5 Best Short Story Pacing Tips

The Ultimate Guide For Short Story Pacing Tips

In this article we breakdown short story pacing so you understand its role, the importance of pacing  and how to avoid common pitfalls that could leave your story floundering.

Understanding Short Story Pacing

Short story pacing is the heartbeat of your story. Get it right, and readers will be breathless, flipping pages in a frenzy. Get it wrong, and they’ll wander off, perhaps never to return. In short story pacing it is even more critical because you have limited space to hook your readers. So, how do you achieve the right pacing?

First off, you need to keep things moving. Every sentence should propel the story forward. Use action verbs and active voice. Short sentences create a sense of urgency and excitement. Like this. See? It grabs you. But be careful; don’t overdo it. Mix it up with longer sentences to give your readers a breather.

Another trick is to focus on dialogue. Dialogue can speed up your story and give it a more dynamic feel. Snappy conversations can reveal character traits and plot points without bogging down your narrative. Imagine a tense conversation between two characters; it’s way more engaging than a long-winded description.

The Role of Detail in Short Stories

While pacing gives your story momentum, details provide depth. But in short stories, you have to be judicious about what you include. Too many details, and you might lose your readers in a sea of descriptions. Too few, and the story might feel hollow.

The trick is to find details that do double duty. A single sentence can set the scene, show a character’s personality, and hint at backstory. For example, “Her desk, cluttered with unopened letters and half-empty coffee cups, told me all I needed to know about her chaotic life.” In just a few words, you get a strong visual and a sense of the character’s state of mind.

Always aim for specifics rather than generalities. Instead of saying, “It was a nice day,” you could write, “The sun was a bright penny in the sky, and a gentle breeze ruffled the leaves.” Specific details make your story more vivid and memorable.

Balancing Act: Pacing vs. Detail

So, how do you balance short story pacing and detail? It’s a bit like walking a tightrope. On one side, you have the need for speed and excitement, and on the other, the need for depth and clarity. The key is to make every word count.

Start by writing your story with a focus on pacing. Get the bones down first. Then, go back and layer in the details. Ask yourself whether each detail adds to the story or just fills space. Cut anything that doesn’t serve a purpose.

For example, in a fast-paced action scene, you don’t need to describe the wallpaper. But in a quiet, introspective moment, those little details can add a lot of flavour. Consider the rhythm of your story as well. Fast scenes followed by slower ones create a natural ebb and flow that keeps readers engaged.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

One common trap is getting too attached to your research. If you’ve spent hours learning about Victorian-era train schedules, it can be tempting to include every little fact, but resist the urge. Only include details that serve the story. Your research is like the scaffolding of a building; it’s crucial during construction but should disappear in the finished product.

Another pitfall is the info-dump. Loading your readers with too much backstory all at once can kill the pacing. Instead, dribble information like breadcrumbs throughout the narrative. This keeps readers curious and engaged. Think of it like seasoning; a sprinkle here and there enhances the flavour, but too much overwhelms the dish.

Practical Tips for Balancing Short Story Pacing Pacing and Detail

1. **Use Dialogue Wisely:** Dialogue can speed up a story and provide needed information without long descriptions.

2. **Show, Don’t Tell:** Instead of telling the reader a character is nervous, show their trembling hands and shifting eyes. This adds detail without slowing the pace.

3. **Cut the Fluff:** Be ruthless in editing. If a sentence or detail doesn’t pull its weight, it’s got to go.

4. **Mix Sentence Lengths:** Short sentences add tension, while longer ones give readers time to catch their breath.

5. **Use Active Voice:** Active voice is more engaging and moves the story along faster than passive voice.

Final Thoughts

Balancing pacing and detail in short story writing is a delicate dance. But with a little practice and a lot of editing, you can master it. Remember, every story is unique, and finding the right balance might take some trial and error. Don’t get discouraged if your first drafts aren’t perfect.

Your goal is to write stories that are impossible to put down; to create characters and worlds that leap off the page. Keep writing, keep editing, and before you know it, you’ll find that perfect balance that keeps readers hooked from the first word to the last.

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Where to Find Inspiration for Your Short Stories

What Famous Authors Don’t Tell You About Finding Short Story Inspiration!

Feeling stuck on your short story inspiration? Fear not. We have you overed here.

Look Within Your Everyday Life

You’ve got to be kidding if you believe inspiration is found only in exotic locations or dramatic events. Sometimes, the best ideas are lurking in the mundane routines of daily life. Take a peek at your surroundings. Observe people in your neighbourhood; imagine their backstories. Look at everyday objects—your old mailbox, a withering plant in the garden, the errant sock under the bed. Each can spark an intriguing story.

Tune into Conversations

Head to a local café, park, or even an office break room and simply eavesdrop. Conversations are goldmines for short story ideas. Listen to snippets of dialogue, the cadence of speech, unexpected turns of phrase. You’d be surprised how one line can spring into a full-fledged narrative. Just don’t get caught! You’re harvesting inspiration, not indulging in espionage.

Embrace Your Emotions

Feeling a bit blue? Or maybe you’re over the moon with joy? Emotions can serve as powerful catalysts for creativity. Authors have turned their deepest fears, wildest dreams, and most fervent loves into the cornerstone of some of the most riveting short stories. Your emotional landscape is as varied as a kaleidoscope, offering endless story possibilities.

Dive into Books and Films

Ever read a book or watched a film and thought, “I wish this story had gone a different way”? Use that dissatisfaction as a springboard. Reimagine the plot, twist the ending, insert a new character. Don’t shy away from genres you’re not familiar with. Take the plunge into sci-fi, historical fiction, or even a bit of romantic drivel. Each genre has its unique charm and a myriad of story ideas waiting to be explored.

Escape into Nature

Nothing sparks creativity quite like a brisk walk or a ramble through the bush. Nature’s tranquillity allows your mind to wander freely, unburdened by the cacophony of daily life. Listen to the birds, taste the crisp air, watch how sunlight filters through the trees. These sensory experiences can jolt your creativity in unexpected ways.

Reflect on Your Past

Your life has been a series of unfolding stories. Some are barely worth a mention, while others are ripe for narration. Think about that ill-fated family vacation, the time you got lost in a new city, or even a seemingly banal childhood memory. Transform these personal tales into gripping short stories.

Explore Prompts and Exercises

Writer’s block hitting hard? Break the ice with writing prompts and exercises. Websites, writing communities, and even books are teeming with prompts that can trigger bursts of creativity. Whether it’s “write about a haunted house with a twist” or “craft a tale set in a dystopian future,” these prompts are your creative defibrillators.

