Many writers dream of earning a living from their passion, but how much you make often depends on the path you choose. Self-published authors have the potential to earn 40% to 60% royalties on each book sold, giving them greater control over their profits. On the other hand, traditionally published authors typically earn 10% to 12% royalties but may benefit from the publisher’s resources for marketing and distribution.
No matter which route you take, there are plenty of ways to monetize your writing and turn your creativity into a rewarding source of income. Here’s how you can get started.
How to Start Selling Your Short Stories
Before you start selling your stories, make sure they’re the best they can be. High-quality work gets noticed and sells faster. Here’s how to prepare:
1. Write and Rewrite
Your first draft is just the beginning. Reread your story, fix the flow, and check for errors. Great stories have clear plots, interesting characters, and a compelling conflict or twist.
2. Find Your Audience
Think about who might enjoy your story. Are they sci-fi fans or lovers of romance? Knowing this will help you pick the best platforms to sell your work.
3. Format Properly
Write your story following proper formatting rules. A clean, professional layout helps make a great first impression with publishers or readers.
Now that your stories are polished, it’s time to explore where and how to sell them.
Where to Publish and Earn
Here are some of the best places to publish short stories and earn money, whether you want to work with publishers or go independent.
1. Literary Magazines and Journals
Magazines like Clarkesworld Magazine and The Threepenny Review pay writers well. For example, Clarkesworld offers 12 cents per word for sci-fi and fantasy stories. Many of these platforms post their submission guidelines online. Follow these rules closely to increase your chances of being accepted.
2. Writing Contests
Contests are a fun way to earn big rewards, with prizes often ranging from $500 to $5,000. Websites like Poets & Writers regularly share lists of competitions you can enter. Winning also adds credibility to your work, making it easier to sell more stories later.
3. Self-Publishing Platforms
Want to skip traditional publishers? Self-publishing through platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) lets you sell your stories directly as ebooks. Bundling your stories into a collection or series can attract more buyers. Amazon pays up to 70% in royalties, making it a solid option for steady income.
4. Your Own Website
Create a simple website to sell your stories directly to readers. Platforms like Wix or Squarespace make it easy to create a professional-looking site. Use tools like MemberSpace to lock certain pages so only paying readers can access your work. Selling through your own site gives you full control over pricing and earnings.
5. Flash Fiction Platforms
If you prefer writing very short stories, flash fiction platforms like Flash Fiction Online or East of the Web are perfect. They pay $50-$75 for stories under 1,000 words. Some platforms even accept previously published works, giving you an extra chance to earn.
How Much Can Short Stories Sell For?
Writers can earn money in different ways depending on where they sell their short stories. Magazines and journals usually pay $200 to $500 for each story, while writing contests can offer bigger prizes, ranging from $500 to $5,000 for winners. If you publish a collection of stories as an ebook, you might earn $3 to $10 for each one sold.
Flash fiction platforms, which are for very short stories, often pay $50 to $100. Selling directly on your own website gives you even more control. You can set up subscription plans, like $5 a month for basic access or $30 a month for exclusive content and extra perks. Each option is a great way to earn while sharing your stories.
Tips for Building Your Audience
Good writing isn’t enough. You also need to promote your stories to find readers. Here are some simple ways to spread the word:
1. Use Social Media
Platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook can help you connect with readers. Share teaser lines or excerpts from your stories to grab attention.
2. Start an Email List
Build an email list of fans who want updates on your new releases or special offers. Send them free samples to keep them excited.
3. Collaborate With Other Writers
Team up with other writers for anthologies or joint promotional events. This can expand your audience with less effort.
4. Offer Free Previews
Sharing a chapter or a flash-length story for free can draw people in. If they like it, they’re more likely to buy.
Moving Forward as a Writer of Short Stories
Can you make money writing short stories? Yes, but it takes effort. Start by selling one story at a time and learn as you go. You might begin with small payments, but over time, you’ll find more ways to profit from your creativity.
Don’t give up. Whether you publish on your own website, enter contests, or submit to magazines, each step brings you closer to earning more. Write stories people can’t put down, share them widely, and watch your audience (and income) grow.
Your stories deserve to be read, so start today and turn passion into profit!