Tips & Tricks

Start With A Strong Hook 

Think of the first line of your story like a handshake with your reader - its job is to set the tone and spark interest. Whether it’s something unconventional or an action-packed sentence, an engaging and punchy hook will help you start your story powerfully and increase your chances of winning.

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Show, Don't Tell

The principle of "show, don't tell" is so important to effective storytelling in short story competitions. This technique involves illustrating scenes and emotions with vivid descriptions and actions rather than simply stating what is happening. Practicing this skill will elevate your work and engage your reader on a deeper level.

 

Avoid Common Clichés

While clichés can occasionally work if used creatively, they should be avoided in writing short stories, especially in the context of a short story competition. Overused plots like "it was all a dream" will make your piece feel unoriginal.

 

Respect Your Reader

Don't underestimate your audience or over-explain details due to fear of misunderstanding. This approach causes flat stories that tell too much and show too little, which may dampen your prose. Trust your reader to make their own connections and draw their conclusions; it'll help to keep your writing engaging while also staying within the word limit.

 

Add a Twist

Short stories often benefit from ending with a twist. Crafting such endings requires a certain creativity; they should be unique and unexpected. A powerful twist goes a long way in increasing memorability. Remember - start strong, end strong!