Novel or Write Short Stories First?

by Angela
(Victoria, BC)

I have noticed that many novelists first created books of short stories. I am working on a novel. Do you think I should focus on the novel or write short stories first?

ANSWER

Whether you publish a novel or write short stories first depends on your interest and ability. They are different forms, so you may have more ability with one than the other, and many novelists never write short stories at all.

That said, it is a very good idea to publish short stories or articles in as many different magazines, journals, and newspapers as possible just before your novel is published, and after, as a way to raise interest in your writing in general.

You needn't limit yourself to print media, either. Online articles will also attract readers, and article sites are always looking for fresh articles. Unpublished writers do not always receive payment for these, but if you have a web site, and you should, they are a good way to attract traffic to the site and let people know about your novel.

I always notice a spike in traffic and sales after a new article or short story comes out.