Use Dreams as Fuel

Ever woken up from a bizarre dream and thought, “That was wild”? Jot it down before it dissolves. Dreams can be strange, fragmented, and surreal—perfect fodder for short stories. They provide an unfiltered insight into your subconscious, presenting stories that your waking mind could never conjure.

Engage with Art and Music

Sometimes, a powerful painting or an evocative piece of music can transport you to a different realm. Visit art galleries, music concerts, or even just browse online. The aura of a piece of art or the mood of a song can light up your imagination. What stories lie hidden in a sombre tune or behind a vibrant painting?

Tap into News and History

The world is a bizarre, complex place. Current events, historical accounts, or even quirky news stories can serve as a breeding ground for your short story ideas. Twist these real-world inspirations into fictional tales. The intrigue of a political scandal or the romance of ancient battles can pump rich narrative veins into your stories.

Keep a Notebook Handy

Ideas are fickle, flighty creatures. They often pop up at the most inconvenient times—while you’re grocery shopping, in the middle of a meeting, or even at 3 AM. Keep a small notebook or your phone’s notes app ready to capture these ephemeral thoughts before they slip away. Jot down everything; no idea is too insignificant.

Join Writing Communities

Join a writing community, attend workshops, or participate in local writer meet-ups. Engaging with fellow writers provides not only camaraderie but also a wellspring of fresh perspectives. Share ideas, critique stories, and discover new sources of inspiration.

Ask “What If?”

This simple question can unlock myriad possibilities. What if the sun never rose again? What if animals could talk? What if today was someone’s last day on Earth? Let your imagination run wild with these scenario-based questions. They can lead you down unexplored paths, each packed with potential stories.

Turn to Technology

In this digital age, technology is an abundant source of inspiration. Think about the implications of AI and robotics, virtual realities, or even social media culture. How does tech redefine human experiences? Opportunities for speculative fiction are endless, but don’t forget to ground them in human emotions and conflicts.

Trust Your Instincts

Finally, trust yourself. You’ve got a unique perspective that no one else can replicate. If an idea excites you, chase it. If it makes you laugh or cry, nurture it. Your instincts are your best guide to finding and developing compelling short stories.

Happy writing! And remember, even the most trivial seed can bloom into a breathtaking short story. Keep your eyes and ears open, and the world will provide endless inspiration.

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Understanding the Short Story Market on Kindle

Introduction to Kindle Short Stories

Ah, the Kindle. This little gadget has revolutionised the way we consume books. But let’s talk about something specific: short stories. If you’ve ever found yourself lost in a gripping tale on your Kindle, you’re not alone. Short stories have found a snug little niche on this platform, but why is that, and how can authors tap into this market?

The Popularity Surge: A Tale of Convenience

Before we jump the gun, let’s understand the Kindle short story craze. People lead busy lives. Between juggling work, family, and downtime, who’s got the time to dive into a novel the size of “War and Peace”? Enter the short story—bite-sized literary snacks perfect for our fast-paced world.

Think about it. You’re on your daily commute, sipping a flat white, and you’ve got 15 minutes to kill. A short story is the perfect companion. It’s like speed dating with literature. No long-term commitment needed; just pure, quick narrative bliss.

The Kindle Advantage

Let’s talk shop. Kindle offers a unique (there, I said it) platform for short stories. It’s accessible, user-friendly, and integrated into the Amazon ecosystem. For authors, this means an instant audience and a seamless publishing process. You can upload, publish, and sell your story quicker than you can say “Kindle Direct Publishing”—a writer’s dream.

Readers love it too. With features like Kindle Unlimited, they can binge-read a smorgasbord of short reads without breaking the bank. The subscription model makes readers more likely to take a chance on new authors. A win-win for everyone involved.

Understanding Reader Preferences

Those who devour short stories often look for certain elements. Fast-paced plots, compelling characters, and punchy endings. Your job as an author? Deliver on these fronts consistently. Remember, short stories should be like a good espresso—strong, quick, and leaving a lingering effect.

Readers gravitate towards genres like mystery, thriller, and romance. But don’t pigeonhole yourself. Science fiction, fantasy, and even non-fiction short stories have their place under the Kindle sun. The key is to engage readers quickly and keep them hooked.

What Makes a Short Story Sell?

The million-dollar question. What makes a short story fly off the digital shelves? Here’s a nugget of wisdom: originality is your best friend. While common themes are okay, your voice needs to be distinct. Think about your favourite short story. Chances are, it had a unique twist or an unforgettable character.

Cover design matters too. We all judge books by their covers, don’t we? Make sure yours stands out in a sea of thumbnails. A catchy title goes a long way as well. You need to pique interest in mere seconds.

Navigating Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP)

Alright, you’ve got your masterpiece ready. Now what? Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) is your best bet. It’s straightforward and user-friendly. Upload your manuscript, choose your pricing, and voila! Your short story is available to millions of readers.

But let’s get real. Just publishing isn’t enough. You need to market your story. Utilize social media, create an author website, and engage with your audience. Reader reviews are gold. Encourage your readers to leave feedback. Positive reviews push your work up the Amazon ranks.

The Role of Kindle Short Reads

Have you explored the Kindle Short Reads category? If not, you should. This dedicated section categorises short stories by reading time. From 15-minute reads to two-hour tales, it offers a smorgasbord of choices for the time-crunched reader.

For authors, this categorisation is a godsend. It helps you target your audience more effectively. Know the length of your story? Market it as such. It also encourages binge-reading. Once a reader finishes your story, they’re likely to click on another recommendation.

Building a Fan Base

Consistency is critical. Keep your readers engaged by regularly releasing new content. Short stories make this easier compared to full-length novels. Think of it as feeding a hungry crowd. The more you provide, the more they’ll come back.

Interacting with your readers is another plus. Reply to comments, engage on social media, maybe even host a virtual Q&A session. Building a loyal fan base doesn’t happen overnight, but the effort pays off in the long run.

Conclusion

Understanding the short story market on Kindle can be your ticket to becoming a successful author. It’s a dynamic, reader-friendly platform that caters to modern reading habits. Focus on quality, engage your readers, and who knows? Maybe your short story will be the next big thing.

Remember, the Kindle short story market is like a fast-paced dance. Keep your moves sharp, your rhythm catchy, and your audience will keep coming back for more. Happy writing!

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The Benefits of Writing Short Stories for Authors

The Benefits of Writing Short Stories for Authors

The benefits of writing short stories for authors can be enormous from my own experience. In this article we’ll discuss these benefits that help authors have a long writing career.

