Quick Answer: How Long is a Short Story?
A short story is 1,000 to 7,500 words (approximately 4-30 pages). Most literary magazines prefer stories between 2,000-5,000 words.
Short Fiction Word Count Categories
| Category | Word Count |
|---|---|
| Micro Fiction | Under 300 |
| Flash Fiction | 300-1,000 |
| Sudden Fiction | 750-2,000 |
| Short Story | 1,000-7,500 |
| Novelette | 7,500-17,500 |
| Novella | 17,500-40,000 |
What Defines a Short Story?
A short story is a complete narrative that can typically be read in one sitting. The Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers Association (SFWA), which presents the Nebula Awards, defines a short story as a work under 7,500 words. Most literary publications and contests use similar parameters.
Beyond word count, short stories have distinct characteristics:
- •Single effect: Edgar Allan Poe argued a short story should create a single emotional effect
- •Limited cast: Usually 1-3 main characters
- •Focused plot: One main conflict or situation
- •Compressed timeline: Often covers hours, days, or weeks rather than years
- •Single setting: Often takes place in one location or a few locations
- •Economy of language: Every word must earn its place
Ideal Short Story Length by Venue
Literary Magazines
Most literary magazines prefer stories between 2,000-5,000 words. This is the "sweet spot" that allows for character development while fitting magazine formats.
Genre Magazines (SF/F/Horror)
Science fiction, fantasy, and horror markets often accept longer works. Markets like Clarkesworld and Tor.com publish stories up to novelette length.
Writing Contests
Contest limits vary widely. Flash fiction contests typically cap at under 1,000 words, while standard short story contests usually accept 3,000-5,000 words. Always check specific contest guidelines before submitting.
Popular Magazine Word Limits
Literary Fiction
- The New Yorker: Up to 7,500
- Granta: Under 5,000
- One Story: 3,000-8,000
- Ploughshares: Up to 6,000
- Zoetrope: 7,000 max
Science Fiction & Fantasy
- Clarkesworld: 1,000-22,000
- Strange Horizons: Up to 10,000
- Tor.com: 2,000-17,500
- Lightspeed: 1,500-10,000
- Asimov's: Up to 20,000
Horror
- Nightmare: Up to 7,500
- The Dark: 2,000-6,000
- Pseudopod: 2,000-6,000
- Cemetery Dance: 5,000 max
Mystery & Crime
- Ellery Queen: Up to 12,000
- Alfred Hitchcock: Up to 12,000
- Mystery Magazine: 1,500-7,500
Short Story Word Count by Genre
Literary Fiction
Typically 2,000-6,000 words. Values depth over action, using word count for character introspection and thematic exploration.
Science Fiction
Often 3,000-7,500 words. Worldbuilding requires space; hard SF with technical concepts may need extra words.
Fantasy
Typically 3,000-7,500 words. Like SF, worldbuilding takes space. Epic fantasy elements push toward the upper limit.
Horror
Often shorter at 2,000-5,000 words. The genre relies on tension and pacing; longer stories can dilute the scare factor.
Romance
Varies widely: 1,500-7,500 words. Strong tradition of flash and sudden fiction alongside longer character-driven stories.
Mystery/Crime
Often 4,000-7,500 words. Requires setup, clues, and resolution. Shorter mysteries need tight plotting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many words is a short story?
Typically 1,000 to 7,500 words. The SFWA defines short stories as under 7,500 words. Most literary magazines accept stories between 2,000-5,000 words.
What is the minimum word count for a short story?
There's no strict minimum, but most short stories are at least 1,000 words. Stories under 1,000 words are typically classified as flash fiction.
How many pages is a short story?
Typically 4-30 pages in standard manuscript format (250 words per page). A 3,000-word story is about 12 pages.
What is the best length for a short story submission?
Most literary magazines prefer stories between 2,000-5,000 words. Always check specific publication guidelines.
What's the difference between a short story and flash fiction?
Flash fiction is typically under 1,000 words, while short stories range from 1,000-7,500 words. Flash focuses on a single moment; short stories have more room for development.
Can a short story be 10,000 words?
At 10,000 words, your story is entering novelette territory (7,500-17,500 words). Some SF/F markets accept longer pieces, but most define short stories as under 7,500 words.
How long does it take to write a short story?
This varies widely. First drafts can take anywhere from a few hours to several weeks. Most writers spend significant time revising.
Tips for Managing Short Story Length
- •Start late, end early. Begin your story as close to the climax as possible. End shortly after the turning point.
- •Limit your cast. Each character takes words to establish. Keep only essential characters.
- •Choose one conflict. Short stories work best with a single central conflict.
- •Cut the warm-up. First drafts often contain "throat-clearing." Cut the first paragraph or page.
- •Trust your readers. Don't over-explain. Readers can fill in gaps.
- •Use scene breaks strategically. Transition between scenes to skip unnecessary time.
- •Every word earns its place. In revision, question every sentence. Does it advance plot or reveal character?
Track Your Short Story's Progress
Use our free word counter to track your story length, set writing goals, and ensure you hit submission requirements.
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