But dreams like these pay off only if you make them a reality. Reality in the short story means learning how to write - exactly like a doctor or a lawyer must learn the skills of his or her profession - before you can apply your art or talent.

In recent years, short stories have become by far the most popular form of fiction. Hundreds of magazines depend upon them, and paperback publishers have found that collected short stories can outsell any other kind of fiction. So it has become a rewarding form of writing in more ways than one: rewarding both financially and creatively.

It is rewarding creatively because, in the short story, the plot is all - important. That's why a central part of this course deals with plot idea-finding and plot construction. You will learn techniques for idea - finding that show you how to relate characters to situations and create your own plotfinder. You are shown how to develop plots, building suspense and maintaining interest. You are taught how to draw your characters, using elements of sympathy, empathy and reader identification.

The course teaches you how to write realistic dialogue - essential to maintaining believability in your characters. And your tutor will work with you to evolve your own personal writing style. The techniques you use for the opening and closing paragraphs, the tone of your narrative, the shape of your language, all these factors will mirror your individual style.

You have the ability, and your tutor will give you the skills and the self-confidence to write stories that are rich and vivid, the kind of professional work editors are always seeking.

This course can be taken by mail or email