Can conflict happen in a short story and if so, how?

Sure. Conflict is very common in short stories. There might be a conflict between a character and society. In a short story set in a dystopian world, the main character might oppose the strict rules and values of the society they live in. This creates tension and drives the plot forward, making the story interesting.

You can start by looking at the characters' goals and the obstacles they face. Usually, the conflict arises when those goals are challenged or blocked.

You can start by creating characters with opposing goals or values. This automatically sets up potential for conflict. Also, introduce unexpected obstacles or complications that make it harder for the characters to achieve what they want.

Look for opposing forces or situations. Maybe it's a character's internal struggle or a clash between characters. Sometimes it's a fight against nature or society.

One way is through character vs. character. For example, two friends may have a disagreement over a shared goal. Maybe one wants to take a risk to achieve it while the other is more cautious. This creates an immediate conflict that can drive the story forward.

To develop conflict in a short story, consider using a mystery or a secret that needs to be uncovered. This can create tension and conflict as the characters try to solve it. You could also have a limited resource that multiple characters are vying for. For example, only one promotion is available at work, and several characters are competing for it.

First, figure out what your story is about. Then, look for things that could stand in the way of the main idea. Maybe it's a person, a situation, or even the character's own personality. Build up the tension as the story progresses to keep the readers engaged.

You can start by creating opposing goals or desires for your characters. Maybe one wants something the other is against. That's a simple way to bring in conflict.

Start by establishing characters with opposing goals or desires. That's a basic way to get the conflict going.

The key to writing conflict in a short story is to make it sharp and focused. You could have a character facing internal conflict like self-doubt or external conflict like a natural disaster. Build up the tension gradually and resolve it in a satisfying way.