Basically there are three types of takeoff and landing, STOL (short takeoff), CTOL (conventional takeoff) and VTOL (vertical takeoff).
STOL is performed on extremely short runways, there are cases of takeoff with only 18 meters of run.
Here is a video that left me impressed, it is remarkable that such a landing is not easy at all, it requires high skill and cold blood from the pilot.
Note that in some cases the tail rises with the plane still stationary, when in a conventional takeoff the plane would have to travel hundreds of meters for such a feat. The reason is clear. The plane is too light.
Here comes the question. How is this possible?
These planes have a very low STOL speed, consequently enabling a slower landing and takeoff speed, thus using much less runway space. It is essential to use hyperlift devices, the flap is fully lowered in order to increase the wing curve, thus acquiring more lift. The wing is also larger to increase lift.
    
The short landing is necessary because there are places where it is not possible to build large runways, such as in mountains, hilly relief regions, islands and forests.
A good example of this is Lukla Airport in Nepal.
