Flash fiction is a unique and challenging genre of fiction that requires writers to create a complete story in just a few hundred words. In such a short amount of space, every element of the story must work together to create a compelling and satisfying narrative. Despite their brevity, flash fiction stories can still be powerful and moving, hence the need to hone the skills required to write one. In this article, we will explore some tips on how to write a winning flash fiction contest story.

1. Start with a clear idea of your character: Because of the limited word count in flash fiction, there simply isn't enough space to develop multiple characters fully. That's why it's essential to focus on a single character and develop them as fully as possible. Make sure you know your character's backstory, motivations, and personality traits, and use these to drive the story forward. What motivates your character? What are their strengths and weaknesses? What do they want? What are their flaws? Knowing these things about your character will help you make every word count.

2. Show, don't tell: In flash fiction, there isn't much room for exposition. Instead of telling the reader about your character, show them through their actions and thoughts. For example, if your character is angry, don't say "he was angry." Instead, show his anger through his actions, such as clenching his fists or his nose flaring. Use your character's actions and dialogue to reveal their personality, rather than simply telling the reader what kind of person they are. This will help create a more immersive and engaging reading experience. Here’s a post with more detailed examples on how to show and not tell: https://www.instagram.com/p/CqDdM8monez/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

3. Use Dialogue Effectively Dialogue: Dialogue can be a powerful tool for character development in flash fiction. It can reveal a character's thoughts, motivations, and feelings in just a few words. However, in such a short space, it's important to use dialogue effectively. Every word must count. Make sure your character's dialogue is concise, impactful, and contributes to the story's overall message. Use concise language to convey the most amount of meaning with the fewest words possible. Eliminate unnecessary adjectives and adverbs and focus on using strong verbs and descriptive nouns.

4. Create a twist or surprise ending: One way to make your flash fiction stand out is by creating a twist or surprise ending. This can be challenging to achieve in such a limited space, but it's possible with careful planning. Think about what the reader expects to happen and then subvert those expectations through conflict, tension and suspense in a surprising way that coheres with the story.

5. Edit: Once you've written your first draft, it's time to edit thoroughly. Cut out any unnecessary words or sentences and ensure that every word adds value to the story. Pay attention to pacing and ensure that the story flows smoothly. Finally, have someone whose command of the language you trust read it for mechanical accuracy before turning in your submission.

In conclusion, writing a winning flash fiction story for a contest requires careful planning, concise writing, and strong character development. By following these tips, you can craft a compelling story that stands out from the crowd. Good luck with your next flash fiction contest!