WHAT IS A SHORT STORY? A BEGINNER'S GUIDE

Petra Hadžidaova
1 minute ago
2 min read

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INTRODUCTION

Many a great writer began their writing journey with short stories, which is advised to all new writers. But what exactly is a short story? How short is “short”? And how is it different from a novel or a piece of flash fiction?

Today, we will explore the term short story and its core elements.

WHAT IS A SHORT STORY?

In simpler terms, a short story is a work of fiction that can typically be read in one sitting. To be more precise, though, a short story is a brief fictional prose narrative. (2, 3)

It focuses on a single plot, usually contains few characters, and often one main conflict or moment of change, conveyed in only one or a few significant episodes or scenes. (2, 3)

Most short stories fall between 1,000 and 7,500 words, although this can vary. Stories under 1,000 words are often classified as flash fiction, while longer works above 7,500 words might be considered novelettes.

KEY ELEMENTS TO A SHORT STORY

While short stories are brief, they still contain all the essential components of storytelling:

Character – Usually one or two main characters. There's not much space for a full backstory, so the characters are usually not fully developed. What you include must matter.
Setting – Time and place are still important, even if described in just a few lines. A strong setting can deepen the mood and tone.
Conflict – The core of any story. This might be a personal struggle, a decision, a confrontation, or even an internal realization.
Plot – A short story typically follows a simple structure: beginning (setup), middle (conflict), and end (resolution or twist).
Theme – A central idea or message. The best short stories leave readers thinking long after they’re done. (2, 3)

WHY READ OR WRITE SHORT STORIES

Great for practice: They allow you to test ideas, styles, and characters quickly.
Easier to finish: You can complete a draft in a day or a weekend.
Build your portfolio: Many magazines and websites accept short story submissions from new writers.
Instant feedback: Because they’re short, you can share them with others and get responses faster. (3)

FAMOUS EXAMPLES OF SHORT STORIES

If you're curious what short stories feel like, here are a few classic examples worth reading:

“The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson
“The Tell-Tale Heart” by Edgar Allan Poe
“A Good Man Is Hard to Find” by Flannery O’Connor
“Cat Person” by Kristen Roupenian (a modern viral hit)

Each of these stories is under 5,000 words but packs a powerful emotional or thematic punch. (3)

IN CONCLUSION

Though short and including few characters and settings, short stories are an art form in their own right. As with other writing forms, short stories contain well-defined core elements, including characters, settings, theme, plot, and conflict. They are a great way to practice writing, can be written quickly and allow for instant feedback. All in all, they are one of the best ways to grow as a writer.

So why not start your own today?

SOURCES

Image created via canva.com.
Arlen J. Hansen. Short story. Britannica; Apr 14, 2025. Available at https://www.britannica.com/art/short-story/The-20th-century
OpenAI https://openai.com/