5 Tips for Creating Trouble in a Short Story

Hey fellow writers!

Welcome to the IABX Wednesday Writing Tip! Today, we explore the art of creating trouble in a short story.

Conflict is the key ingredient that keeps readers hooked, and as Lisa Cupolo explains, short stories zero in on one pivotal moment in a character's life. Crafting that central "trouble" can be challenging, but focusing on these five essential tips can help you create tension and drive your story forward.

1. Make Your Character Want Something

A strong short story revolves around a character who deeply desires something—whether it’s a possession, a person, or a life change. The story’s momentum builds as the character pursues this goal. Introduce their desire early on to draw readers in and keep them engaged.

2. Introduce Danger Early

Danger doesn’t have to be life-threatening—it could be anything from discovering a suspicious text to getting involved in a risky situation. The danger heightens tension and gives readers a reason to keep turning the pages.

3. Complicate the Situation

Add unexpected complications to your story to create suspense. By throwing obstacles in your character's path or adding unexpected twists, you build layers of intrigue that make readers eager to see how things will unfold.

4. Hide the Real Problem

The surface conflict of a story is often just the tip of the iceberg. The true conflict usually lies deeper, driving the character’s actions and decisions. Revealing this hidden tension creates a richer narrative that resonates with readers.

5. Reveal the Trouble Early

Don’t wait too long to introduce the central conflict. The sooner readers understand the stakes, the more invested they will be in the outcome. Sometimes, getting right to the heart of the trouble within the first few paragraphs is the key to a gripping story.

Remember, creating trouble doesn’t have to be complex—it just has to feel real and urgent to the character. The more compelling the trouble, the more your readers will want to stick around to see how it all ends.

Happy Writing!

From IABX

***Source: writersdigest.com