How to Write a Short Story

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A short story is a great way to try your hand at creative writing. These steps will help you to write a short story that expresses your unique point of view.

To complete this How-To you will need:

Idea
Pen
Paper
Computer (optional)
Notebook (optional)

Step 1: Brainstorm

Come up with an idea for a story. Start with what you know; then move to what you don't know to draw inspiration.

Tip: Read as many short stories as you can to get a feel for the style.

Step 2: Outline

Gather your thoughts and write an outline. Develop your protagonist, or main character. Determine who you are writing about and how you want to tell their story.

Step 3: Write

Write your story either on paper or using a computer. Create a problem that your protagonist has to solve. This problem may be internal or external.

Step 4: Add detail

Add details so that your story is one your readers care about. Use vivid descriptions.

Tip: Bring a notebook with you everywhere you go so you can write down ideas as they come to you.

Step 5: Resolve

Include events that lead to a resolution of the problem. Resolve the story and enjoy the output of your creative energy.

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[Laura12378]

I'm tempted to comment first on a howcast vid and say "NOW NO ONE IS FIRST MUAHAHA"

[hamsterboy13]

Edgar Allen Poe..... aaahhhh The Allen Parsons Project.... good times

[MartinSofron]

will i need a pen? NO SHIT SHERLOCK

[TheShortAnimations]

''Her hair was strawberry red, with curls so bouncy, they were like a moon spring carnival'' xD lol?

[MikaelaBlake]

Optional: Computer and Notebook - So tell me, if you you do not have a computer and notebook, how do you write? Smear blood or feces on the wall??? You NEED a computer or a notebook (along with a writing utensil if you choose a notebook).

[monkfan72]

Try plagiarism. It works.

[kyra981000]

how to write a story take a note pad and write

[ZhuZhuWebkinz101]

@Timmytimmy123123 asdf movie LOL

[Timmytimmy123123]

Desmond the moon bear

"how did I get here?"

The end.

[sirshitsalot007]

english is the GAYEST class ever

[sirshitsalot007]

@833Assassin1 I can read backwards so fuck you