How Long Should a Short Story Be Word Count

What are the typical word count ranges for short stories?

Short stories occupy a unique space in the literary world, offering readers a complete narrative experience in a compact format. Understanding the typical word count ranges for short stories is essential for both aspiring and established writers. These ranges provide a framework for crafting stories that meet reader expectations and industry standards.

The typical word count ranges for short stories can be broadly categorized into several tiers:

Flash Fiction: These are extremely brief stories, typically under 1,000 words. Flash fiction challenges writers to convey a complete narrative arc in a highly condensed format. Some publications even specify subcategories within flash fiction, such as “micro-fiction” (under 300 words) or “sudden fiction” (300-750 words).

Short Short Stories: Also known as “mini-sagas,” these stories generally fall between 1,000 and 2,500 words. They offer slightly more room for character development and plot complexity than flash fiction while still maintaining a tight focus.

Traditional Short Stories: The most common range for short stories is between 2,500 and 7,500 words. This length allows for more detailed storytelling, including deeper character development, more complex plots, and richer settings.

Novelettes: Ranging from 7,500 to 17,500 words, novelettes bridge the gap between short stories and novellas. They provide enough space for multiple subplots and more extensive world-building.

Novellas: While some consider novellas a separate category from short stories, others include them in the broader short fiction spectrum. Novellas typically range from 17,500 to 40,000 words, offering a more immersive reading experience while still being shorter than full-length novels.

It’s important to note that these ranges are not set in stone and can vary depending on the publication, genre, or specific writing contest guidelines. Some literary magazines or anthologies might have their own defined word count limits that differ from these general ranges.

For writers, understanding these typical ranges serves several purposes. Firstly, it helps in planning and structuring a story. Knowing the target word count can guide decisions about plot complexity, character development, and pacing. Secondly, it aids in selecting appropriate markets for submission. Many publications have specific word count requirements, and tailoring stories to these guidelines increases the chances of acceptance.

Readers also benefit from these established ranges. They provide a sense of what to expect in terms of reading time and story depth. A reader picking up a flash fiction piece knows they’re in for a quick, intense burst of storytelling, while someone selecting a novelette can anticipate a more extended engagement with the narrative.

The evolution of digital publishing has somewhat blurred the lines of traditional word count ranges. Online platforms often have more flexibility in the lengths they accept, leading to a wider variety of story sizes. However, the core ranges remain influential in shaping reader and industry expectations.

For new writers, it’s advisable to start with shorter forms and gradually work up to longer pieces. This approach allows for honing essential skills like concise storytelling, effective characterization, and tight plotting. As writers gain experience, they can experiment with different lengths to find their sweet spot or challenge themselves with unfamiliar formats.

Understanding word count ranges is just the first step in crafting compelling short stories. The next sections will delve into how genre and publishing medium influence these ranges, specific guidelines for different types of short fiction, and how to effectively work within these constraints to create impactful narratives.

How do genre and publishing medium affect short story length?

The length of a short story is not solely determined by arbitrary word count ranges. Both the genre in which the story is written and the medium through which it’s published play significant roles in shaping its length. Understanding these influences is crucial for writers aiming to craft stories that resonate with their target audience and meet industry expectations.

Genre Impact on Short Story Length

Different genres have distinct conventions and reader expectations that influence the typical length of short stories within that category. Here’s how various genres tend to affect short story length:

Science Fiction and Fantasy: These genres often require more extensive world-building and explanation of unique concepts. As a result, science fiction and fantasy short stories tend to be on the longer side, frequently falling in the 4,000 to 7,500 word range. Some publications specializing in these genres even accept stories up to 10,000 words or more.

Literary Fiction: Literary short stories can vary widely in length but often fall in the 3,000 to 6,000 word range. This length allows for the exploration of complex themes and character development that are hallmarks of literary fiction.

Mystery and Crime: These genres often work well in the 2,500 to 5,000 word range. This length provides enough space for plot twists and reveals while maintaining the tight pacing expected in mystery stories.

Horror: Horror stories can be effective across various lengths, from brief, intense flash fiction pieces to longer, atmospheric tales. However, many horror short stories fall in the 3,000 to 7,000 word range.

Romance: Short romance stories often range from 1,500 to 4,000 words, focusing on the central relationship and emotional arc without extensive subplots.

Historical Fiction: Due to the need for period details and context, historical fiction short stories tend to be longer, often ranging from 4,000 to 7,500 words.

