Write a 500-word humorous essay or short story

Get In On The Joke

Post 2-3 ideas for your story or essay.
Gather inspiration from the world around you. What did you find bizarre or funny this week? Which real-life characters might make good characters in your story or essay?
Offer feedback.
Comment on other students' projects. Which ideas do you most want to see turned into a longer piece? Why?

Put Pen to Paper

Upload your rough draft.
Based on the feedback you've received, write your first draft. Remember, a rough draft isn't supposed to be polished. Just get your ideas on the page.
Offer feedback.
Comment on other students' projects. What is your favorite part of their draft, and why?

Edit and Revise

Upload your revised draft.
Based on the feedback you've received, revise your draft and upload it for feedback. Remember to focus on the arc of your story, use clear language, and omit anything unnecessary.
Offer feedback.
Comment on other students' projects. What made their draft better, and why?

Get Published

Upload your final draft.
Based on the feedback you've received, revise your draft and upload it for feedback. Create a title. Keep your draft under 500 words.
Offer feedback.
Comment on other students' projects. What made their draft better, and why?
Optional: Submit your story or essay to publications.
Using the list of humor writing outlets, reach out one by one to publications that might be interested in your story. Make sure to research the publication in advance; would they be interested in your subject matter and your tone? And if your story is seasonal, send it out 1-2 months ahead of the event (i.e. Christmas, graduation, Valentine's Day, etc.).

Additional Resources

Elizabeth Allison

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