I'm not sure specifically as I don't know which 'the contest short story' you are referring to. It could be about a competition, perhaps a writing contest where the story itself is either the entry or about the experiences within the contest.
Well, for a YA short story contest, common requirements include a word count range, like 3,000 to 8,000 words. Also, the story might need to fit within a given genre or topic. And often, there are rules about originality and submission format.
First, have a clear understanding of the contest theme. Then, do extensive research if needed. Polish your writing, check for grammar errors, and make the story emotionally resonant with readers.
Works that have a clear voice and engaging characters are likely to be suitable for this contest. It could be short stories or even novellas if they meet the requirements. Also, fiction that can make the reader think, feel, or be surprised would be a great fit. Stories that explore different cultures, emotions, or situations in an interesting way are probably what they are looking for.
Once upon a time, there was a good housekeeping contest in our town. My neighbor, Mrs. Smith, decided to participate. She spent weeks cleaning every nook and cranny of her house. When the day of the contest arrived, the judges were amazed at how spotless her home was. In the end, she won second place and was overjoyed. It was a great experience for her and inspired others to keep their homes clean too.
It depends on how confident you are in your story and what the contest requirements are. If you think your story is unique and meets the criteria, go for it!