How to write a Short Story : A Step-by-Step Guide
For someone who want to become a writer, short stories are a fantastic starting point. But how to start? Well, with 4 simple (also not so simple) steps you can write your own short stories.
1. Brainstorming and Concept:
- Pick a theme or genre: Do you want to write a sci-fi thriller, a heartwarming romance, a magical realism, or something else entirely? Choose a genre you’re passionate about. Don’t write on a genre that you don’t even read.
- Develop your premise: What is the core conflict of your story? Why does your protagonist keep fighting? It may be because-
someone killed his clan(!),
he fell in love with his boss’ daughter
he is trying to solve a mental trauma.
Solving social, economical blah blah problem.
But don’t expose the goal at the very beginning. That’ll be very bad.
- Define your characters: Create distinct personalities. Instead of the “damsel in distress” or the “cold faced hero,” create characters with flaws and unexpected habits. Think, how do your characters interact with each other? Consider friendships, rivalries, family dynamics, and romantic entanglements.
- Set the scene: Choose a vivid setting that complements your theme. Question yourself, will the setting be upsetting, warm and light or heartbreaking? If it’s a sweet story then make sure there will elements that can make the story look warm. Like — sunny day, clear eyes, shiny building or cute doll.
2. Plotting and Structure:
- Plot a basic outline: Divide your story into a beginning, middle, and end. Even with limited pages, ensure a clear arc of rising action, climax, and resolution.
- Focus on key scenes: Choose 3–5 key scenes that drive the plot and reveal character development. These scenes should be impactful and move the story forward.
- Avoid lengthy explanations: Often, the reader can infer backstory, character traits, or world-building details through the characters’ actions and reactions. Use action, dialogue, and sensory details to reveal information. Avoid infodumps or characters simply explaining things to each other.
- Keep the pacing tight: Every paragraph should serve a purpose. Avoid unnecessary details or unnecessary subplots.
3. Writing and Revision:
- Start with a strong hook: Grab your reader’s attention in the first paragraph. Introduce the conflict, setting, or a compelling character trait. Like -
“True! — nervous — very, very dreadfully nervous I am; and I am not ashamed to confess it. And why should I be ashamed? Am I not sane? No doubt you will think me mad.”
-”The Tell-Tale Heart” by Edgar Allan Poe
“Mrs. Peters wore a faded print dress, as if the pallor of the walls had taken hold of her clothes,” the Sheriff’s wife began.
- “A Jury of Her Peers” by Susan Glaspell
- Show, don’t tell: Paint a picture with your words. Describe what your characters see, hear, smell, taste, and touch. This brings the story to life and allows the reader to experience it firsthand. Avoid passive constructions that tell the reader what’s happening. Instead, use active verbs and descriptions to show the action unfolding.
- Focus on character development: Even in a short story, show your characters’ growth and struggles. This creates empathy and emotional investment.
- Utilize dialogue: Dialogue should sound like real people talking, not robots reciting information. Use contractions, slang, and regional accents if appropriate. Don’t just have your characters chat aimlessly.
- Read and revise : Cut unnecessary words, tighten scenes, and polish your prose. Aim for clarity and conciseness.
4. Polishing and Submitting:
- Proofread carefully: Use spell check, grammar tools, and even read your story aloud to catch any hidden mistakes. If your story mentions specific dates, locations, or historical events, double-check their accuracy to avoid factual errors. Ensure names, spellings, and character traits are consistent throughout the story. Inconsistency can irritate your readers out of the narrative.
- Consider feedback: Choose individuals who understand your genre and can offer constructive criticism. Look for feedback that is specific, actionable, and focused on improving your story. If you’re serious about publishing, consider hiring a professional editor to polish your grammar, punctuation, and overall flow.
- Target the right audience: Research publications or contests suitable for your story’s genre and theme.
- Follow submission guidelines: Ensure your formatting and presentation meet the specific requirements.
Additional Tips:
- Experiment: Try different narrative styles, voices, and structures. See what works best for your story.
- Read famous short stories: Analyze how other authors handle pacing, character development, and plot structure in short narratives.
- Enjoy the process: Writing should be fun and engaging. Don’t get bogged down in perfection.
Writing a good short story takes practice, patience, and perseverance. Take the challenge, experiment, and most importantly, have fun with the process!
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