ideas to write short stories

One idea is to start with a 'what if' question. For example, 'What if people could fly?'. This can lead to a whole world of possibilities. You could describe how the world would change, the new rules, and the characters' reactions. Another idea is to base your story on a real - life event but add a fictional twist. Maybe a historical event with a magical element.

You could write about a character who wakes up one day with a strange power, like the ability to fly. The story could be about how they deal with this new - found power and whether they use it for good or bad. Another idea is to write a story set in a post - apocalyptic world. Describe the struggles of the survivors, how they find food and shelter, and what their hopes for the future are.

One idea could be a story about an old, abandoned house. A young couple decides to explore it. As they enter, the doors slam shut behind them. Strange noises start coming from the attic, like something is dragging heavy chains. They try to find a way out but every door they open leads to a darker and scarier room filled with cobwebs and the feeling of being watched.

One idea could be a young adventurer who discovers a hidden, magical forest. In this forest, the trees can talk and they hold the secrets of an ancient civilization. The adventurer has to solve riddles set by the trees to find a magical artifact that can save his own world from an approaching darkness.

You could write 'For my family, whose love and support inspired this story.' This dedication shows the personal connection and how the family's influence led to the creation of the story.

First, think about interesting characters. For example, a lonely old man who has a secret past. Then, create a simple but engaging plot like the old man discovers a mysterious package at his doorstep and has to decide whether to open it or not. Another idea is to start with a unique setting, say an abandoned amusement park at midnight. The atmosphere can inspire the story's mood and events.

One idea could be to start with a unique character. For example, an old man who has a mysterious past and lives alone in an abandoned lighthouse. His daily routine could be disrupted by the arrival of a young, curious traveler. This contrast in age and background can create interesting interactions and drive the story forward.

First, jot down all your ideas. Then, pick the most interesting ones and start to build a plot around them. For example, if your idea is about a magical forest, you can create characters like a lost child and a friendly forest spirit. Next, think about the conflict, like the child trying to find his way home and the spirit helping. Finally, write the story with a clear beginning, middle and end.

You could write about a forest that has an evil presence. Maybe a group of hikers go into the forest and get lost. As they wander, they start to feel like they're being watched. The trees seem to close in on them, and they hear howls that don't sound like any normal animal. The forest seems to play tricks on their minds, making them see things that aren't there, like apparitions of long - dead hunters.

One idea could be a haunted house. Picture an old, dilapidated mansion on the outskirts of town. Strange noises come from within at night, like creaking floorboards and whispering voices. The protagonist could be a curious journalist who decides to spend a night there to write a story. As the night progresses, they start to see shadowy figures moving in the corners of their vision.