Here's how to think about it:
Word Count:
* Flash Fiction: 100-1000 words (often less than a page)
* Short Story: 1000-7500 words (usually 2-10 pages)
* Novella: 7500-40000 words (10-50 pages)
A4 Page Count:
* 1 A4 page holds approximately 500 words (using a standard font like Times New Roman 12pt with standard margins).
It's all about the story:
* Don't force your story to fit a page count. A great short story might be only 2 pages, while a weaker story could be 10 pages and still feel lacking.
* Focus on telling your story effectively. If you need more pages to fully develop your characters, plot, and theme, don't be afraid to use them.
Consider your target audience:
* Literary magazines often have specific word count guidelines.
* Online platforms like Wattpad and Medium may have different expectations.
Ultimately, the best way to determine the right length for your short story is to trust your instincts and let the story dictate its own length.