It’s important to note that these are general trends rather than strict rules. Exceptional stories in any genre can successfully deviate from these norms.

Publishing Medium and Its Effect on Story Length

The medium through which a short story is published can significantly influence its length:

Print Magazines and Anthologies: Traditional print publications often have strict word count limits due to space constraints. Many literary magazines prefer stories between 2,500 and 5,000 words, though this can vary.

Online Magazines: Digital publications generally have more flexibility in terms of word count. Some accept a wider range of lengths, from flash fiction to novelettes. However, many still maintain guidelines similar to print magazines to ensure readability on digital devices.

E-book Singles: The rise of e-books has created a market for standalone short stories and novellas. These digital-only publications often allow for longer pieces, ranging from 5,000 to 30,000 words or more.

Mobile Apps and Social Media: Platforms designed for quick, on-the-go reading often favor very short pieces. Flash fiction and stories under 1,000 words are popular in these formats.

Podcasts and Audio Platforms: Audio short story markets often prefer pieces that can be comfortably listened to in a single sitting, typically ranging from 2,000 to 6,000 words.

Writing Contests: Many short story competitions have specific word count requirements, which can range from flash fiction to longer pieces up to 7,500 words or more.

The interplay between genre and publishing medium can create unique opportunities and challenges for writers. For instance, a science fiction story intended for a print magazine might need to be more concise than one written for an online sci-fi publication. Similarly, a romance story for a mobile reading app would likely be much shorter than one intended for an e-book single.

Writers should consider both genre conventions and the intended publishing medium when planning their stories. This consideration ensures that the narrative fits well within the expected format while still delivering a satisfying reading experience.

Additionally, the evolving landscape of digital publishing continues to influence story lengths. The rise of serialized fiction on platforms like Wattpad or Radish has created demand for episodic short-form content, often ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 words per installment.

Understanding these genre and medium-specific trends allows writers to tailor their work effectively. It also helps in identifying the most suitable markets for their stories. However, it’s equally important for writers to remember that compelling storytelling should always take precedence over strict adherence to word count norms. A well-crafted story that engages readers can often find its place regardless of its exact length.

What are the word count guidelines for different types of short fiction?

Understanding the specific word count guidelines for various types of short fiction is essential for writers aiming to craft stories that fit within established categories. These guidelines not only help in structuring narratives but also in targeting appropriate markets for publication. Let’s explore the word count ranges for different types of short fiction, along with their characteristics and potential markets.

Flash Fiction

Word Count: Typically under 1,000 words
Characteristics: Intense focus, often with a twist or sudden insight
Potential Markets: Online literary magazines, flash fiction contests, social media platforms

Flash fiction challenges writers to tell a complete story in an extremely condensed format. These pieces often rely on implication and suggestion rather than extensive detail. Some publications further categorize flash fiction:

Micro-fiction: Under 300 words
Sudden Fiction: 300-750 words

Flash fiction has gained popularity in the digital age due to its suitability for quick online reading. Many literary magazines now have dedicated flash fiction sections, and some publications exclusively feature this format.

Short Short Stories

Word Count: 1,000-2,500 words
Characteristics: Tight focus, limited characters, single plot line
Potential Markets: Literary magazines, genre-specific publications, anthologies

Short short stories provide slightly more room for development than flash fiction while still maintaining a concentrated narrative. These stories often focus on a single scene or moment, exploring it in greater depth than flash fiction allows.

Traditional Short Stories

Word Count: 2,500-7,500 words
Characteristics: More developed characters and plot, room for subplots
Potential Markets: Literary journals, genre magazines, writing contests

This is the most common range for short stories and provides space for more complex storytelling. Writers can develop characters more fully, include multiple scenes, and explore themes in greater depth.

Novelettes

Word Count: 7,500-17,500 words
Characteristics: Multiple characters, subplots, more extensive world-building
Potential Markets: Science fiction and fantasy magazines, digital-first publishers, self-publishing platforms

Novelettes offer a middle ground between short stories and novellas. They allow for more intricate plots and character development while still being shorter than a full novella.

Novellas

Word Count: 17,500-40,000 words
Characteristics: Complex plot, well-developed characters, significant world-building
Potential Markets: Novella-specific publishers, e-book singles, self-publishing platforms

While some consider novellas a separate category from short stories, they are often included in discussions of short fiction. Novellas provide enough space for in-depth storytelling while still being shorter than full-length novels.

