“Writing a saleable short story is more dependent on technique than the luxury allows for writing a novel. I say “luxury” because unlike novel writing, writing a short story allows no time for the characters to develop or situations to arise. Editors are flooded with unsolicited manuscripts and short stories every day, many of which are destined for the rejection pile.“

Many mistakes are common with new writers - characters are inadequate or the technique in itself is faulty - narration of the story is left untidy - length of the story is not often suited. You have to “grab” the editors attention from the first word and make your story sell, this is the only way to make sure that your precious story will not end up on the recycle heap.

Basics

Being able to succeed is like baking a cake, your need all the right ingredients and start with the basics. Start - Middle - End. As like any other profession, you must always start with the basics, this way you will gain the knowledge to gather all the key ingredients. You will learn how to “hook” your readers attention, how to tell your story, create a plot and plan your characters, finding a story title, market research and working with dialogue. Although no planned material is required for the course you will be encouraged to read as much as possible of published work by established writers. With this you will be able to read the sort of material you would like to emulate, and with that in mind we can discuss your reading matter as you progress.

Individual Payment Plan

You can choose to take on an individual payment plan on all home study courses listed, but all course fees must be paid for in advance prior to each lesson being returned. If you should wish to cancel the course at any time no money will be refunded.

Assignments will include writing for the market, create a scene, tension, atmosphere and emotions. Each assignment must include an A4 self-addressed envelope, no material will be returned without it.

There is no time limit on the completion of the course, you can relax writing where ever and whenever you please. The course comprises of twelve lessons and twelve assignments. Each essential to writing, these will help you gain new ideas and skills at developing interesting plots and characters. Although your tutor will encourage you to publish your work; some of you may only want to write for personal pleasure. In this case, all our writers will be offered plenty of advice on marketing a short story, no advice will be offered unless requested.