Last month, we considered the type of story required to elevate you from the vast pile of entries a judge receives, onto the shortlist and up to the top of the podium. We’re now going to break things down and take elements of a short story, and show you how to ensure each one is spot on.
Title
Does a title matter? Surely it’s the story that’s the important factor? It is, but an eye-catching title instantly hooks the judge’s interest and makes them curious to know more about your tale.
Though, be careful of giving away too much in the title. For example, your story might be about a woman whose every move is being sabotaged. She has no idea who is behind it, but if your title is ‘Sibling Rivalry’, and she only has one sibling, it acts as an immediate signpost.
A bold beginning
As a judge, whenever I settle down to read an entry, I’m looking for a story that immediately
