How many words is a short story? A short story typically contains between 1,000 and 7,500 words, depending on the genre and purpose. Some shorter stories may be under 1,000 words, while longer short stories approach novella length.
Short Story Word Count Ranges
| Type | Word Count |
|---|---|
| Flash Fiction | 300–1,000 |
| 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 brief piece of fiction that focuses on a single idea, character, or event. It is designed to be read in one sitting.
How Long Does It Take to Write a Short Story?
Writing a short story can take anywhere from a few hours to several days, depending on complexity and editing.
Helpful Writing Tools
FAQ
What is the average length of a short story? Most short stories are between 1,000 and 7,500 words.
Can a short story be under 1,000 words? Yes, very short stories are often called flash fiction.