It’s important to note that these guidelines can vary depending on the specific publication or contest. Here’s a table summarizing some popular markets and their word count preferences:

Market Type	Preferred Word Count Range
The New Yorker	2,000-6,000 words
Clarkesworld (Sci-Fi)	1,000-16,000 words
Ellery Queen’s Mystery Magazine	2,500-8,000 words
Glimmer Train	2,000-12,000 words
Tin House	2,000-7,000 words

Writers should always check the specific guidelines of their target markets, as these can change over time and may have unique requirements.

When working within these word count guidelines, writers face both challenges and opportunities:

Challenges:
1. Conveying a complete story arc within limited space
2. Developing characters sufficiently without excessive detail
3. Balancing description and action to maintain pacing

Opportunities:
1. Honing skills in concise, impactful writing
2. Experimenting with different storytelling techniques
3. Producing a higher volume of work, potentially increasing publication chances

For writers new to short fiction, starting with shorter forms like flash fiction or short short stories can be beneficial. These formats force writers to focus on essential elements of storytelling, helping to develop skills in tight plotting and efficient character development. As writers gain experience, they can experiment with longer forms, gradually expanding their storytelling scope.

It’s also worth noting that digital publishing has somewhat blurred the lines between these categories. Some online platforms are more flexible with word counts, allowing writers to focus more on telling the story at its natural length rather than strictly adhering to traditional categories.

Ultimately, while these word count guidelines provide a useful framework, the quality of the storytelling remains paramount. A well-crafted story that engages readers and delivers a satisfying narrative experience can often find a home regardless of its exact word count. Writers should use these guidelines as a starting point but not be afraid to let their stories develop organically within reason.

Understanding these word count guidelines is just one aspect of crafting successful short fiction. The next sections will explore how word counts have varied in famous short stories over time and what factors writers should consider when determining the appropriate length for their stories.

How have word counts of famous short stories varied over time?

The evolution of short story word counts over time reflects changing literary trends, publishing norms, and reader preferences. Examining the word counts of famous short stories from different eras provides valuable insights into these shifts and offers inspiration for contemporary writers. This historical perspective also demonstrates the enduring flexibility of the short story format.

Let’s explore how word counts have varied in famous short stories across different periods:

19th Century

During this era, short stories were often longer than what we consider typical today. Many were serialized in magazines or published in collections, allowing for more extensive narratives.

Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Fall of the House of Usher” (1839): Approximately 7,200 words
Guy de Maupassant’s “The Necklace” (1884): About 5,400 words
Anton Chekhov’s “The Lady with the Dog” (1899): Roughly 6,800 words

These stories, now considered classics, demonstrate that 19th-century short fiction often fell into what we’d now categorize as the upper range of traditional short stories or even novelettes.

Early 20th Century

The early 20th century saw a continuation of longer short stories, but also the emergence of more concise forms.

James Joyce’s “The Dead” (1914): Approximately 15,600 words
Ernest Hemingway’s “The Snows of Kilimanjaro” (1936): About 10,000 words
Katherine Mansfield’s “The Garden Party” (1922): Roughly 5,000 words

This period showcases a wide range of word counts, from Mansfield’s more concise approach to Joyce’s longer, more detailed narrative.

Mid-20th Century

The mid-20th century saw a trend towards more concise storytelling, influenced by modernist and minimalist styles.

Shirley Jackson’s “The Lottery” (1948): Approximately 3,400 words
Ray Bradbury’s “A Sound of Thunder” (1952): About 4,500 words
Flannery O’Connor’s “A Good Man Is Hard to Find” (1953): Roughly 6,500 words

These stories demonstrate a move towards more compact narratives, with Jackson’s “The Lottery” being particularly concise for its impact.

Late 20th Century to Present

Contemporary short fiction shows a wide range of word counts, reflecting diverse styles and publishing platforms.

Raymond Carver’s “Cathedral” (1981): Approximately 4,800 words
Jhumpa Lahiri’s “Interpreter of Maladies” (1999): About 8,000 words
George Saunders’ “Escape from Spiderhead” (2010): Roughly 11,000 words

Modern short stories continue to vary widely in length, with some authors pushing the boundaries of traditional word count categories.

This historical overview reveals several trends:

1. Gradual Reduction in Average Length: There’s a general trend towards shorter stories over time, though with significant variations.

