Top 29 Short Story Writer Interview Questions and Answers [Updated 2025]
Andre Mendes
•
March 30, 2025
Delve into the art of storytelling with our expertly curated list of interview questions for aspiring short story writers. This post uncovers the most common questions asked in short story writer interviews, providing you with insightful example answers and practical tips to help you respond confidently and effectively. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting out, prepare to captivate your interviewers with compelling narratives and thoughtful reflections.
Download Short Story Writer Interview Questions in PDF
To make your preparation even more convenient, we've compiled all these top Short Story Writerinterview questions and answers into a handy PDF.
Click the button below to download the PDF and have easy access to these essential questions anytime, anywhere:
List of Short Story Writer Interview Questions
Behavioral Interview Questions
Can you describe a time when you had to overcome a writer's block? What strategies did you use?
How to Answer
- 1
Identify a specific instance of writer's block.
- 2
Explain the emotional or mental state you experienced.
- 3
Share the specific strategy or techniques you employed.
- 4
Mention any outcomes or successes that resulted from your strategy.
- 5
Reflect on how this experience shaped your writing process.
Example Answers
I experienced writer's block while trying to finish a short story about an elderly man reflecting on his life. I felt overwhelmed by the pressure to write something profound. To overcome it, I took a break and changed my environment by going to a local park. I wrote free-hand notes about my character's memories without worrying about structure. This led to new ideas, and I completed the story, which was later published in a literary magazine.
Tell us about an instance where you received criticism on your work. How did you handle it?
How to Answer
- 1
Choose a specific example of criticism you've received.
- 2
Explain your initial reaction honestly but positively.
- 3
Describe how you analyzed the feedback objectively.
- 4
Discuss the steps you took to address the criticism.
- 5
Highlight the outcomes and what you learned from the experience.
Example Answers
In a writing workshop, I received feedback that my character development was weak. Initially, I felt defensive, but I took a moment to reflect. I analyzed the feedback and decided to focus more on backstory and motivation. I revised the story, enhancing character arcs, and received positive responses afterward. This taught me the value of deep character exploration.
Don't Just Read Short Story Writer Questions - Practice Answering Them!
Reading helps, but actual practice is what gets you hired. Our AI feedback system helps you improve your Short Story Writer interview answers in real-time.
Personalized feedback
Unlimited practice
Used by hundreds of successful candidates
Describe a time you collaborated with another writer or artist. What was the outcome?
How to Answer
- 1
Choose a specific project you collaborated on
- 2
Highlight your role and contribution
- 3
Explain the collaborative process and communication
- 4
Discuss any challenges faced and how you overcame them
- 5
Conclude with the results and what you learned from the experience
Example Answers
In a recent project, I collaborated with an illustrator on a children's story. I wrote the narrative while they created the visuals. We held weekly discussions to align our visions, which helped us stay on track. The final product was published online and received positive feedback for its engaging combination of story and art. Through this, I learned the importance of clear communication in collaboration.
How do you prioritize your time when working on multiple story projects?
How to Answer
- 1
List all active projects and deadlines.
- 2
Assess the complexity and length of each story.
- 3
Allocate dedicated writing time blocks for each project.
- 4
Set short-term goals for progress on each story.
- 5
Stay flexible and adjust priorities as needed based on inspiration or deadlines.
Example Answers
I start by listing all my current projects along with their deadlines. Then, I evaluate which stories are more complex or longer, allowing me to manage my time around that. I block out specific times for each project during my week to ensure consistent progress.
What experiences have most influenced your writing style or choice of themes?
How to Answer
- 1
Reflect on your personal experiences that shaped you as a writer
- 2
Consider significant books or authors that have inspired your style
- 3
Think about life events or challenges that impact your themes
- 4
Identify any unique cultural influences or settings you've drawn from
- 5
Be specific about how these experiences changed your writing approach
Example Answers
My experiences living in a small coastal town have deeply influenced my writing style, echoing themes of isolation and connection in my stories. I often draw from the local landscape and the people I grew up with to create vivid settings and relatable characters.
Describe a situation wherein you had to adapt your writing to feedback from an editor or peer.
How to Answer
- 1
Choose a specific example that illustrates your adaptability.
- 2
Explain the feedback you received in clear terms.
- 3
Describe how you modified your writing based on the feedback.
- 4
Highlight the positive outcome or improvement from the changes.
- 5
Keep your response concise while covering the key points.
Example Answers
In my last short story, an editor pointed out that the pacing felt rushed in the middle. I took her feedback seriously and revised the section to include more internal dialogue and character development. As a result, the story flowed better, and readers found it more engaging.
Discuss a story you wrote that you felt wasn't your best work. What did you learn from that experience?
