activity 1

Activity 2

Have a go at re-writing these sentences in the first person.

1. He loves to play with his fluffy teddy bear all day long.
2. Beatrice giggles when the colourful balloons float up to the sky.
3. They build sandcastles at the beach and collect shiny seashells.

Now have a go at rewriting these sentences in the third person.

1. I love playing with my toys all day.
2. My favourite thing ever is eating yummy ice cream.
3. When the sun shines, I go outside to run and jump!