2. Increased Range of Acceptable Lengths: Contemporary short fiction embraces a wider range of word counts, from flash fiction to longer pieces.

3. Genre Influence: Science fiction and fantasy stories (like Bradbury’s) often tend to be longer due to world-building requirements.

4. Style and Technique Impact: Minimalist authors like Carver often produce shorter works, while more descriptive or experimental writers may create longer pieces.

5. Publishing Medium Effects: The rise of online publishing has created more opportunities for both very short and longer forms of short fiction.

It’s important to note that these famous stories often became renowned for their content and style rather than adhering to specific word count guidelines. Their enduring popularity demonstrates that compelling storytelling can transcend rigid length categories.

For contemporary writers, this historical perspective offers several insights:

Flexibility in Storytelling: The variation in word counts among classic stories shows that there’s no single “correct” length for a short story. Writers should focus on telling their story effectively, whether it requires 2,000 or 12,000 words.

Evolution of Reader Expectations: Modern readers, accustomed to digital content, may have different attention spans compared to 19th-century audiences. This shift might influence optimal story lengths for contemporary markets.

Importance of Concision: The trend towards shorter stories over time highlights the value of concise, impactful writing. Even in longer pieces, every word should contribute meaningfully to the narrative.

Genre Considerations: Different genres have developed their own norms regarding length. Science fiction and fantasy stories, for instance, often run longer thancontemporary literary fiction pieces.

Market Awareness: Understanding historical trends helps writers gauge how their work fits into the broader context of short fiction. This awareness can be valuable when selecting markets for submission.

While these historical examples provide context, it’s crucial for modern writers to also consider current market trends and reader preferences. Many contemporary publications have specific word count requirements that may differ from historical norms.

Ultimately, the varied word counts of famous short stories throughout history demonstrate the flexibility and enduring appeal of the format. They show that great stories can be told at various lengths, encouraging writers to focus on crafting compelling narratives rather than rigidly adhering to word count limits.

What factors should writers consider when determining story length?

Determining the appropriate length for a short story is a crucial decision that impacts both the writing process and the story’s potential for publication. Writers must balance creative vision with practical considerations to craft stories that resonate with readers and meet industry standards. Here are the key factors writers should consider when deciding on their story’s length:

Narrative Complexity

The complexity of your plot is a primary determinant of story length. More intricate storylines with multiple subplots or twists generally require more words to develop fully. Consider the following:

Simple, Linear Plots: These often work well in shorter formats, such as flash fiction or short short stories.
Multi-layered Narratives: Stories with multiple plot threads or complex character relationships typically need more space, fitting better into traditional short story or novelette lengths.

Character Development

The depth of character exploration directly influences story length:

Single Character Focus: Stories centered on one character’s experience or transformation can often be told more concisely.
Ensemble Casts: Narratives featuring multiple important characters usually require more words to develop each character sufficiently.

World-building Requirements

The amount of world-building necessary varies significantly across genres and story concepts:

Contemporary Realistic Fiction: Often requires less explicit world-building, allowing for shorter lengths.
Science Fiction and Fantasy: These genres frequently need more extensive world-building, leading to longer word counts.

Thematic Depth

The complexity and number of themes you wish to explore affect the story’s length:

Single Theme: A story focusing on one central theme can often be conveyed effectively in a shorter format.
Multiple or Complex Themes: Exploring several interconnected themes or delving deep into a complex issue typically requires more words.

Pacing and Tension

The rhythm and tension of your story play a role in determining its ideal length:

Fast-paced, High-tension Stories: These can often maintain reader engagement at shorter lengths.
Slow-burn Narratives: Stories that build tension gradually may require more words to achieve the desired effect.

Target Market and Publication Goals

Consider where you intend to submit or publish your story:

Specific Publications: Many magazines and journals have set word count limits. Research your target markets and tailor your story length accordingly.
Contests: Writing competitions often have strict word count requirements.
Self-publishing: If you plan to self-publish, you have more flexibility but should still consider reader expectations for your genre.

Reader Engagement and Attention Span

Think about your target audience and how they typically consume content:

Online Readers: Often prefer shorter, more digestible content.
Print Magazine Readers: May be open to slightly longer stories.
E-book Readers: Might be willing to engage with longer short fiction formats like novelettes.

Storytelling Style

Your writing style influences the amount of space needed to tell your story effectively:

Minimalist Style: Often allows for shorter word counts while still conveying complex ideas.
Descriptive or Lyrical Prose: May require more words to create the desired atmosphere and depth.

