Tips for writing short stories - 500-750 words

[jeanette1976]

Can anyone help me here as my friend has entered me in for a competition and I'd really like to go for it but unsure how to start. Its only meant to be 500-750 words, so it is VERY short. Is is really possible to do the following in so few words? Ie. Scene setting, characters, point of the story/subject matter, end Many thanks X

[sophie_1003]

In one of the magazines my Gran reads there's a section on the letters page where people write in a story of just 50 words, sometimes they're just jokes but other times they are actually mini stories and they are always really good! So yes it is possible!

[jeanette1976]

Yes, I've seen them too! Some are actually quite good!

[EMS86]

I'd say once you've got an idea for the story you should get a structure written down. Perhaps a beginning, middle and end. Then all you need do is pad it out with detail. I also agree that you should read some short stories aswell and get some ideas:)

[Quizmonster]

Click here for a simple guide to short-story construction. Go for it!

[Hellion]

I once read a ghost story that was only one page long and it scared the bejesus out of me. I've just tried to find the book it was in but I've got a lot in storage. Can't remeber what it was called or who by but about a husband and wife going home from a party in a car.

[Hellion]

Sorry, so the answer is yes!