Unlocking Creativity

Writing short stories can be like discovering a new way to dance – it’s freeing, exhilarating, and just a bit wild. Authors often find their creative juices flowing more freely when they have a limited canvas. The constraints of a short story – often fewer than 20,000 words – force writers to be succinct and sharp. You cut out the fluff and get straight to the point. Think Hemingway’s iceberg theory: what is left unsaid can be just as powerful as the words on the page.

Building Discipline

Short story writing helps budding authors develop discipline. Let’s face it, it’s easy to get lost in a sprawling novel, but a short story demands focus. You craft with precision, tying off every thread in a tidy bow. This practice hones your ability to stick to deadlines and write regularly. It’s like training for a marathon by running sprints. Over time, you’ll find that your productivity and discipline improve, making the leap to longer works much smoother.

Quick Feedback Loop

One of the greatest perks of short story writing is the immediate feedback loop. Unlike novels, which can take years to complete, short stories can be written, edited, and published in a fraction of the time. This allows you to get feedback from readers quickly, learn what works, and refine your craft. It’s like having a mini focus group every time you hit publish. Your understanding of reader preferences deepens, and your adaptability as an author improves.

Gaining Exposure a Big Benefit For Writing Short Stories For Authors

Publishing short stories can significantly boost your visibility as an author. Platforms like Kindle Short Reads and literary magazines are always on the lookout for fresh content. Getting published here can help you build an audience and gain some traction. Remember that detective series I mentioned? That was my breakthrough. It all started with a few curious readers, and suddenly, I was topping charts. You never know when your next short story could catch fire.

Experimentation Without Commitment

Short stories give authors the freedom to experiment without the hefty commitment of a full-length novel. Whether it’s dipping your toes into a new genre, trying out different narrative techniques, or building quirky characters, short stories are the perfect playground. It’s a bit like dating around before settling down. You get to know your strengths and weaknesses better, improving your versatility as a writer.

Mastering the Art of The Hook

Because short stories require you to grab your reader’s attention quickly, they challenge you to master the art of the hook. Think of it like speed dating – you’ve got only a few moments to make an impression. This skill is invaluable, even beyond short stories. A captivating beginning can be the difference between a bestseller and a forgotten book languishing on the digital shelves.

Earning Income Faster

Let me share a quick tidbit from my journey. There were months when my royalties could hardly buy a coffee. But then, there were times I could hardly believe my eyes as my income exploded. Why? Short stories got me there faster. They’re quicker to produce and, if timed well or written excellently, they can catch on like wildfire. Plus, a series of short stories can build into a compelling collection, providing multiple streams of income.

Sharpening Your Writing Skills

Short stories demand sharp, concise writing. There’s no room for long-winded explanations or meandering plots. You need clarity and precision, trimming the fat and keeping the essence. Think of it as sharpening a knife. When you come back to longer works, you’ll find your prose tighter, your dialogue more impactful, and your pacing impeccable.

Connecting with Readers is a Huge Benefit For Writing Short Stories For Authors

In the fast-paced digital age, readers often seek quick, entertaining reads. Short stories cater perfectly to this demand. Writing short stories allows you to connect with readers who may not have the time for longer novels but hunger for captivating tales. You feed their need for fast-paced, impossible-to-put-down reads. And in doing so, you build a loyal readership that can follow you as you grow as an author.

Showcasing Your Style

Short stories are wonderful showcases of your unique voice and style is a great benefit for writing short stories for authors. They highlight your strengths and make your work memorable. You have limited words to make an impact, so every sentence must count. It’s your chance to show readers and publishers alike what you’re capable of, creating a lasting impression with your distinct flair.

The Joy of Completion

We all crave that sweet moment of completion, the satisfaction of a job well done. Writing and finishing a short story brings a sense of accomplishment and boosts your confidence as a writer. It’s like crossing mini finish lines that prepare you for the marathon of novel writing. You build momentum and develop a habit of finishing what you start.

So, dear author, take the plunge into the world of short stories. You’ll find it’s a game-changer, offering everything from honing your skills to bolstering your income. And who knows? Your next short story could be the stepping stone to your bestseller dream. Give it a whirl – you might just surprise yourself.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing Short Stories

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing Short Stories

Forgetting the Hook

Ever tried picking up a book and putting it down after the first page because it didn’t reel you in? It happens more often than you’d think. The first sentences of your short story are crucial. They set the tone, build curiosity, and grab the reader’s attention. If your opener is bland, you’re inviting your reader to hit the snooze button. Don’t let that happen. Make it intriguing.

Overloading with Characters

You’ve got a fantastic universe in your head, full of colourful characters. But here’s the catch: your reader might not have time or energy to track every single one. In short stories, less is often more. Stick to a few characters you can develop thoroughly. Each one should have a clear role and stick to it.

Lack of Clear Focus

Ever been lost in the plot of a short story? It’s like wandering in a maze without a map. Your story needs a clear direction or theme. If your narrative meanders, readers will lose interest. Stay on course, and make sure every scene, every conversation, and every detail drives the story forward.

Poor Dialogue

Dialogues can make or break a story. Forced, unnatural conversations are a huge turn-off. Imagine eavesdropping on two people talking in a coffee shop—that’s the kind of natural flow you want. Aim for authenticity. If a character wouldn’t say something in real life, they shouldn’t say it in your story.

Ignoring the Ending

Ever been on a rollercoaster only to find the final drop doesn’t exist? That’s what an unsatisfactory ending feels like. Your ending needs to be as powerful as the beginning. It should tie up loose ends, offer resolution, or leave an impact. The aim is to leave your reader thinking, “Wow, I didn’t see that coming,” not, “Is that it?” You want them to linger on your story long after they’ve finished reading.

Overcomplicating Descriptions

Paint your scenes vividly, but don’t go overboard. Describing every single detail can bog down your pace. You don’t need to describe every leaf on a tree when it’s only there to set a mood. Use specific, evocative descriptions that add to the story without overwhelming it.

Overuse of Adverbs

Adverbs can be useful tools, but overuse can make your writing lazy. Rely on strong, dynamic verbs to carry the weight. Instead of saying, “She walked quickly,” go for “She rushed” or “She hurried.” Your writing will feel more vigorous and immediate.

Forgetting to Edit

First drafts are rarely perfect. Even seasoned writers know the importance of revision. After you finish your story, put it aside for a while. Then come back with fresh eyes. Look for inconsistencies, tighten your prose, and nix any unnecessary fluff. Don’t just rely on your spell checker; read it out loud to catch awkward phrasing and errors you might miss on screen.

