Write a Short Story in a Weekend - CH 1
Setting Up for Success
Chapter 1: Setting Up for Success
Writing a short story on a weekend might sound crazy, but with the right preparation, you may be amazed at how productive and creative you can be. This chapter will guide you in a strong foundation for your weekend of writing.
The thing that I like the most is the low word count; if done correctly, they can still (or finally) give a good number of reads and followers.
And even the small footprint it makes on my time provides great start-to-finish practice that can be done 52 times in a year.
Step 1. Pick An Idea
Usually, I grab a blank sheet of paper for a think session to come up with a story idea, if one hadn’t already come to me in the previous day of life.
Choosing the story idea is the first and most exciting step. It doesn’t need to be the perfect idea—just one that sparks curiosity or excitement. Write out an outline of 5-7 plot parts.
Look Around. Draw inspiration from your daily life, current events, or even a snippet of overheard conversation.
Use Prompts Try writing prompts from Medium, the Creative Pen, and many others.
Step 2. Plan The Time
The weekend is always busy, but carving out focused blocks of time yields results. Here's a possible breakdown.
Friday Evening- Blank paper idea generation and quick outline.
Saturday Morning. Write Act 1.
Saturday Afternoon. Write Act 2.
Sunday Morning. Write Act 3.
Sunday Afternoon. I revise and polish until I am happy with it.
Adapt this schedule to suit your own energy levels. If mornings are your creative peak, prioritize those. Even if it takes the whole day, you are adding assets to your portfolio.
Step 3. Eliminate Distractions
Distractions don’t play well with focused writing. We need to create a productive environment.
The Workspace. Whether it’s a quiet room or your favorite café, pick a spot where you can focus.
Turn Off Notifications. Silence the phone ring and notifications.
Tools for Focus. Apps like Pomodoro can keep us on track.
Chapter 1 Summary Checklist
Have your laptop, notebook, and favorite pen ready. If you write on a computer, consider software like Scrivener or Google Docs.
Choose a story idea. Write it in one sentence.
Outline key plot points (no more than 5-7).
Block off your writing times.
Silence your phone and limit social media time