How to Write a Short Story

Characteristics of a Short Story  Gets off to a fast start  Has a limited number of characters and scenes  Starts close to conclusion and covers a brief period in time  Usually deals with only one problem  Uses limited detail, only what is necessary for understanding the situation  Gets off to a fast start  Has a limited number of characters and scenes  Starts close to conclusion and covers a brief period in time  Usually deals with only one problem  Uses limited detail, only what is necessary for understanding the situation Seton Hill

Prewriting Exercises  Make lists- sketch out characters, plot, emotional tone without slowing down to organize your ideas into sentences or paragraphs (brainstorm).  Develop a list of events- Think about your own personal experiences. Good literature is universal.  Make lists- sketch out characters, plot, emotional tone without slowing down to organize your ideas into sentences or paragraphs (brainstorm).  Develop a list of events- Think about your own personal experiences. Good literature is universal.

Open with a “bang”  The first paragraph of a written work is without question the most important because it draws the reader into the story. Use emotional or descriptive language to capture the reader’s attention and draw them into the story.

Develop Characters  List characters, and characteristics of each (for example: name, ethnicity, appearance, residence, etc.)  Also, make sure the dialogue between characters is meaningful. That will save time and cut out the “fluff.”  List characters, and characteristics of each (for example: name, ethnicity, appearance, residence, etc.)  Also, make sure the dialogue between characters is meaningful. That will save time and cut out the “fluff.” It’s also important not to have too many characters. An abundance of characters will confuse readers, and water- down the story.

Setting and Context Incorporate the setting of the story with characterization and plot. Be descriptive: use two or more senses to describe the setting.

Set up the plot  The plot is the “action” or storyline. It’s the meat and potatoes of the story.

Create Conflict and Tension Conflict and tension are correlated in that tension is a result of conflict. Tension- created by opposition between the character or characters and internal or external forces or conditions.

Build to a crisis or climax  Just as in a movie, the most important event of the story should feature a dramatic turning point that climaxes in an event that engages the reader.

Find a Resolution  The resolution is basically the solution to the aforementioned conflict. In the resolution, you should document the changes in the character or characters as your story winds to a conclusion.

Other tips  Don’t waste time with characters or events that aren’t pertinent to your theme. A short story is just that-short. Be sure to stay on focus and stick with your theme. A short story is meant to cover a very brief time span.