Ignoring Feedback

Let’s be honest, no one likes criticism. But feedback is gold for writers. Share your drafts with friends, fellow writers, or writing groups. Listen to their suggestions and be open to revisions. Often, they’ll point out things you never noticed. Just remember, you don’t have to accept all feedback, but considering it can make your story stronger.

Writing for Everyone

Writing a story that appeals to everyone is like casting a fishing net in a desert. Know your audience and write for them. Not everyone will love your story, and that’s okay. Focus on engaging your target readers, and they’ll be your biggest fans.

Conclusion Thoughts

Writing short stories is an art that blends creativity with discipline. Avoiding these common pitfalls can drastically improve your storytelling. Remember, it’s not about being perfect on the first go. It’s about refining, honing, and moulding your story into something that captivates and entertains. So go ahead, break a few eggs, make an omelette, and keep your readers coming back for more. G’day, mate!

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Short Story vs Novella

Short Story vs. Novella – The Comparison Guide [2023]

Writing a successful story requires planning and creativity. Whether you’re writing a short story, or venturing into the world of novella writing, your story has to have purpose.

It needs to grab your readers’ attention with detail and character development while adhering to specific guidelines based on length.

To get started, authors and writers alike need to understand the distinction between short stories and novellas to create an engrossing narrative that engages audiences of all ages. So let’s explore the differences between these two genres so you can determine which direction is right for you!

Exploring Their Unique Narratives and Impact

In the vast landscape of literature, writers have always found innovative ways to convey their stories and captivate readers.

Two such compelling forms of fiction are a short story and novella. Both share similarities, but they differ significantly in length, structure, and storytelling possibilities.

In this article, we will delve into the essence of a short story and novella, exploring how they are crafted, the advantages of longer novellas, and when to employ shorter short stories to achieve the desired effect.

1. Understanding A Short Story and Novella

Short Story

A short story is a concise, self-contained narrative that typically revolves around a single character, event, or theme.

Unlike novels, short stories aim to deliver a powerful impact with limited words, making every sentence count.

The essence of a short story lies in its brevity, often ranging from 1,000 to 7,500 words.

Within this concise space, authors must skillfully craft character development, setting, conflict, and resolution to create a memorable experience for the reader.

Novella

Novellas, on the other hand, occupy the literary space between short stories and novels.

While there is no strict word count to define a novella, they generally span between 20,000 to 50,000 words.

This extended length allows authors to delve deeper into character backgrounds, explore complex plotlines, and develop more intricate settings.

Novellas offer authors a chance to create a more nuanced and elaborate narrative without the commitment required for a full-length novel.

2. How to Write A Short Story and Novella

Writing A Short Story

To craft a compelling short story, authors must focus on economy of language while maintaining emotional depth.

Every word must serve a purpose, and extraneous elements should be trimmed. A strong opening is crucial to grab the reader’s attention immediately, and concise character development should follow.

Effective dialogue and well-paced action are essential elements in creating a vibrant short story. The resolution should leave a lasting impact, prompting readers to reflect on the themes and messages conveyed in the tale.

Writing A Novella

When writing a novella, authors have more space to explore complex characters, intricate plotlines, and multi-layered themes.

While the pacing can be slower compared to short stories, it should still maintain a sense of purpose and avoid unnecessary detours.

Novellas afford authors the freedom to delve deeper into character psychology, provide more detailed descriptions of settings, and build tension gradually.

Nevertheless, the art of restraint remains essential even in longer works to maintain a captivating narrative flow.

3. The Advantages of A Longer Novella

Room for Depth

The extended word count of novellas allows authors to develop more complex characters and explore their motivations and emotions in greater depth. This added dimension can create a more profound emotional connection between the characters and the readers.

Nuanced Plotlines

With more space to unfold the plot, novellas can accommodate intricate story arcs and subplots.

This enables authors to engage readers with a captivating storyline that is neither rushed nor underdeveloped.

Exploring Themes

Novellas provide ample opportunity to delve into profound themes and explore their various facets.

Authors can use the extra length to subtly weave in underlying messages and provoke thoughtfulness in readers.

Short Time Commitment

For readers seeking a satisfying reading experience without investing the time required for a full-length novel, novellas offer a perfect solution.

They can be consumed in a single sitting, making them ideal for busy individuals or those looking for a quick literary escape.

4. When to Use A Shorter Short Story

Impactful Themes

When a story revolves around a single, powerful idea, a short story can deliver the message effectively.

The brevity allows for a focused exploration of the theme, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

Experimental Narratives

Short stories provide an excellent platform for writers to experiment with unconventional narrative techniques.

Writers can play with structure, point of view, and other literary elements, pushing the boundaries of storytelling.

Limited Space for Exploration

Certain ideas are better suited for short stories due to their limited scope.

Attempting to stretch these ideas into a novella might dilute their impact, making short stories the better choice for concise, impactful storytelling.

Time Constraints

Writers may opt for short stories when they have limited time to dedicate to a more extended project.

Short stories allow them to practice their craft, experiment with new ideas, and complete projects more quickly.

Conclusion

A Short story and novella offer distinct advantages and serve different purposes in the world of fiction writing.

While short stories excel at impactful storytelling with limited words, novellas provide the space for more extensive character development, plot complexity, and thematic exploration.

Aspiring writers should experiment with both forms to discover their unique strengths and develop their skills in crafting captivating narratives.

Ultimately, whether it’s the brevity of a short story or the depth of a novella, each has the power to leave a lasting impression on readers and enrich the literary world with its distinct offerings.

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Short Stories Prompts

How To Use Short Stories Prompts For Better Short Stories

Short stories prompts are a great way to get your creative juices flowing. They also serve as an excellent form of entertainment when you need it!

What are short stories prompts?

Short story writing prompts are just what they sound like: a set of random words or phrases that encourage you to write a short story. Prompts can be anything:

– One liner ideas (e.g., I woke up with blood on my hands)

– Descriptions (e.g., old manor house, abandoned asylum)

What is the purpose of a short story writing prompt?

Short story writing prompts are a great way to deal with writer’s block or even just to relax and have some fun! It can be tough sometimes to come up with fresh and interesting ideas for stories. These short story writing prompts can help you find inspiration and get your creative juices flowing.

Short stories are also a good way to practice your craft. They allow you to experiment with characters, settings, and storylines without investing too much time. And once you’ve written a few stories, it becomes easier to come up with new ideas for your next one.

What should I do if someone steals my short stories prompt?

If someone has already used the prompt that you want to use, do not despair! You can always take the prompt in a different direction. For example, if you see someone has already written a story about an abandoned asylum, do not decide to write about an old manor house just because that was your original idea.