How to Answer
- 1
Choose a specific story that you consider weak or unsatisfactory
- 2
Briefly explain what aspects made it not your best work
- 3
Focus on the lessons learned during the writing process
- 4
Highlight how this experience improved your skills or approach
- 5
Conclude with how you applied these lessons to future writing
Example Answers
One story I wrote that I consider weak was about a traveling musician. I struggled with character development, which made it feel flat. From this, I learned the importance of deeply understanding my characters' motivations. I revisited my character sketches and now put more effort into building rich backstories. This helped improve my subsequent stories significantly.
Who are some of the short story writers that have influenced you, and how has their work impacted your writing?
How to Answer
- 1
Identify 2-3 specific short story writers who have influenced you.
- 2
Explain a particular story or aspect of their work that speaks to you.
- 3
Discuss how their style, themes, or techniques have shaped your writing process or voice.
- 4
Be personal and authentic about your connection to their work.
- 5
Keep it concise and focused on your own writing journey.
Example Answers
One writer who has significantly influenced me is Flannery O'Connor. Her ability to create complex characters in Southern settings has inspired me to delve deeper into my own characters' psychological landscapes. In stories like "A Good Man is Hard to Find," her use of irony and moral complexity pushes me to explore deeper themes in my own writing.
Technical Interview Questions
Can you explain the importance of voice and tone in short story writing?
How to Answer
- 1
Discuss how voice reflects the character's perspective and personality.
- 2
Explain how tone sets the mood and influences reader emotions.
- 3
Use specific examples from your stories to illustrate your points.
- 4
Highlight the relationship between voice, tone, and the story's genre.
- 5
Mention how consistent voice and tone enhance the narrative flow.
Example Answers
Voice is crucial in short story writing as it gives readers insight into the character's mindset. For example, in my story about a young girl on a journey, her playful voice makes the melancholy endings more impactful.
What are the key elements of a compelling short story?
How to Answer
- 1
Identify a strong premise that captures interest
- 2
Develop relatable characters with clear motivations
- 3
Create a conflict that drives the narrative
- 4
Craft a satisfying resolution or twist
- 5
Use concise and impactful language for storytelling
Example Answers
A compelling short story has a strong premise, relatable characters, and an engaging conflict that leads to a satisfying resolution. It should capture the reader's interest from the start and leave a lasting impression.
Don't Just Read Short Story Writer Questions - Practice Answering Them!
Reading helps, but actual practice is what gets you hired. Our AI feedback system helps you improve your Short Story Writer interview answers in real-time.
Personalized feedback
Unlimited practice
Used by hundreds of successful candidates
How do you go about submitting a short story for publication? What guidelines do you follow?
How to Answer
- 1
Research suitable magazines or journals for your genre
- 2
Read submission guidelines carefully and follow them precisely
- 3
Prepare a professional cover letter and include relevant details
- 4
Format your manuscript according to industry standards
- 5
Submit through the preferred method, whether email or online portal
Example Answers
I start by researching magazines that publish stories similar to mine. Then, I ensure I carefully follow their submission guidelines, including formatting and word count. I also prepare a brief cover letter summarizing my story and my writing background, and finally, I submit via their online portal.
Have you written in different genres? How does your approach change between them?
How to Answer
- 1
Identify the genres you have experience in.
- 2
Explain unique elements of each genre that influence your writing.
- 3
Share specific techniques or methods you use for each genre.
- 4
Discuss how your audience changes with different genres.
- 5
Mention how your writing goals differ across genres.
Example Answers
I have written short stories in fantasy and horror. In fantasy, I focus on world-building and character development, while in horror, I emphasize atmosphere and tension. I use different pacing techniques to engage readers according to genre expectations.
What role does research play in your short story writing process?
How to Answer
- 1
Identify specific aspects of your story that require research.
- 2
Discuss how research enhances authenticity in your writing.
- 3
Mention how research can inspire new ideas or plot twists.
- 4
Share examples of topics you researched for past stories.
- 5
Explain how you balance creativity with factual accuracy.
Example Answers
Research is crucial for grounding my stories in reality. For example, for my story set in the 1920s, I researched the social dynamics and fashion of that era to create authentic characters.
Can you give examples of narrative techniques you frequently use in your short stories?
How to Answer
- 1
Identify a few key techniques you use in your writing.
- 2
Explain how each technique enhances your story.
- 3
Provide specific examples from your own stories.
- 4
Mention why these techniques resonate with readers.
- 5
Keep your answers concise and focused on your personal experience.
Example Answers
I often use unreliable narrators to create tension and provoke thought. In my story 'Such Forgotten Days', the protagonist's distorted view invites readers to question the truth.
How do you decide what themes to explore in your short stories?
How to Answer
- 1
Reflect on personal experiences and emotions that resonate with you.
