prompts for fiction short stories

Use character flaws. A character who is overly proud might refuse help when they actually need it, leading to all sorts of complications in the story. This adds depth to the character and makes the story more interesting as the reader watches them struggle with their own flaws.

One benefit is that they can overcome writer's block. When you don't know what to write, a short story prompt gives you a direction. Another benefit is that they can inspire creativity. They present a unique situation that you can build on in many different ways. For example, a prompt about a magic portal can lead to countless stories depending on how you develop it.

Good prompts for short stories include 'A broken - down car in the middle of nowhere'. This might lead to a story of survival, self - discovery, or an encounter with unexpected help. 'A photograph that shows a different time and place' can inspire a story about memories, nostalgia, or time travel. Also, 'A magic potion that has an unforeseen side effect' which can result in all kinds of creative and wild short story ideas.

A sudden change in the setting. If a story is set in a peaceful town and suddenly there's a portal to another dimension that opens up, it's a great plot twist. It challenges the characters and forces them to adapt quickly, which in turn creates new conflicts and opportunities for the story to develop.

A character who wakes up one day with a strange power. For example, the ability to read people's thoughts. This could lead to various interesting situations, such as accidentally discovering a conspiracy.

Well, with short story prompts for fiction, you should consider it as a springboard. If the prompt is about a time - traveling event, start imagining the character who experiences it. Is it a scientist? A regular person? Then, think about the rules of time travel in your story. How does it affect the character? What is the character's goal in this time - traveling journey? You can also add sub - plots related to the character's personal life before and after the time - travel.

One good prompt could be 'A mysterious letter arrives in the mail with no return address'. This can lead to a story about mystery, secrecy, and perhaps a journey to uncover the sender's identity. Another prompt is 'You wake up in a world where colors have disappeared'. It allows for a creative exploration of a dull, monochromatic world and the character's attempts to bring back color. And 'A strange noise coming from the attic at midnight' can inspire a spooky short story.

One prompt could be 'Describe a character who has a unique quirk and build a short story around how this quirk affects their daily life.' For example, a character who can't stand the color yellow. Every time they see it, they freeze. This could lead to all sorts of comical or tense situations in a story.

Well, start with physical details. It could be a scar on the face or a limp that makes them stand out. Then, consider their desires and fears. A character who desires power but fears loneliness can lead to complex interactions. And don't forget about their speech patterns. A character who talks in riddles can add mystery.

Love and relationships are also prevalent. Prompts could be about a first love, a broken relationship, or a long - lost friendship being rekindled. It gives writers a chance to explore the complex emotions associated with these relationships.