It’s never too late to do something new, like writing your first short story! Here, we share five tips for getting you started.
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1. Get planning
Before you put pen to paper, think about how you can combine the plot and climax for maximum effect – having a clear beginning, middle and end will help.
2. Be selective
Limit the number of characters you use. The fewer you use, the more opportunity you’ll have to convey their personality through their appearance, actions and thoughts. And the fewer incidents you describe, the better chance you’ll have of evoking each one more clearly.
3. Keep it tight
Most short stories are around 2 500 words, which isn’t a lot when it comes to telling a story, but making sure your events take place in a short timeframe may help. Perhaps the plot could revolve around a pivotal incident in your main character’s life, for example.
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4. Use your senses
Descriptions will come alive if described using one or more of the five senses. Dialogue can also be used, but is perhaps best kept as a way to advance the plot instead of extra padding.
5. Make every word count
With such a small canvas to work on, everything you write must be justified. Adverbs and clichés are best avoided.