- 2
Research current events or social issues that inspire you.
- 3
Consider universal human dilemmas that can engage a broad audience.
- 4
Experiment with different genres to see which themes fit best.
- 5
Listen to feedback from peers and readers about themes they connect with.
Example Answers
I often draw from my own experiences, exploring themes of loss and resilience because they deeply resonate with me. These themes allow me to connect emotionally with readers.
What specific formatting do you consider when preparing a short story for submission?
How to Answer
- 1
Use standard manuscript format: double-spaced, 12-point Times New Roman.
- 2
Include a header with your last name, the title, and page number on each page.
- 3
Have a title page with the story title, your name, and contact information.
- 4
Use one-inch margins on all sides.
- 5
Number pages consecutively and ensure the first page starts with the story.
Example Answers
When preparing a short story for submission, I ensure it follows the standard manuscript format by double-spacing the text and using 12-point Times New Roman font. I also include a header on each page with my last name, the story title, and the page number to keep everything organized.
What techniques do you employ to write realistic dialogue in your stories?
How to Answer
- 1
Listen to real conversations to understand flow and tone
- 2
Use character voice distinctively to reflect their personality
- 3
Incorporate subtext to add depth to conversations
- 4
Avoid exposition-heavy dialogue; let actions show rather than tell
- 5
Read dialogue aloud to ensure it sounds natural
Example Answers
I often listen to conversations in cafes, noting how people interrupt or use slang. This helps me capture a natural flow in my writing.
What techniques do you use while editing your short stories?
How to Answer
- 1
Read the story aloud to catch awkward phrasing.
- 2
Check for consistency in character voice and plot.
- 3
Remove unnecessary adverbs and adjectives to tighten prose.
- 4
Focus on showing rather than telling where possible.
- 5
Get feedback from trusted peers or critique groups.
Example Answers
I often read my stories aloud after writing to catch any awkward sentences and ensure the flow is natural.
Don't Just Read Short Story Writer Questions - Practice Answering Them!
Reading helps, but actual practice is what gets you hired. Our AI feedback system helps you improve your Short Story Writer interview answers in real-time.
Personalized feedback
Unlimited practice
Used by hundreds of successful candidates
Situational Interview Questions
If you find that the characters in your story feel flat, how would you approach revising them?
How to Answer
- 1
Analyze their backstories and motivations to add depth.
- 2
Ensure each character has distinct traits and voices.
- 3
Introduce conflicts or challenges specific to each character.
- 4
Use dynamic character arcs that show growth or change.
- 5
Get feedback from peers or critique groups to gain new perspectives.
Example Answers
I would dive into each character's backstory, looking for unique experiences that shape their current actions. Then, I'd work to give them distinct voices that reflect their personalities.
Imagine you receive feedback that your story didn't resonate with readers. What steps would you take to revise it?
How to Answer
- 1
Analyze specific feedback to identify common themes or issues
- 2
Engage beta readers for more detailed insights on the story's impact
- 3
Revise the plot for clarity and emotional connection with characters
- 4
Consider the pacing and structure, ensuring it maintains reader interest
- 5
Reread the story aloud to catch tonal issues or awkward phrasing
Example Answers
First, I would analyze the feedback to pinpoint any recurring critiques. Then, I would gather a few beta readers' opinions to see where they felt disengaged. Based on that, I might revise the character arcs to deepen emotional connections and tighten the plot to improve pacing.
Don't Just Read Short Story Writer Questions - Practice Answering Them!
Reading helps, but actual practice is what gets you hired. Our AI feedback system helps you improve your Short Story Writer interview answers in real-time.
Personalized feedback
Unlimited practice
Used by hundreds of successful candidates
If you are approaching a deadline and your story isn't finished, how would you handle the situation?
How to Answer
- 1
Assess how much time you have left before the deadline and prioritize tasks.
- 2
Determine the most critical parts of the story that need completion or refinement.
- 3
Consider if simplifying the story or cutting non-essential elements could help meet the deadline.
- 4
Communicate with your editor or team if necessary, explaining your situation and seeking feedback.
- 5
Keep a cool head and avoid panic, focus on achieving a solid draft rather than perfection.
Example Answers
I would first evaluate how much time I have left and identify the key scenes that need to be completed. If necessary, I would simplify parts of the plot to ensure I can submit a complete story by the deadline.
Suppose you have a story that you feel is too complex thematically. How would you simplify its message?
How to Answer
- 1
Identify the core theme you want to convey.
- 2
Break down complex ideas into simpler concepts.
- 3
Use a relatable character or scenario to illustrate the main point.
- 4
Eliminate subplots that distract from the primary message.
- 5
Use clear, straightforward language throughout the story.
Example Answers
I would first determine the main theme I want the reader to take away. Then, I’d focus on one character’s journey that exemplifies that theme, cutting out any excess complexity.
