Short stories can cover a wide range of topics and themes, and there is no single "most popular" plot line. However, here are five common plot lines that appear in many short stories:

  1. Coming of Age: This plot line focuses on the growth and development of a young protagonist as they navigate the challenges and struggles of adolescence and mature into adulthood.

  2. Love and Romance: Stories about love and romance often explore the complexities of relationships, the search for connection, and the ups and downs of falling in love.

  3. Mystery and Suspense: These stories often involve a crime or a puzzle that needs to be solved, and keep readers on the edge of their seats with twists and turns.

  4. Conflict and Resolution: Many short stories center around a conflict or problem that the protagonist must overcome, leading to a satisfying resolution.

  5. Life Lessons: These stories often have a moral or lesson to impart, using characters and situations to explore universal truths about human nature and the world around us.