You don’t have to credit or mention anyone else’s work when using prompts. Everyone is here to write their own stories and share them with the world.

If you still think that somebody has stolen your prompt, please let us know about it by sending an e-mail to admin@shortstoryprompts.org . We can remove any prompt if we suspect plagiarism.

Remember, creativity is the hallmark of a good writer!

The best way to create short stories prompts

to just take a pen and paper and jot down whatever comes to your mind. These can be anything: random words, phrases, sentences, lyrics from songs you like or memorable quotes from your favorite books. You could even use prompts that other people have come up with!

Creativity is the key, so don’t worry about coming up with the most original prompts. Just relax, have fun, and enjoy yourself.

How to get started with short stories prompts

Here is a list of 10 short story prompts that will give you some ideas for what to write about:

1) What if the world was overrun by zombies?

2) Write about the last conversation with your best friend before they died.

3) Write about two people who find themselves in love but their relationship is doomed from the start.

4) Describe one day in the life of someone living in poverty.

5) What would happen if all books were banned and no one could read them anymore?

6) Write about how your town changed after 9-11.

7) A man goes on vacation without his family on his birthday for the first time in 15 years.

8) Describe what happens when an alien visits Earth on a reconnaissance mission.

9) Write about one day of your life where everything goes wrong.

10) Imagine you are living in Ancient Greece and write about how you feel about being a slave or a master.

How do I write a short story with these prompts?

After you’ve decided on one or more short stories prompts that you want to use, the next step is writing your story. The best way to go about this is to just take it one word at a time and let the words and characters come to you naturally.

To create a story around one of these prompts, there are no hard and fast rules. You might want to begin by asking yourself some questions about your narrator or protagonist:

– Who is he/she?

– Where does he/she live?

– What is the conflict in this story?

– How does he/she feel about it?

– What is at stake?

Once you’ve established some basic facts about your character and his/her circumstances, just let the story take its course. It may help to write a rough outline of events before you begin writing, but don’t get too bogged down in details. Just write and see where the story takes you.

When writing a short story, what makes it good? There are many components that make up a good short story, but here are some of the most important ones:

– Unique characters with interesting quirks.

– A unique setting.

– Intriguing dialogue that reveals the attitudes and personalities of your characters.

– Succinct writing that illuminates the story but does not bore or distract your readers with too many details.

What are the best ways to write a short story?

The best way to write a short story is to let the words flow naturally. Don’t overthink your story or try to control every word that you write. Let the ideas come to you instead of trying to force them out.

Here are some other best practices for writing short stories:

– Start with a compelling image, line of dialogue, or premise. This will give readers something interesting to latch onto.

– Be prepared to make some changes if the story does not seem to be working out. This may involve completely revising your story, or simply cutting certain parts of it, depending on what is needed to make your narrative stronger.

– You can also experiment with different types of short stories , such as sci fi short stories, literary short stories, mystery short stories, etc.

– At the end of your story, you can also choose to leave it open ended if that feels right for what you’re writing. This means that there is no single perfect conclusion or solution to the problem in your story. It’s up to readers to decide what happens next and make their own inferences.

– Edit your short stories until you’re satisfied with them. Read through them out loud so that you can catch any grammatical errors or awkward sentences.

Do I need to write dialogue in a short story?

You can choose to include or exclude dialogue depending on what works for your narrative. If the story would flow better without it, you can avoid dialogue altogether.

If you do choose to include dialogue, there are a few best practices that you should keep in mind:

– Dialogue should never be used as an information dump — where the characters just talk and talk about things that we really don’t care about. Every line of dialogue should either reveal something new and interesting about your characters or move the story forward.

– Each character should have a unique voice and personality, which will be revealed through their dialogue.

– Keep your dialogue as concise as possible. This will make it easier for readers to process and also help them feel the rapid pace of conversation.

Does every short story need a protagonist?

Some short stories, such as flash fiction pieces, may not have a protagonist (or any real characters at all). However, the majority of short stories do indeed feature protagonists.

What makes a good protagonist? Your protagonist should be relatable and interesting enough to keep readers’ attention throughout your story. Although they don’t need to be likeable or perfect, readers should understand and sympathize with your protagonist in some way.

Some other qualities that you might want to include in your protagonist:

– A conflict of some type

– An internal or external goal

– A flaw or problem that they need to overcome

How do I choose the point of view for my short story? The point of view is the perspective in which you’re telling your story, such as first person or third person. It’s up to you to decide what works best for you and your narrative, but here are a few things that may help:

– First person point of view involves “I” and can make a short story feel more intimate and personal. It can also be more difficult to pull off well since you need to get into the head of one character.

– Third person point of view lets you show multiple characters’ actions and thoughts, but it’s often less personal than first person. This may work better for longer short stories with more characters involved.

– Omniscient third person is a great choice if you have a larger cast of characters who all need to be fleshed out. It can also help in stories that require a lot of world-building.

– If you’re not sure what point of view to use, try writing your short story in multiple perspectives and then choosing the one that feels most organic and natural for your narrative.

How long should a short story be?

This is completely subjective and will vary from writer to writer. How many words you use is up to you, although you can always try checking your word count by pasting your text into  quick word counter.

 Conclusion 

Your story is unique. It deserves to be told. We’ll help you write it with our short story prompts and writing exercises for kids, teens, or adults that will get your creative juices flowing! Come on in and explore the world of imaginative storytelling today.

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Short Stories Ideas

Short Stories Ideas

If you are looking for short story ideas, this blog post will give you some inspiration. We have compiled a list of short stories with different themes that may appeal to your tastes. Find the perfect one for your next reading adventure!

Let’s dive deeper into what short stories ideas are out there.

Ideas for short stories 

Short Stories About Your Life

Have you ever thought about writing your life story but felt daunted by the task?  Think about those pivotal moments in your life that have changed you as a person and how they shaped you into the person you are today. You can wrote these into a series of short stories or one full blown book, it’s up to you!

I’m sure there are a few things you’ve gone through in your life that would make for an interesting read.

Think back to when you were a child and the funny, quirky things only children do. When I think about it, I have so many memories that I wish I could relive just one more time.

I remember my first day of school, the first time I rode a bike all by myself and how terrified I was at the prospect of going to high school.

Thinking about these moments is bringing back so many memories that honestly, I’d love to have them written down for me to look back on again in years to come.

Short Stories On Your Favorite Topics

There are some topics out there that have been written about so often, you may struggle to come up with enough new ideas to write a short story.

Instead of trying something completely different, why not think about writing a short story based on an idea that has already been done?

Let’s say that your favorite topic is cats, get out some pencils or open up your word processing program and start writing.