If you encounter a major plot hole during the middle of a short story, what steps would you take to resolve it?
How to Answer
- 1
Identify the plot hole and analyze its impact on the story.
- 2
Consider possible solutions that align with the story's theme and characters.
- 3
Revise the plot to either adjust previous events or add new content that resolves the issue.
- 4
Ensure the resolution maintains continuity and is believable within the story's context.
- 5
Seek feedback from others to see if the resolution effectively addresses the plot hole.
Example Answers
First, I would clearly identify the plot hole and examine how it disrupts the narrative flow. Then, I'd brainstorm solutions, possibly altering earlier events or creating a new subplot that ties everything together. After revising, I'd read it again to ensure everything feels cohesive and plausible.
If a story you believed in is rejected by several publishers, what would you do next?
How to Answer
- 1
Review the feedback if provided to identify areas of improvement
- 2
Consider revising the story based on constructive criticism
- 3
Research other publishers who might be a better fit for the story
- 4
Submit the story to literary magazines or contests as alternative avenues
- 5
Reflect on whether to set the story aside for a while or pursue a different project
Example Answers
I would take any feedback I received and see if there are common threads in the rejections, then I would work on refining the story. After that, I would research and submit to smaller publishers or magazines that align with my work.
If given the chance to write for a specific audience, how would you tailor your writing to engage them?
How to Answer
- 1
Research the audience to understand their interests and preferences.
- 2
Use language and themes that resonate with the audience's experiences.
- 3
Incorporate elements that are culturally relevant to the audience.
- 4
Adjust the narrative style to match the audience's reading habits.
- 5
Seek feedback from the audience to refine and improve your writing.
Example Answers
To engage a young adult audience, I would research popular trends in their culture and incorporate relatable themes like identity and adventure. I would use contemporary language and fast-paced narrative styles to keep them hooked.
How would you seek inspiration to start a new story if you were feeling uninspired?
How to Answer
- 1
Keep a journal of prompts, phrases, or conversations that intrigue you.
- 2
Take a walk in nature or around your neighborhood to observe and reflect.
- 3
Read short stories or poetry to stimulate your imagination.
- 4
Engage in creative exercises like writing from a random first line.
- 5
Connect with other writers or artists to share ideas and experiences.
Example Answers
When I'm feeling uninspired, I often take a walk in my neighborhood. I pay attention to people and places, and I might overhear an interesting conversation that sparks an idea.
Imagine you want your readers to feel a specific emotion by the end of your story. How would you structure the narrative to achieve that?
How to Answer
- 1
Identify the emotion you want to evoke clearly.
- 2
Build your characters with relatable traits and struggles.
- 3
Create a conflict that resonates with the desired emotion.
- 4
Use imagery and sensory details to enhance emotional impact.
- 5
Craft a resolution that leaves readers reflecting on that emotion.
Example Answers
To evoke sadness, I would focus on a character who faces a heartbreaking loss. I would show their gradual decline and isolation through vivid descriptions of their environment. The resolution would involve them finding a small measure of hope, leaving readers with a poignant feeling of melancholy.
If a reader mentions that your story feels rushed, how would you assess and address the pacing?
How to Answer
- 1
Request specific feedback from the reader on which parts felt rushed.
- 2
Evaluate scene length and the amount of detail provided.
- 3
Identify key emotional moments and ensure they are given adequate space.
- 4
Consider the story arc and ensure it has a balanced progression.
- 5
Read the story aloud to catch any unnatural pacing or abrupt transitions.
Example Answers
I would ask the reader which specific parts felt rushed and gather details. This feedback helps me pinpoint areas needing more development, like expanding emotional moments or providing additional scene-setting.
Don't Just Read Short Story Writer Questions - Practice Answering Them!
Reading helps, but actual practice is what gets you hired. Our AI feedback system helps you improve your Short Story Writer interview answers in real-time.
Personalized feedback
Unlimited practice
Used by hundreds of successful candidates
Short Story Writer Position Details
Recommended Job Boards
CareerBuilder
www.careerbuilder.com/jobs/short-story-writerZipRecruiter
www.ziprecruiter.com/Jobs/Short-Story-WriterThese job boards are ranked by relevance for this position.
Related Positions
- Article Writer
- Freelance Writer
- Screenwriter
- Verse Writer
- Novelist
- Content Writer
- Copywriter
- Advertisement Writer
- Television Writer
- Blurb Writer
Similar positions you might be interested in.
Ace Your Next Interview!
Practice with AI feedback & get hired faster
Personalized feedback
Used by hundreds of successful candidates
Ace Your Next Interview!
Practice with AI feedback & get hired faster
Personalized feedback
Used by hundreds of successful candidates