Writing

How to Outline a Short Story in 4 Steps

Written by MasterClass

Last updated: Aug 30, 2021 • 4 min read

Outlines are a tremendously valuable resource when writing fiction. The clear plan an outline provides will make your creative writing more fluid, efficient, and even spontaneous. As you gather story ideas, follow your inspiration, but resist the urge to start writing the first draft of your short story without a plan. A great short story begins with an outline.