Also, don't introduce completely new elements at the very end. The ending should be related to what has come before. If you introduce a new character or a new plot point at the end, it'll be confusing and detract from the overall story.
Avoid leaving too many questions unanswered. Readers like closure. If there are too many things left hanging, they'll feel unsatisfied.
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.
Over - explaining can also be a mistake. Once you've made your point, stop. If you keep going on and on about the meaning of the ending, it can take away from the impact. Let the readers draw their own conclusions to some extent.
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.
Avoid ending a short story too abruptly. For example, if you've built up a complex plot and then just stop without any real resolution, it will leave the reader feeling cheated. It's like you've been leading them on a journey and then suddenly cut it short without reaching the destination.
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.
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 introducing new major plot elements at the end. It can confuse the reader. For example, don't suddenly bring in a new character who solves all the problems. Also, don't end it too abruptly without resolving the main conflict. It'll leave the reader feeling unsatisfied. And don't make the ending too predictable. If the reader can see the ending coming from a mile away, it's not very engaging.
Well, one big mistake is having a weak plot. Make sure your story has a clear beginning, middle, and end that keep the readers engaged.
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.