Narrative Purpose

Consider what you’re trying to achieve with your story:

Emotional Impact: Sometimes, a brief, powerful story can have a stronger emotional impact than a longer piece.
Intellectual Exploration: More complex ideas might require extended treatment to fully explore.

Genre Conventions

Different genres have different expectations regarding length:

Literary Fiction: Often allows for a wide range of lengths, from flash fiction to longer short stories.
Genre Fiction: Specific genres like mystery or romance may have more defined length expectations.

Personal Strengths and Preferences

Be aware of your own strengths and limitations as a writer:

Concise Writing: If you excel at tight, impactful prose, you might lean towards shorter forms.
Expansive Storytelling: If your strength lies in rich, detailed narratives, longer formats might suit you better.

Revision Potential

Consider how much your story might change during the revision process:

Expansion: Some stories grow as you develop ideas and characters more fully.
Contraction: Others benefit from tightening and might end up shorter than initially planned.

When weighing these factors, it’s important to remember that they often interact and influence each other. A complex plot in a richly built world with multiple characters will naturally tend towards a longer word count. Conversely, a focused character study set in a familiar environment might be more suited to a shorter format.

Ultimately, the goal is to find the sweet spot where your story is told effectively without feeling rushed or padded. This often involves a process of writing, revising, and sometimes even rewriting to find the optimal length.

Here’s a practical approach to determining your story’s length:

1. Draft Without Constraints: Write your first draft without worrying too much about word count. Let the story develop naturally.

2. Assess the Draft: Once complete, evaluate which elements are essential and which might be superfluous.

3. Consider Your Markets: Research potential publication venues and their word count requirements.

4. Revise Accordingly: Expand or contract your story based on your assessment and target markets, ensuring that every word serves the narrative.

5. Seek Feedback: Get opinions from beta readers or writing groups on whether the story feels complete at its current length.

6. Be Flexible: Be prepared to adjust your story’s length if it serves the narrative better. Sometimes, a short story might evolve into a novelette, or vice versa.

Remember, while these factors are important to consider, they should guide rather than constrain your creative process. The most crucial aspect is that your story is told effectively, engaging readers and conveying your intended message or experience. A well-crafted story that truly needs its word count, whether 1,000 or 15,000 words, will find its audience and its place in the literary world.

How can authors effectively edit their stories to meet word count requirements?

Editing a short story to meet specific word count requirements is a crucial skill for writers, especially when submitting to publications or contests with strict guidelines. This process requires a delicate balance between preserving the story’s essence and adhering to length constraints. Here are effective strategies authors can employ to edit their stories and meet word count requirements:

1. Identify the Core Elements

Before making any cuts, clearly identify the essential components of your story:

Central Conflict: Ensure that the main conflict remains clear and impactful.
Key Characters: Focus on characters crucial to the plot, potentially removing or combining less essential ones.
Critical Scenes: Preserve scenes that drive the plot forward or provide significant character development.

2. Eliminate Redundancies

Look for areas where you’ve repeated information or ideas:

Dialogue: Remove conversations that reiterate previously established points.
Descriptions: Avoid describing the same setting or character multiple times unless the changes are plot-relevant.

3. Tighten Prose

Scrutinize your writing at the sentence level:

Remove Filler Words: Words like “very,” “really,” “just,” and “that” can often be removed without changing the meaning.
Use Strong Verbs: Replace verb phrases with single, powerful verbs. For example, change “He walked quickly” to “He strode.”
Eliminate Adverbs: Often, a strong verb can replace an adverb-verb combination.

4. Streamline Descriptions

While vivid descriptions add color to your story, they can also inflate word count:

Use Specific Details: Choose one or two striking details rather than providing exhaustive descriptions.
Incorporate Description into Action: Blend descriptive elements with plot progression to save words.

5. Condense Dialogue

Dialogue can be a major source of excess words:

Cut Small Talk: Remove greetings, goodbyes, and other conversational filler unless they serve a specific purpose.
Use Dialogue Tags Sparingly: “Said” is often sufficient and can sometimes be omitted entirely if it’s clear who’s speaking.

6. Evaluate Subplots

If your story is significantly over the word limit, consider the role of subplots:

Remove Non-essential Subplots: If a subplot doesn’t directly contribute to the main story arc, consider removing it.
Simplify Complex Subplots: See if you can achieve the same effect with a more streamlined secondary storyline.

