How can I get my shorts stories published?

Answer 1

Short stories are very difficult to sell.

Start by purchasing a current copy of Novel and Short Story Writer's Market.

If you have a large collection of short stories, you can try to sell them to a publisher as an anthology. Look for agents/editors who are interested in short stories and anthologies.

Otherwise, try magazine and online markets.

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Answer 2

I can't tell you where to send it, because I don't know what it is about. You will want to research journals and magazines that publish in the same genre as your story-- really look for things that print similar works. Each publisher will also have their own length guidelines-- some publications can support much longer pieces than others, so look for one that matches this as well!

You do not need to copyright your work before you begin submitting it to journals. In fact, it is looked upon as the mark of an amatuer by many editors, agents, and publishers. They will submit the paperwork when they accept your story. No legitimate companies will steal your ideas. Ideas are a dime a dozen, and they have all been done before-- the key is to take on the idea with a fresh voice!

To begin your research, take a look at the current edition of the book "Writer's Market". It is a fairly comprehensive listing of locations to submit work. Then, head down to your local public library and see if you can track down copies. Make sure it is appropriate or it will be a waste of time and postage to submit.

Each publisher has different submission guidelines, so make sure to research the specifics. Oftentimes, they are now on the web so it's much easier. Most only want you to submit one story in each submission package, and they generally have length guidelines as well.

Do not submit your story to multiple publications simultaneously unless you specify it in your cover letter and you are sure that the particular publishers accept simultaneous submissions.

For formatting your story and manuscript, see if you can locate a copy of "Formatting & Submitting Your Manuscript" (which is actually published by the folks at Writer's Market). It's my favorite reference for all sorts of literary queries. I write poetry primarily, but my submission package generally includes a cover letter introducing myself and the work that I have enclosed, plus my poems (each page having my name, address, and the page number at the top). Like "Writer's Market", many public libraries have this book in their reference section!

It could take a long time, and be prepared for multiple rejections. Such is the life of an author! But, if you are persistant, you will find a home for your story.

Let me also suggest checking out the website http://www.anotherealm.com/prededitors/ to help you avoid other scams in every aspect of writing. It isn't the absolute authority, but it can be very helpful for research.

Answer 3

A place to start is the list of publications listed at the back of Best American Short Stories, any edition. Also, I think newpages.com has a similar complete list.

Answer 4

Best American Short Stories is also a great place to study how the good ones are done...

Answer 5

Stories about shorts, huh.

Good luck..

Maybe get someone to proofread your stories before you submit them to a publisher...

Cheers

Answer 6

Depends on the genre. If they are literary, submit to literary magazines. If they are genre, submit to genre. For example, a horror story, submit to horror magazines.

If you google "magazine guidelines" you'll find some links.