Short Story Planner

What's Included

This streamlined template is designed specifically for short fiction (1,000-10,000 words), helping you plan tight, focused stories.

Story at a Glance

• Working title and target word count
• Genre and target publication
• One-sentence summary format

The Single Effect

Based on Edgar Allan Poe's principle - identify the emotion or impression you want readers to feel and ensure everything contributes to it.

Streamlined Character Section

Short stories focus on one main character:

• One defining trait
• What they want vs. what they need
• Flaw or misbelief
• Only relevant background

Conflict Focus

Clear conflict identification with type selection (person vs. person, self, nature, society, technology, supernatural).

Three Structure Options

• Classic: Hook, setup, inciting incident, rising action, climax, resolution
• Freytag's Pyramid: 5-part structure
• In Media Res: Start in the middle of action

Scene Breakdown

Plan 1-3 scenes with location, characters, events, and word count targets.

Ending Workshop

• Ending type selection (resolved, open, twist, circular, ambiguous)
• Space for brainstorming multiple endings
• Ending evaluation criteria

Theme & Meaning

Explore what your story is really about beyond the plot.

Word Count Allocation

Plan your word budget by section with percentage guidelines.

Opening & Closing Lines

Draft multiple options for your crucial first and last lines.

Economy Checklist

Ensure every element serves multiple purposes and cut ruthlessly.

Revision Focus Points

Structured revision approach from first draft through polish.

Submission Tracking

Track where you've submitted with dates and responses.