A Guide to Write a Short Story: Where to Start?

Well, you can start by identifying your target audience. For example, if you're selling sports gear, your audience might be fitness enthusiasts. Then, think about the unique selling point of your product or service. Is it high - quality? Affordable? Once you've got these basics, you can start crafting a story that will appeal to your audience.

Begin with a concept that really grabs you. Maybe it's a theme like love, betrayal, or revenge. If you choose love, think about the different kinds of love - romantic, platonic, or love for a cause. Once you have that, start jotting down some character ideas related to your concept. Who are the people in this love story? What are their personalities, goals, and flaws? Sketch out their backstories too. This helps in making them more believable. And don't forget to set the scene. Decide where your story will take place, whether it's a bustling city, a quiet countryside, or a far - off planet.

One way to start is to pose a thought-provoking question or present a conflict. It makes readers want to know what happens next. Also, using an unexpected or surprising statement can pique their interest.

To develop the plot, first think about the main conflict. It could be a person against another person, or against nature, society, etc. For instance, if it's a person against nature, your character might be lost in a storm. Then, build a series of events around this conflict that escalates the situation.

First, come up with an interesting idea. It could be based on something you experienced, a dream, or just your imagination. Then, outline the main plot points. Decide on the beginning, middle, and end. After that, start fleshing out the characters - give them personalities, motives, and goals. Next, write the story, making sure the pacing is right and there's a good flow. Finally, edit and proofread for clarity and grammar.

Starting with a setting can also be great. Picture a post - apocalyptic world or a small, idyllic village. Describe the sights, sounds, and smells of this place. Once you have the setting, you can introduce characters that fit into this environment and start developing the plot.

You can start with an idea. It could be a character, a situation, or a theme. For example, if you have an interesting character in mind, like a lonely old man who used to be a great adventurer. You can then build the story around him, thinking about his past, what led him to be lonely now, and what might happen to him in the future.

Begin with a strong emotion. Maybe it's a feeling of fear, like a character waking up in a dark, unfamiliar place. This emotion can drive the story forward as the character tries to figure out what's going on. Another option is to start with a moment of conflict, like two friends having an argument over a precious item.

You can start by choosing a genre that interests you. For example, if you like mystery, pick up a mystery novel. Look at best - seller lists or ask friends for recommendations.

Start with a scene that grabs the reader's attention. It could be a moment of high drama, like a car crash, or something more mysterious, like finding a strange object in an old attic. For instance, you open with a character waking up in a dark forest with no memory of how they got there. This immediately makes the reader wonder what's going on and keeps them engaged as you unfold the story.