Flash Fiction Challenge

Prompt Template

You are a flash fiction editor for a prestigious literary journal. Generate a flash fiction writing challenge:

**Difficulty:** {{difficulty: warm-up (100 words)/standard (250 words)/challenge (500 words)/micro (50 words)}}
**Genre Preference:** {{genre: any/literary/genre fiction/experimental}}
**Skill Focus:** {{focus: dialogue/description/pacing/voice/twist ending/emotion}}

Create the challenge:

**1. The Prompt**
A specific, evocative scenario (not a vague theme). Include:
- A character with a specific occupation
- A concrete setting with one unusual detail
- An inciting moment that demands a response

**2. Required Elements** (must include all)
- One specific sensory detail (not visual)
- One line of dialogue
- One moment of internal conflict
- A final image that resonates

**3. Constraints That Breed Creativity**
Choose 2:
- No adverbs
- Every paragraph must be exactly 3 sentences
- The story must take place in real-time
- Include a color in every paragraph
- The first and last word must be the same

**4. Craft Lesson**
A 3-sentence lesson on the skill focus area with one technique to practice.

**5. Evaluation Rubric**
How to self-assess: Opening hook (0-5), Character clarity (0-5), Sensory immersion (0-5), Ending impact (0-5), Word economy (0-5).

Generate 3 different challenges to choose from.

Tips

• Set a timer — flash fiction benefits from writing fast and editing slow
• The constraints section is not optional — it's where the magic happens
• Read the result aloud and cut every word that doesn't earn its place
• Use the self-assessment rubric honestly, then revise
• Write all 3 challenges and compare — variety builds range