7. Start Scenes Later and End Them Earlier

Trim the beginnings and endings of scenes:

Begin in Media Res: Start scenes in the middle of the action rather than with setup.
End on Action or Revelation: Cut any wrapping up or reflection at the end of scenes.

8. Use Implication and Subtext

Let readers infer information rather than stating everything explicitly:

Character Backstory: Hint at a character’s past rather than providing a full history.
Emotional States: Show emotions through actions and dialogue rather than explicit statements.

9. Reconsider Flashbacks and Exposition

Flashbacks and exposition can be word-count heavy:

Integrate Past Information: Weave necessary background information into the current narrative instead of using flashbacks.
Limit Exposition: Provide only the most critical background information.

10. Utilize White Space and Formatting

Sometimes, the illusion of brevity can be created through formatting:

Shorter Paragraphs: Break long paragraphs into shorter ones to create a sense of faster pacing.
Dialogue Spacing: Use line breaks in dialogue to create more white space on the page.

11. Read Aloud

Reading your story aloud can help identify areas of wordiness or redundancy:

Awkward Phrasing: Sentences that are difficult to read aloud often need simplifying.
Pacing Issues: Sections that drag when read aloud might benefit from trimming.

12. Use Technology Tools

Various software tools can assist in identifying areas for improvement:

Word Frequency Analyzers: These can highlight overused words or phrases.
Readability Checkers: Tools that assess the complexity of your writing can help identify overly wordy sections.

13. Consider Structural Changes

If significant cuts are needed, you might need to reconsider the story’s structure:

Narrative Perspective: Switching from third-person to first-person narration (or vice versa) can sometimes lead to a more concise telling.
Timeline Adjustments: Condensing the time frame of your story can help reduce word count.

14. Seek Outside Perspective

Fresh eyes can often spot redundancies or unnecessary elements that you’ve become blind to:

Beta Readers: Ask them specifically to identify parts that seem unnecessary or overly long.
Writing Groups: Participate in critique sessions focused on concision and impact.

15. Take Breaks Between Edits

Stepping away from your story allows you to return with a fresher, more critical eye:

Time Between Drafts: Allow at least a day, preferably longer, between editing sessions.
Fresh Perspective: You’ll often find new areas for improvement with each pass.

When applying these techniques, it’s crucial to maintain the integrity and impact of your story. The goal is not just to meet a word count but to create a tighter, more powerful narrative. Sometimes, cutting a story too severely can rob it of its depth or emotional resonance. If you find that your story cannot be effectively told within the required word count without losing its essence, it may be worth considering alternative markets with different length requirements.

Remember, editing is an iterative process. You may need to go through your story multiple times, focusing on different aspects with each pass. Start with larger structural edits before moving on to line-level revisions.

Lastly, keep different versions of your story as you edit. This allows you to revert changes if needed and potentially submit different versions to markets with varying word count requirements.

By applying these strategies thoughtfully and systematically, authors can effectively edit their stories to meet word count requirements while preserving and often enhancing the core narrative. The result should be a leaner, more impactful story that retains its original vision and resonates strongly with readers.

Where can writers find markets for short stories of various lengths?

Finding the right markets for short stories is a crucial step in a writer’s journey to publication. With the diverse landscape of literary magazines, online platforms, and anthologies, there are numerous opportunities for stories of various lengths. However, navigating this terrain can be challenging. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help writers locate suitable markets for their short fiction:

1. Literary Magazines and Journals

Literary magazines remain a cornerstone of the short story market, offering opportunities for both emerging and established writers.

Print Magazines:
– The New Yorker
– Harper’s Magazine
– The Paris Review
– Granta
– Ploughshares

Online Literary Magazines:
– Narrative Magazine
– The Threepenny Review
– McSweeney’s Internet Tendency
– Guernica
– Electric Literature

Many of these publications accept stories ranging from flash fiction to longer pieces up to 7,000 words or more. Always check their specific submission guidelines for word count requirements.

2. Genre-Specific Publications

For writers working in specific genres, targeted publications offer focused markets:

Science Fiction and Fantasy:
– Clarkesworld
– Asimov’s Science Fiction
– Fantasy & Science Fiction Magazine
– Beneath Ceaseless Skies

Mystery and Crime:
– Ellery Queen’s Mystery Magazine
– Alfred Hitchcock’s Mystery Magazine
– Thriller Magazine

Horror:
– Cemetery Dance
– Nightmare Magazine
– The Dark Magazine

Romance:
– Woman’s World (very short romance stories)
– Romance Magazine

These genre-specific markets often have more flexible word count ranges, sometimes accepting stories up to 17,500 words or more.