Don’t be afraid to abandon the story if something better comes along while you’re writing it. If you can come up with new ideas on what might happen next, great! Write them down and save them for later drafts. I

f not, don’t worry about it and just go with what comes naturally.

 Short Stories Under 500 Words

Writing a short story doesn’t have to be long and winded like the great classics of literature such as War and Peace, Moby Dick or The Hunchback of Notre Dame (all super long books that I have no intention of reading).

There are actually competitions out there that only accept stories under 500 words. Why not take a chance on creating something unique in just a few words? You can do it!

 Short Stories With A Twist Ending

One popular type of short story is the twist ending. You should try to come up with a twist ending so mind bending that your readers won’t see it coming from a mile away.

It should leave them feeling as though you have cheated them out of an opportunity to solve the mystery themselves.

A good twist ending should leave the reader thinking about why they didn’t work it out beforehand and hopefully questioning what they think is true.

 Short Stories On Your Favorite Place Or Destination

If you live in the middle of nowhere, your favorite place might be at home because everywhere you go is like your favorite place.

I’m moving to Cabarita Beach this month and my favorite destination thus far has been Bangalow, NSW.

What’s yours?

Writing a story based on your favorite place should be easy because you know it so well. Make sure you include every little detail that makes this place unique to you or else your readers may think it’s not your favorite place at all.

Still need more ideas? Here’s more short stories ideas generator

Short Stories About Food

Food is a popular topic in literature and, as such, it’s no wonder that many writers have tried their hand at writing stories about food.

Just think about some of your favorite foods and let your imagination run wild! If you’re feeling stuck, why not try writing a story from the point of view of a food item?

You can make it humorous or heartfelt – either way should be interesting to read.

 Short Stories Based On A Song Lyrics

I used to work at an Italian restaurant where my coworker would always use song lyrics as topics of conversation while we were serving our customers. I noticed that people would stop and listen to her whenever she wanted to share a lyric but as soon as she finished saying what she had to say, they would walk away again.

This seemed like something that could be turned into a short story so I started jotting down song lyrics about love lost and found. Just be careful about copyright laws though.

 Short Stories Based On Childhood Memories

If you’re struggling to come up with an idea, why not try writing a story based on your memories of childhood?

Think about some of the things that happened during your youth and let them inspire you to write something new.

You could even use fictional characters in these real life events if you wanted to or create some entirely new event. Anything goes!

Short Stories About The World We Live In

The world is filled with many mysteries, but the biggest mystery of all (at least to me) is how people can see the earth as a tiny ball spinning through space when you are standing on it!

This would be an interesting topic for anyone who loves science fiction or just wants to have some fun with their imagination.

Stories About The Objects We Use Everyday

I’ve always thought that my wallet was like a miniature city in itself because of all the compartments and pockets within it.

There’s one pocket for my credit cards, another for my business cards, one for my notes, one for my coins  and so on. Each of these items had their own story to tell if we could just open them up and listen!

You can do the same with any object that you use every day – your keys, glasses or even refrigerator magnets.

Short Stories About Love And Romance

If you’re feeling a little sappy, why not try writing a story about love and romance? It doesn’t have to be traditional in any way. You can write from your point of view or that of your favorite fictional character; you can write something new or create something based on an existing idea (such as Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet”).

 Short Stories On The Things That Scare You

Everyone has something that scares them – haunted houses, the dark…even social situations sometimes. Think of what terrifies you the most and try to work it into a short story or perhaps even a novel! You can take inspiration from other stories if you want – perhaps your idea will be the next great horror story.

 Short Stories About The Innocence Of Childhood

A child’s mind is something that needs to be protected because it is so young and pure, but it can also inspire some great stories. For example, you could write about the innocence of childhood with your own characters or by writing a story from the point of view of one of your favorite fictional children.

Short Stories About The Power Of Imagination

Have you ever been so wrapped up in a book that the character’s adventures seemed to come alive? I’m sure we’ve all experienced this at some point and it would be fun to write about something similar!

You could even include other elements from your life or just have a little fun with your imagination. Just imagine what you could write about!

Short Stories About The Things We Lost As Adults

The world is a harsh place and as we grow older, we lose things as well as gain new ones – old friends who move away or die, relationships that end and sometimes we even lose hope or faith in something we once believed in.

You can write about these losses and introduce new characters to find hope again (or perhaps show how they’ve changed due to this). Short stories ideas

Short Stories About Childhood Fears

When we were children, there were always things that scared us – monsters under the bed or in the closet, ghosts hiding in dark corners…the list goes on.

Think of your favorite things to be afraid of and write a short story about them! You can even include other elements from your childhood such as toys, friends etc.

Short Stories About The Love Between Family And Friends

When we’re young, we often take our family for granted because they are just always there – but that changes as we grow older. We often move away for work or school and sometimes, family members become ill or pass on.

Write about the love between family and friends with your own characters or by writing a story from the point of view of one of your favorite fictional children.

Short Stories About Dreams And Goals

Every day, people go to school, work or even just lounge around at home – but what are their goals and dreams? You could write a short story about someone who has just been accepted into the college of their choice, achieved the career they’ve always wanted…or perhaps meet up with an old friend to find out how they’ve changed since high school.

Short Stories For Children

Children’s books can be inspiring for people of all ages. If you’re looking to write something new, perhaps try your hand at creating a short story with simpler language and more illustrations than usual! You could even adapt an idea or character you’ve seen elsewhere.

Short Stories About The Power Of Nature

Everyone knows that Mother Earth is something we should be protecting instead of destroying.

Write about how nature is our friend and it’ll always help us if we let it or perhaps you could write a story where the main character has to find the balance between nature and modern technology.

Short Stories About The Unfortunate And Those Who Take Advantage Of Them

The world is full of unfortunate people who are abused or taken advantage of by others – but this is not right.

Perhaps you could write a story about an unfortunate person whose life improves after meeting someone special…or perhaps the main character finally stands up to their abuser.

What about short stories ideas based on fiction genres:

Fantacy short stories ideas

Sci-fi short stories ideas

Romance short stories ideas

Crime short stories ideas

Conclusion

Short stories are a great way to keep yourself entertained and learning new things. We hope that you enjoyed these short story excerpts, as well as the analysis of them. It was our pleasure to share this information with you! Thanks for reading, and we’ll see you next time on The Short Reads.

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Where To Publish Short Stories

Where To Publish Short Stories

If you want to publish short stories, there are many different ways to do so. You can submit them for publication in literary magazines or with publishing houses that specialize in shorter works. Short story collections are also a way to get your work out into the world and increase your chances of being discovered by an agent or publisher who might like what they see. So where should you publish? Read on!

