Flashfic Writealong FAQ: 2026 Version
What is this thing?
It’s a writing “challenge” where you write a flash fic, ideally for MacGyver fandom. By “flash fic” I mean something <1000 words, but like most other “rules” of the writealong, it’s not set in stone. Make of it what you will!
Not sure how to cram a story into ~1000 word? I'll be posting some tips tomorrow.
Which MacGyver fandom?
This challenge is aimed at MacGyver 2016, but MacGyver 1985 stories are welcome.
Why are we doing this?
Back in 2022, I wanted to try my hand at writing some flash-sized fanfics (a big change from my 10k+ normal fic size). So I invited all the MacGyver writers to play along with me. This is our 4th Flashfic Writealong. It’s like peer pressure, except everybody wins because everybody gets new fics to read. Yay!
How will it work?
There will be 10 prompts over 3 weekends starting July 22, 2026. Most prompts will be posted 2 days before the target posting date. The idea is to write a tiny story quickly, without overcomplicating it. (Overcomplication, my beloved...!)
Check this post for the schedule.
Need examples? Try All Stories from the 2025 Challenge by Prompt
What if I miss the target date? Can I post it later?
Heck yeah!
Is this a whump challenge thing?
No, write whatever you want. Variety is the spice of life and one of my favorite things about this fandom. ❤️ I’ll write h/c but everybody is welcome to play along. Ship all your ships. Smut it up if you wanna. Just tag your stuff appropriately.
What about AI-generated or assisted fic?
This challenge has ONE hard and fast rule: absolutely NO AI generated or AI assisted fic. Write it yourself or don’t participate.
I wrote a thing! When do I post it?
Any time on or after the day the prompts were for. For example, if you wrote a story using the July 24 prompts, post it on July 24 (your local time) or whenever you have it ready after that.
Where should it be posted?
Tumblr or AO3 ideally. But do whatever you want with your fic! This is supposed to be fun. And maybe less stressful than other challenges? Or more, you decide.
Is there an AO3 collection?
The collection will open on July 23 and will be titled July 2026 MacGyver Flashfic Writealong. Please add your story! :)
What about Tumblr tags?
Event tag: #MacGyver Flashfic Writealong
Day tag: #july 24 (for the day the prompts were “for”, regardless of when you post ‘em)
What are the prompts?
The prompts will be set to post at 9am PT (UTC-7) 2 days before the day they’re for. There are also a few alternate prompts in case the day’s prompts aren’t inspiring you.
How do I participate?
Write a thing related to the prompts and post it. :) Tag this blog if you want it reblogged.
Who’s running this thing?
It’s meeee, @rosieblogstuff. 👋
