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Story writing is an essential component of English writing skills in the CBSE curriculum for Classes 9 to 12. Whether it's for creative expression or to test language proficiency, story writing tasks help students enhance imagination, vocabulary, and sentence structuring.
In CBSE board exams and internal assessments, students are often asked to write a short story based on a beginning line, outline hints, or visual input. Understanding the correct format, structure, and techniques can help students write compelling, well-structured stories that leave an impact.
Story writing is a form of creative expression where the writer narrates a fictional or real incident in a structured and imaginative way. In the CBSE English curriculum, students are expected to craft short, engaging stories based on a given theme, opening line, or set of hints.
A good story includes well-defined characters, a central theme, conflict or problem, and a logical conclusion. It allows students to showcase not only their creativity but also their command of language, grammar, and narrative flow.
📌 In CBSE exams, story writing usually carries 5 to 10 marks depending on the class and paper format. Always stick to the word limit and structure mentioned in the question.
In CBSE exams, a well-structured story not only helps you convey your thoughts clearly but also makes a strong impression on the examiner. Following the correct structure ensures your story flows smoothly from beginning to end.
A story should be divided into three key parts — beginning, middle, and end. Each part plays a crucial role in maintaining reader interest and conveying the theme effectively.
✍️ CBSE Tip: Do not leave the story open-ended unless the question specifically asks for it. A complete resolution is expected in exam writing.
Below are carefully crafted examples that follow CBSE guidelines, structure, and word limits. These are perfect for Class 9–12 students to understand how to approach different types of story writing prompts.
Prompt: "It was a stormy night, and I was all alone at home..."
Title: The Mysterious Knock
It was a stormy night, and I was all alone at home. My parents had gone to attend a wedding nearby. Thunder rumbled loudly, and suddenly, there was a knock on the door. My heart raced. I peeped through the window — a man in black stood there, drenched. He claimed his car broke down and needed help. I hesitated but remembered my father's advice — always help with caution. I called a neighbor instead, and we both helped the man. It turned out he was a writer on his way to a seminar. The night taught me to be brave and smart.
Moral: Courage with caution is always wise.
Hints: Lost in forest – night falls – strange sounds – scared – remembers grandmother’s advice – finds way out.
Title: The Forest Lesson
We went hiking in the hills, but I strayed from the path. Suddenly, I was lost in the forest. As night fell, strange sounds surrounded me — hooting owls, cracking branches. I froze in fear. But then I remembered my grandmother’s advice: “When lost, stay calm and follow water streams downhill.” I found a small stream and followed it, finally reaching a nearby village. It was the scariest yet most enlightening experience of my life.
Moral: Stay calm in tough situations — your mind is your best tool.
Theme: Honesty is the best policy
Title: The Forgotten Wallet
On my way to school, I noticed a wallet on the road. It had a lot of cash and an ID card. Temptation crept in, but I remembered my school’s motto — Integrity Above All. I went to the address mentioned on the card and returned it. The man was overjoyed. To my surprise, he turned out to be the local education officer. A month later, he sponsored books for my entire class.
Moral: Honesty always finds its reward.
Prompt: Write a short story in 150–200 words beginning with: "I never imagined a simple trip to the bookstore would change my life..."
Title: The Book That Spoke
I never imagined a simple trip to the bookstore would change my life. Browsing through a dusty corner, I found an old book titled "Uncovering You." As I flipped through its pages, a note fell out: "To whoever finds this, never stop chasing your dream." The message struck me. I had always loved art but was too scared to pursue it. That night, I painted again after years. I submitted my artwork to a school competition — and won! That book wasn’t magical, but the message surely was.
Moral: Inspiration comes when you least expect it.
Prompt: Write a story using the dialogue – “Are you sure this will work?”
Title: The Final Experiment
“Are you sure this will work?” asked Aryan nervously as he adjusted the wires. Their science project was due in an hour, and the model had failed twice. “It has to,” I replied, pressing the switch. The motor buzzed, and the water wheel started spinning! We both jumped in excitement. Our months of effort had paid off. That day, we didn’t just win first prize — we learned that persistence beats panic.
Moral: Keep trying until you succeed.
Title: Rise After the Storm
The village lay submerged. Crops were gone. Homes washed away. But hope floated. Young Meena gathered other children and helped elders move to dry areas. Volunteers came. Food was scarce, but unity was plenty. Within weeks, the village started rebuilding. Meena’s efforts were featured in a local newspaper.
Moral: In adversity, leadership shines.
Theme: “Hard work leads to success”
Title: The Extra Mile
Ravi was never a topper, but he was determined. Every day after school, he revised his lessons twice. His friends mocked him. But Ravi ignored them. Months passed. In the final exams, he not only passed with flying colors but topped science. The principal praised his efforts in front of the school.
Moral: Success doesn’t come easy — it’s earned through hard work.
Prompt: Begin with: “I had never believed in miracles until...”
Title: The Stranger’s Gift
I had never believed in miracles until that day. Our family had no money for my college admission. While sitting in a park, I cried silently. A stranger approached, heard my story, and left without a word. Later, a courier arrived at home with my admission fees paid and a letter — “Pass it on.” That was my miracle.
Moral: Kindness from strangers can restore faith in humanity.
Prompt: A story with an unexpected ending
Title: The Winning Lottery
Rahul found a lottery ticket on the street. The next day, the news flashed — the ticket had won ₹1 crore. Excited, he ran to the police to return it, thinking they would find the owner. Surprisingly, it was unclaimed for months, and by law, he got the money. His honesty made him a millionaire.
Moral: Sometimes, good deeds bring unexpected rewards.
Theme: “A memorable day at school”
Title: The Unforgettable Farewell
It was our farewell day. Tears, laughter, hugs — it all felt like a movie. Our teachers danced with us, gave us advice, and shared stories. I realized school wasn't just about books; it was a family. That day, I knew memories outlive grades.
Moral: School life is a treasure you carry forever.
Story writing in CBSE exams tests your creativity, vocabulary, and ability to structure a narrative within a word limit. To write an effective story that scores well, it’s essential to follow a few smart techniques.
These tips will help you avoid common mistakes, enhance your expression, and organize your ideas clearly — just what CBSE examiners look for.
📘 CBSE Tip: Avoid memorized stories. Use your own ideas based on the prompt. Originality scores more!
These CBSE-style practice questions cover all common formats — opening lines, hints, moral-based themes, and visual inputs. Students from Classes 9 to 12 can use these to practice writing stories within the given word limits.
(Students can be shown pictures in actual exams. Below are described image-based prompts.)
✍️ Suggestion: Set a timer for 25 minutes per story and practice writing complete, structured stories. Review them with teachers or peers for feedback.
Story writing is not just a language exercise — it’s a way for students to express ideas, values, and creativity. In CBSE classes, mastering story writing helps improve descriptive writing skills, narrative flow, and imaginative thinking. With the right format, structure, and consistent practice, students can confidently tackle story writing questions in exams and even enjoy the process of storytelling.
Whether you're in Class 9 writing a 150-word story or in Class 12 shaping a longer narrative, always remember: a great story connects with the reader, follows a clear structure, and leaves a lasting message.