In this post we outline:

1. The best places to publish short stories

2. Pros and cons of each place

3. What you should consider before publishing your story

4. Do your research before deciding where to publish your story

5. How much does it cost to publish a short story online, in print, or both

6. Tips for writing a great short story that will get published!

The best places to publish short stories

There are many places to publish short stories. Some pay, others do not, but every one of them is an opportunity for you to get your work read, reviewed, and discussed by critics and readers alike.

1. The New Yorker

The New Yorker has published some of the most celebrated works in America since its inception in 1925.

If you get a story published there, it will be read and talked about for years to come. In addition to publishing work from some of the most celebrated writers alive today, they also accept submissions from emerging authors.

They have a rigorous selection process that takes place throughout the month so you need to expect a long wait before hearing back from them—if you are accepted, you will be asked to join their contributor’s stable.

The pay is good too at $200 for original fiction.

2. Tin House

Tin House is a small literary magazine that accepts stories, flash fictions, and novel excerpts from emerging writers who have not yet been published in any other major magazines or book publishers.

They pay $100 for short stories and up to 3,000 words, as well as publishing a number of flash fictions per year.

They also feature emerging novelists on their website from time to time. You can find many Tin House contributors’ work in other magazines as a result of being published here first.

3. The Paris Review

The Paris Review is one of the most famous literary magazines in America. It features stories and poems from emerging and established writers alike, as well as book reviews and interviews with prominent figures in literature such as Salman Rushdie and Junot Diaz.

Their pay scale for fiction is $0.25 per word up to a maximum of $250 (sold to one of their many international publishing partners). You can expect to hear back from them within 6-8 weeks.

4. Ploughshares

Ploughshares is another of the most respected literary magazines in America, thanks to its New England pedigree and circulation at prestigious universities around the country.

They pay $50 per printed page up to a maximum of $300 for first time authors and offer a generous discount to return contributors.

They publish a number of poems as well as short stories, but their selection process is notoriously slow—you can expect to wait around 9 months to hear back from them if you’re accepted.

5. The New York Times Sunday Magazine

The New York Times magazine recently announced a short fiction contest open to all writers, with the winner receiving $15,000 and publication in the magazine.

There is no hard word count for this contest but they want stories between 2-5 pages in length (about 1200-1800 words). This is an excellent opportunity for emerging authors who lack a literary agent or book publisher to get their work published.

6. Playboy Magazine

Playboy, like The New Yorker, is an iconic fixture in American culture and literature (after all, they featured short stories by Jack Kerouac and Haruki Murakami).

They pay $3000 per story for original fiction—which is more than most book publications will offer you!

They also feature several short stories per year—both original works and reprints of popular stories from other magazines.

If you are one of the few authors who make their final round, your story will be forwarded to Playboy’s editors for consideration.

7. The New York Times

The New York Times is another publication that offers a short fiction contest for emerging writers, but the contest is open to all writers over 18 years of age (no matter where you live).

The winner receives $15,000 and publication in the New York Times Magazine. They also offer a number of opportunities for published authors to write short pieces for them as well–which will pay $300-$1000 depending on how long they are.

Pros and cons of each place:

Tin House has one of the quickest response times from submission to acceptance or rejection, but their pay scale is relatively low compared to other magazines on this list.

The Paris Review gets a little more complicated because they have a strict 3 month wait time before you can submit again and they only accept submissions through an agent or by post—which means you have to physically mail your story to them if you aren’t a US citizen.

Ploughshares tends to have a much longer wait time but they pay the highest rate of all the magazines on this list ($50 per printed page) as well as offering a generous discount for reprints and first-timers.

The New York Times magazine offers a wonderful opportunity for emerging writers to get their work published but they only accept submissions through an agent or by post (so it’s not open to everyone).

Playboy is one of the best paying markets on this list, but you must be over 18 (no matter where you live) and be willing to write under your real name.

The New York Times is also a wonderful opportunity for emerging writers to get their stories published but they only accept submissions through an agent or by post (so it’s not open to everyone). The pay scale isn’t as high as Playboy but you have better odds of being accepted.

A place only accepting submissions from agents or by post makes me nervous because that means they don’t want your work to be judged by anyone other than their editors. This makes me think that maybe the pay isn’t worth it–and you’re only wasting your time if you take the risk.

What you should consider before publishing your story

The acceptance rate for The Paris Review is well below 1% and Tin House is only slightly better. If you’re trying to get your story in print for the first time, you probably shouldn’t start with either of these magazines.

I would recommend sending your story to less competitive markets if it’s been rejected or ignored by 5 other places before sending it to Tin House or The Paris Review.

1). That you are not on the list of finalists for another publication (no matter how little money they pay) until after the contest is over.

2). That your story will be printed anonymously if it makes the final round and published in the New Yorker, Playboy, or The Paris Review.

3). That the editors reserve the right to publish your story online or use it for any other purpose that may arise in the future (including publishing it again in another magazine without notifying you).

5). The specific rights they are purchasing (worldwide English, digital, post-print…etc)

6). If you can submit again if you are unsuccessful the first time.

7). How soon after they are notified of their finalist status they must submit their story.

8). If your story will be forwarded for consideration for any other publications or part of a contest that is still accepting submissions.

9). What happens to your submission if you withdraw it from consideration.

Do your research before deciding where to publish your story

I know what you’re thinking. “I don’t want to miss out on getting my story published!”

But honestly, even though each of these magazines all have one or more things going for them than the others–they all cost you time and effort if they reject your work.

There is also no guarantee that the other finalist stories won’t be picked over yours and you won’t win the contest.

It may seem like a no-brainer that if your story is selected as a finalist then it must be the best of the bunch but that isn’t necessarily true. Editors often like to shake things up and pick stories outside of the genres they usually publish (like choosing a nonfiction story in a fiction contest).

There is no harm in submitting your work to more than one publication at once or waiting until you get an acceptance before publishing–as long as you don’t tell the other publishers that’s what you’re doing.

So…if you can wait and if it doesn’t cost anything to submit, there’s no reason not to send your story out as many times as you want.

Just remember, the more places you try and publish your work, the longer it’s going to take to see if it gets published anywhere.

How much does it cost to publish a short story online, in print, or both?

If you’re lucky, free.

It’s possible to get published for nothing but it may take a lot of time and effort. Self-publishing is great because then you don’t have to pay the fees that publishing magazines charge or worry about being paid by anyone.

You can always try to sell your self-published work later if you don’t want to do the work yourself.

If you’re not sure how much it will cost, just ask–the worst they can say is “no.”

