1. SHORT STORY ESSENTIALS

2. CAPITALS! STEP 1. I am Mr. Allard.
First word of a sentence. CAPITALIZE!
First and last name. CAPITALS!
Names of places. CAPITALS!
First letter of a quote. CAPITALS!
Using ‘I’. CAPITAL!
Remember: YOU are important!! :)

3. Step 2.
PUNCTUATION!!
When you are reading it out loud - where do you take a breath/pause?
There is a good chance that you need punctuation there.

4. DO ANY OF YOUR SENTENCES START WITH ‘BUT’ or ‘BECAUSE’?
COMMAS
IF you are using a comma:
Is it separating a thought that is connected, or two separate thoughts?
If they are not closely connected, you may need a period and then start a new sentence!
DO ANY OF YOUR SENTENCES START WITH ‘BUT’ or ‘BECAUSE’?
GET RID OF THEM!

6. 3. INTERESTING OPENING SENTENCE
I’m sorry to say: ‘Once upon a time’ is no more…
Your first sentence is your HOOK! Your reader should WANT to keep reading!

7. 4. Setting
When developing your setting, be as descriptive as possible. Paint a picture with words.
Try to appeal to the senses.
Reveal details about the setting as the story progresses. Don’t just tell the reader, show the reader.

8. 5. Characterization Your characters can make or break your story.
When developing your character, don’t just outright explain their appearance, personality, etc. Let readers discover this character on their own as they read.
Think back to STEAL.
Refer back to your PowerPoint notes on Characterization 

9. 6. The Plot
Ensure that your story includes all of the elements of plot.
Does your plot follow a sequential order?
Does your story have an identifiable conflict?
Does your plot take an unexpected turn? This keeps the readers on their toes.
Is there a resolution?