How to Write an Interesting Short Story
Writing a short story is never easy as you have very little time or space to introduce all the characters, make a plot and build a setting that is interesting to read. Being able to write interesting short stories is literally an art form as not that many writers can pull it off effectively. However, if you are looking to write an interesting short story then there are some easy to follow techniques that can help you on your way to writing something special that everyone will love to read.
Instructions
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1
Make an outline:
Be sure that you make an effective outline of your short story. Remember that this is your basic structure in which you write down the different ideas that you have for your short story. Your outline will constantly change as you add or remove different points that interest you. Once you finalise your outline you can move on to developing characters, settings and a plot. -
2
Develop characters:
In a short story it is better to have a maximum of two characters because you will not the space or time to develop more characters for the reader to understand their role or purpose in the short story. Keep your characters simple and easy to relate to for the reader. The more complicated the characters, the more time you will need to develop their backgrounds. -
3
Develop setting:
Developing the setting is very important as this will help determine the overall feel of the short story. Your setting can be anywhere that you prefer but it is advised to keep it simple so that the reader can associate and visualise it while reading. Remember to develop your setting according to the characters and overall plot. -
4
Develop plot:
Although the plot is considered to be the most difficult part of putting together an interesting short story, you can still manage to develop one that can start off simple and get more complex as the story moves on. Remember to keep descriptions of the characters during the different events that take place in your plot and their subsequent actions. Try to pull together the characters, setting and plot through effective descriptions of what exactly is going on and how the characters are dealing with it. -
5
Work on theme and conflicts:
Always have a well developed theme and a conflict that the characters must tackle while still in the framework of your plot and setting. Use your outline to help you determine the best way to make a conflict and also how it can be fused with the overall theme of your short story. -
6
Determine point of view:
Determining the point of view for the narration can be quite tricky as you will have to decide which character will be describing the events through their eyes and words. The point of view is entirely up to you and is something that will come naturally as you start to put your short story together.
