What are the common mistakes to avoid when ending a short story?

One common mistake is ending too abruptly. It can leave the readers feeling unsatisfied. For example, if you're writing a long adventure story and suddenly end it without resolving the main conflict, it's not good.

One common mistake is being cowardly and not communicating directly. Ghosting, or disappearing without explanation, is very hurtful. Another mistake is using the end of the relationship as a chance to be cruel or to get revenge. This only creates more pain and animosity. Also, don't make false promises like saying you'll stay friends if you really don't mean it. It gives the other person false hope. For example, if you say you'll keep in touch but then never respond to their messages, it's just going to make the situation worse.

When retelling a short story, avoid these mistakes. First, don't misinterpret the theme. If the story is about friendship, don't retell it as a story about competition. Second, don't over - simplify to the point where the story loses its meaning. For example, if there are complex relationships between characters in the story, don't just make them all friendly without explanation. Third, don't rush through the retelling. Take your time to ensure you cover all the necessary elements, like the build - up of tension and the resolution.

A major mistake is sending a rough draft instead of a polished piece. Editors expect a high - quality story. Not researching the target market is also bad. If you send a horror story to a romance - focused publication, it won't work. And don't forget about the cover letter. A poorly written or missing cover letter can give a negative impression. Make it concise and engaging.

One big no-no is having a confusing plot. Make sure your story has a clear beginning, middle, and end that readers can follow easily.

Don't make the ending too rushed. If you've built up a complex plot, take the time to wrap it up properly. A rushed ending might leave the reader feeling like they missed out on something important. For example, if a long - running love story ends with just a quick 'they got married' without any real build - up to that moment, it can be disappointing.

One common mistake is having a weak or unclear plot. If the story doesn't have a clear direction, it'll be confusing for the reader. Another is flat characters. They should be complex and interesting. Also, overusing clichés can make the story seem unoriginal. Try to come up with fresh ideas and perspectives.

When submitting a fiction short story, don't forget to proofread thoroughly. A lot of people make the mistake of overlooking typos and grammar errors. Also, don't be too pushy in your cover letter. Keep it simple and professional. And never submit a story that has not been properly formatted according to the requirements of the recipient.

Avoid ending abruptly without resolving the main conflict. It leaves the reader feeling cheated. For example, if it's a battle story and the fight just stops without a clear winner.

Avoid leaving too many questions unanswered. Readers like closure. If there are too many things left hanging, they'll feel unsatisfied.