3. Online Platforms and Digital Publishers

The digital revolution has created new opportunities for short fiction:

Medium: A platform where writers can self-publish and potentially earn money based on reader engagement.

Amazon Kindle Singles: For longer short fiction (10,000 to 30,000 words), this program offers a way to publish standalone e-books.

Wattpad: A social storytelling platform popular for serialized fiction.

Radish: Another platform for serialized fiction, particularly popular for romance and genre fiction.

4. Anthologies and Collections

Anthologies provide opportunities for themed submissions:

Best American Short Stories: An annual collection of the year’s best short fiction.

Themed Anthologies: Publishers often call for submissions around specific themes or genres.

5. Writing Contests

Many organizations run short story contests, often with specific word count requirements:

The Sunday Times Audible Short Story Award: For stories up to 6,000 words.

Bath Short Story Award: Accepts stories up to 2,200 words.

Bridport Prize: Offers categories for flash fiction and short stories.

6. Literary Agencies

Some literary agencies have begun representing short story collections:

• The Jennifer De Chiara Literary Agency
• Folio Literary Management
• Trident Media Group

While less common, this can be an avenue for writers looking to publish collections rather than individual stories.

7. University-Affiliated Journals

Many universities publish literary journals that accept submissions from writers outside their institution:

• The Kenyon Review (Kenyon College)
• The Iowa Review (University of Iowa)
• Ploughshares (Emerson College)

These journals often have a strong reputation in the literary community and can be excellent markets for literary short fiction.

8. Flash Fiction Specific Markets

For very short stories, there are markets dedicated to flash fiction:

• SmokeLong Quarterly
• Flash Fiction Online
• Vestal Review

These typically accept stories under 1,000 words, with some markets specializing in even shorter pieces.

9. Audio Markets

With the rise of podcasting, there are now markets specifically for audio short stories:

• Escape Pod (Science Fiction)
• PseudoPod (Horror)
• Cast of Wonders (Young Adult)

These markets often prefer stories that work well when read aloud, typically in the 2,000 to 6,000 word range.

10. International Markets

Don’t limit yourself to English-language markets in your home country. Many international publications accept submissions from around the world:

• Malahat Review (Canada)
• Overland (Australia)
• The Stinging Fly (Ireland)

11. Submission Tracking Websites

Several websites aggregate market information and can help you find appropriate venues for your work:

• Duotrope: A subscription-based service that provides extensive market listings and submission tracking.
• Submission Grinder: A free alternative to Duotrope with a comprehensive database of markets.
• Poets & Writers: Offers a free databaseof literary magazines, small presses, and contests.

These resources can be invaluable for finding markets that match your story’s length and genre.

12. Social Media and Writing Communities

Engaging with writing communities can lead to market discoveries:

• Twitter: Follow literary magazines, editors, and writers for submission calls and market news.
• Facebook Groups: Join groups dedicated to short story writers for market discussions and tips.
• Reddit: Subreddits like r/writing and r/pubtips often share market information.

13. Writer’s Digest

This publication regularly features market listings and updates on new opportunities for short fiction writers.

When searching for markets, consider the following tips:

Match Your Story: Ensure your story’s length, genre, and style fit the market’s guidelines.

Read the Publication: Familiarize yourself with the type of stories a market publishes before submitting.

Check Submission Periods: Many markets have specific reading periods or themed submission calls.

Consider Payment: Markets range from token payments to professional rates. Decide what’s acceptable for you.

Watch for Reprint Opportunities: Some markets accept previously published stories, offering a second life for your work.

Simultaneous Submissions: Check each market’s policy on submitting to multiple places at once.

Remember, the landscape of short story markets is constantly evolving. New publications emerge while others close. Regularly updating your market knowledge is crucial for success in placing your stories.

Lastly, don’t overlook the potential of creating your own market. With the rise of self-publishing and online platforms, many writers are finding success in building their own audiences through personal websites, newsletters, or social media channels.

By utilizing these resources and staying informed about market trends, writers can significantly increase their chances of finding the right home for their short stories, regardless of length or genre. The key is persistence, careful research, and a willingness to adapt to the changing literary landscape.