Tips for writing a great short story that will get published!

Tip #1: Don’t write about sex, drugs, or rock and roll. Think literary fiction or a literary memoir.

Tip #2: Write something that doesn’t have an obvious moral lesson. Anti-heroes are cool but not as cool as ambiguous endings. If you can avoid it, don’t have your character learning a life lesson at the end.

Tip #3: No narrators, no dialogue tags, and minimal action. A really good way to avoid a plot is to have a first-person account of someone going on a walk. Memories are great too–because they can’t really do anything except remember something that happened to them in the past.

Tip #4: A great way to make your story longer is to have it be about nothing. A lot of people do this by making the setting more important than the actual characters or action in a story. Since characterization is really hard, you can trick readers into thinking they’re getting a well-developed character by having them interact with lots of objects and places.

Tip #5: No poetry! Poetry is something you read at a reading (see above) and it’s not really considered “literature.” If you write in verse, most publishers will print it but they’ll stick your name in the fine print somewhere and none of the cool kids will know that it’s yours.

Tip #6: Make sure your story is under 2,500 words long. There are some magazines that might publish up to 3,000 words but honestly–anything over that and you’re just wasting trees.

Tip #7: If you write about death or class issues, make it really easy on everyone involved–including yourself–by not going into any detail. All you need is a quote from a dead guy and a token person of color or some kind of “outsider.”

Tip #8: No humorous stories! Humor isn’t really taken seriously so if you’re trying to get serious literary cred, skip the jokes.

Tip #9: Most short story contests aren’t worth entering. You can win a contest and it won’t get your work published at all or you can get a publication to buy your story for money–and that’s the only place they’ll publish it. S

ome small magazines might include a contest as part of their submission process but none of them are big enough to get you anything more than bragging rights.

Tip #10: If someone says that they don’t want to publish your story because it isn’t right for their magazine, that doesn’t mean they hate you and/or your writing–just take it as a compliment and send it off somewhere else.

Conclusion

There are many places to publish short stories, and it’s up to you which one is best.

But for the sake of time and effort, we recommend publishing your story on Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), Wattpad or Scrivener.

These sites enable you to write a story in chunks while still keeping an audience engaged with new episodes; they also offer detailed analytics that will help you see what parts of the story resonate most with readers. If you’re not ready to self-publish yet, there are plenty of other options out there – just do some research first!

We’ve outlined the best print options for you above. Check them out

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What Length Is A Short Story?

What Length is a Short Story?

What length is a story is short? It sounds like a brain teaser, but the question is asked by many aspiring short story writers – what is the right length for my short story?

Of course, the answer will be different depending on the author, the story and the intended publication. But even though there isn’t a single solution to creating the perfect story length, there are a few consistent ways to decide how long a short story should be.

 

What is a Short Story?

A short story is a work of fiction that is relatively quick to read. That’s about the only thing that is set in stone – while most short stories focus on a single plot line, with few characters, through a short space of time, other short stories might be more complicated.

Authors might use a short story format to explore an interesting character, or to quickly set up a world for a storyline to play out. Short stories come in a wide range of genres, although some genres are more popular for short stories than others.

More than the length or genre, the most important part of a short story is the impression it has on the reader in a short amount of time. The author has to find the sweet spot between carefully choosing their words and telling a meaningful, impacting story that will stay with the reader.

Story Length

Of course, there are many opinions on the correct word counts for each classification of story length – however, the following types of story length are based on generally accepted word counts:

• Microfiction: Up to 100 words

There is a very famous piece of microfiction attributed to Ernest Hemingway – legend has it that in order to win a bet, he wrote a story using only six words:

 “For sale: baby shoes, never worn.”

Microfiction (sometimes called microflash) is extremely difficult to write well, but there is a market for this story length. Publishers can easily fit microfiction onto a page, making it desirable for some publications.

• Flash fiction: 100 to 1,000 words

Flash fiction delivers humour, romance or fantasy in a bite-sized story. Often found in magazines and online publications, flash fiction is a snapshot of a story that can be included on a page and quickly consumed by the reader.

• Short story: 500 to 7,500 words

The most common word count for a short story falls within this range. Each publication will have its own preference, but 7,500 words is a widely accepted upper limit. That being said, others consider any work less than 10,000 words to be a short story.

Once an author exceeds 10,000 words, they have left the “short story” grouping and are creating a novelette (7,500 to 25,000 words), a novella (10,000 to 70,000 words) or a novel (50,000 words or more). Each of these word lengths have their own strengths and weaknesses, but they are unlikely to achieve the convenient length and punchy impact of a short story.

Choosing a Length

Obviously, there’s a lot of leeway in how long a story can be and still classify as a short story – a work of 500 words and another of 7,500 words are both short stories, but are likely to be very different.

There are other factors to think about in order to decide the right length for a storyline. Some aspects to consider when deciding the right length are:

• How long does my story take to tell? It sounds simple, but it’s really important – a story should use as many words as it needs to tell the tale. Lengthy stories might need a sharp eye to cut out unnecessary passages, and authors writing stories on the shorter side have to pay special attention to setting the scene and how they develop characters.

But ultimately, the story should be as long as it needs to be – no more, no less.

• Is it likely to get published? Some short story lengths have wider appeal to a range of different publications. For many short story publications and competitions, a submission of over 3,500 words will have less chance of being accepted.

If the short story isn’t specifically written with a publishing destination in mind, it might be helpful to keep it on the shorter side to increase its appeal.

• Does it meet publishing guidelines? If the story is written with a specific destination in mind, the publication or competition will have rules that the author should stick to in order to increase the likelihood of acceptance.

Publishers and competitions will almost always have submission guidelines available, and the word count is an important factor that decides whether or not a story will make the cut.

• Can it be read in a single sitting? Edgar Allen Poe described the ideal short story length as one that is able to be read in a single sitting, and it’s a helpful concept for the author to keep in mind.

Modern readers are often time poor and reading on mobile devices, so a short story that is gripping but can be quickly consumed is likely to find a wide audience.

Creating Short Stories

The most basic definition of a short story is a work of fiction that is between 500 to 7,500 words long, but there are many other factors that can influence the exact number of words included in a short story.

Short stories have to keep the attention of their readers. They have to fit in well with the publication they are destined for, meeting word counts and other criteria.  They have to leave an impression on their readers. And of course, they have to be worth reading.

If a story is well told, it will have appeal regardless of the length. Creating a short story is an excellent way to provide readers with an easily consumable piece of fiction that draws them in and leaves an impression.

Really, the perfect short story length is however long it takes to accomplish that feat.

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