time skips in short stories

It can be good. Time skips can add surprise and depth to a short story if done right.

One technique is to use the changing seasons as a marker for time skips. If you start a story in spring and then the next scene is in winter, it clearly shows that time has passed. You can also use the aging of characters. If a character was described as a child in one part and then is an adult in the next without much in - between detail, it's a time skip. Additionally, you can use the development of technology or society in the story. For example, if the first part of the story has no cars and the next part does, it indicates a significant time skip.

Time skips can be used to move the plot forward quickly. For example, you can skip over uneventful periods to focus on key moments. This keeps the story concise and engaging.

You can use phrases like 'years later' or 'after a long time' to indicate a time skip. Also, describe changes in the characters or setting to make the passage of time clear.

To do time skips well in a short story, first, you need a good reason for the jump. It could be to show character growth or a significant event. Then, give just enough details to fill the gap and keep the story flowing smoothly.

Sure, it can be okay. It depends on how well it's handled and if it serves the story's purpose.

Small time skips in novels can serve several functions. For one, they can create a sense of passage of time without having to describe every single moment in between. This helps to move the plot forward more quickly. For example, if a character is starting a long journey, a small time skip can take the reader to the end of the journey without detailing all the days of travel. Another function is to build suspense. By skipping a short period, the author can leave the reader wondering what has happened during that time.

It depends on the genre and the audience. In some literary fiction, readers might be more accepting of complex time - related structures, including lots of time skips. But for younger audiences or in more straightforward genres like some action - adventure stories for kids, too many time skips could be a problem as they may have a harder time following the story.

You can do it by providing clear cues or transitions. Maybe a brief summary of what happened during the skipped time to keep readers in the loop.

You can do it by clearly marking the time jump and explaining the changes that happened during that period. Make it smooth and not too jarring for the readers.