How to Write Short Fiction

Short fiction can be a proving ground for a good story. If you can say things with an economy of words, you can succeed in short fiction. The 2,000-word short story seems to be what many editors of magazines and writing contests want. This guide will explain in detail how to keep your story under 2,000 words.

Instructions

1. Start with a theme. Many writers explore multiple themes in their stories. If you want to write short fiction, it helps to focus on just one theme. Put it on the wall in front of where you write, or on the desk. It will remind you what you want to say.

2. Use outlines. Outlines can let you cut down unnecessary ideas and themes. Dan Simmons, a renowned speculative fiction author, pointed out on his web site a very simple point: any piece of your work should move the story in three ways. When you think like that, it’s easy to write with an economy of words.

3. Write to publish. Remember where you will be attempting to publish this piece, at least in the editing stages. Sometimes all you need to know is the simple “short stories under 2,000 words” rule by the magazine or contest. This will help you remember the story has to be complete, but shorter than you want. You don’t have to write to publish, but sometimes it helps you keep the story in a straight line.

4. Follow the straight line. A story is a series of events leading to an ending. Each scene must move the story in three ways. In a novel, you can follow different paths on occasion, lose focus of the straight line. However, a short story needs to lead in a straight line to the finish.

5. Make sense of the words. So you have a story that follows a straight line but seems jumbled. You will be editing this story soon. Remember your theme and think in terms of scenes.

6. Trim it down. Sometimes a story will just simply be longer than 2,000 words. You can still publish it; this story can still use an economy of words. You don’t have to destroy your masterpiece because of the point I am making. Follow your instincts.

Tips & Warnings

• Some short stories of 2,000 words or less can be turned into something bigger, even a novel.

• You can also write a key sell point for your article in the beginning. This describes the story in short and keeps you focused.

• The days of making a living as a short story writer are over, for most at least. However, if you can publish a short story it can lead to publishing a novel, where there is more money.