Writing a good story is a craft that requires thought, organization and a little bit of creativity. A story is different than simply an essay. An essay recounts events and spells out facts and or opinions, whereas a story circles around an event. Here are some tips to help you to write the type of story we are looking for:

 

Keep it simple. Don't try to make a whole lot of points. Instead focus on a slice or vignette in your life; possibly an aha moment.

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Please show, not tell, your story. The actions of the story should unfold, thus releasing the emotion and facts. Remember, a story has a clear beginning, middle and end. Develop your characters--DIALOGUE IS ENCOURAGED, and readers can imagine events better when they are "hearing" what people actually said.

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Facts are great, but don't forgot to include some description. Use your senses. Take the reader to your world. Use active, exciting verbs.

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Feelings are the core of a good story. Make sure you are sharing not just what you are experiencing, but how you are experiencing it. It needs to be real and raw.

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Do not spell out your lessons at length if they can be left implied. Readers are intelligent--let them come to their own conclusions. Be a sharer--not a preacher.

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Non-cliche metaphors and creative writing are encouraged, as long as they do not detract from the story. They should be natural, not forced, and they can help to paint a picture in the reader's mind.