Short Story Writing Guidelines for Christian and Historical Themes

SHORT STORY WRITING

Themes for essays, short stories, and poetry may be evangelistic, inspirational, Biblical, Christian growth, patriotic, or historical.

Please write the THEME of the essay, short story, and poetry on the Judge’s Forms where indicated.

The contestant writes and submits a fiction composition. The story may be based on real experience; it may be purely imaginary; or it may be a fictionalized report of a historical event.

1. The story MUST have an evangelistic, Biblical, Christian growth, patriotic, or historical theme.

2. The story must have been written after the termination of the previous International Convention and must be the original work of the student.

3. Plagiarism of any kind will automatically disqualify the entry.

4. A significant portion of the story must be written during school hours to verify authenticity.

5. One entry per contestant.

Checklist for Short Story:

1. Length - 600-1,000 words

2. Format - Computer or typewriter, double-spaced on plain white paper; one full inch margin on all sides. On a computer, use 10- to 12-point type and a letter-quality printer.
   Recommended fonts: Times New Roman, Helvetica, or Arial. No heavy, bold, or fancy fonts. On a typewriter, a 50-space line equals 10 words; a 60-space line equals 12 words.

3. Copies - Three (3) copies of the short story must be submitted as an early entry.

4. Creative Composition Affidavit (CF28) attached to entry and properly signed. You will need three (3) copies of the Creative Composition Affidavit form; attach one copy to each copy of your short story.

5. Three (3) copies of JUDGE'S FORMS (CF27) are required at the Regional and International Convention.

All entries are to be uploaded to the RSC program and/or to internet resources.

HINTS FROM THE SHORT STORY JUDGES
Judges look for stories that are original and imaginative yet believable. It is important that your Short Story contains a balance of all the elements of narrative fiction: plot, setting, characterization, conflict, and resolution. It should not overemphasize one to the detriment of the others. Because of space limitations, it is important that you develop each facet of your story carefully and thoughtfully, paying particular attention to your choice of words. Use words economically, that is, do not use several trite, colorless words when one strong, imaginative word could replace them and enhance the tone of your story. Neither should you waste good words. Make each one count. Consider it carefully. Is it there for a reason? Is it used accurately? Does it tell the reader exactly what you want him to know, or does he have to guess at your meaning? When you are satisfied that your story says what you want it to say, check it carefully to eliminate errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling. Also, check the word count, since judges will subtract points if you exceed the limits.