Imagine a young writer, working in relative obscurity. Then, they decide to enter a local short story contest. A few months later, they are announced the winner. The agents and publishers come calling. A book deal follows. Dream scenario sure, but one that’s more common than you think. Writing contests can launch careers, especially for creative writing.
Creative writing contests post submissions for judging. From local competitions to international contests, these competitions can take on different forms. Awards may include cash, publication, or recognition.
There are many advantages taking part in these contests. Exposure is one. Feedback, another. It can also serve as a shot in the arm for your motivation.
This article navigates aspiring writers through creative writing contests. Discover how to locate, choose, and capture those. Ready? Let’s begin.
Entering Creative Writing Contests — Why?
Submitting your work to writing contests can be intimidating. If you are reading it then this is actually a golden chanceI have disciplined my self throughout the professional life. And lots of great reasons to get involved. Lets talk about some.
Gain Recognition and Exposure
It’s a big deal to win a writing contest. It can elevate your profile in the literary community. It’s sort of like those lights that shine on you and your work.
Several contests include publication as part of the prize. Consider your story or poem being in a respected journal! Agents and publishers may take notice, and you may even get your big break.
Receive Valuable Feedback
Now, judges in writing contests are usually writers and editors themselves. Their feedback is gold. Leverage properly to know your strengths and weaknesses.
This feedback can allow you to refine your craft. Will show you what works and what doesn’t. Think of it as a free writing coach!
Elevate Motivation and Discipline
Writing can be tough. That can make it difficult to do it consistently. Contests can help. Deadlines make it necessary for you to complete your work.
Your competitive nature can ignite, too. You’ll challenge yourself more than typical. This can produce your best work to date.”
How to Spot the Right Creative Writing Contests
It often takes a bit of work to find the right contest. You need a style and goals that suits you. How to identify contests that are just right.
Web-Based Databases and Directory Search
There are numerous websites listing writing contests. Some good places to start:
Poets & Writers: They offer a huge database of contests.
NewPages: A listing of literary magazines and contests.
The Writer Magazine: These magazines include contest listings at times.
Use search filters on these websites. Sort by genre, prize and fee. Discover contests that align with your requirements.
Writing Groups and Associations
Many writing organizations have contests. They are gunning for new blood. The app allows you to message groups in which you are either a member or the admin.
For more information look at groups like Poets & Writers, PEN America and the National Writers Series. These orgs boost writers. They may have just the contest for you.
Literary Magazines & Journals
Most literary magazines also have contests. That’s how they discover new voices. Winning may mean getting published in the magazine.
A few of the magazines with a good reputation for running contests: The Paris Review, Granta, and Ploughshares. See what other, popular literary journals publish. They may host contests.
The skill of being submittered
Contest entries consist of more than written submissions. Its not about showing your work in the best possible light. Thanks for the details might help us with better chances.
Understanding the Guidelines
Pay close attention to the contest rules. It is the only thing that matters. If you don’t follow the rules, your entry can be thrown out.
Watch for word count, formatting and eligibility. Is your genre registered to enter the contest? Do you qualify the admission criteria? Make a checklist.
Polishing Your Work
Your writing must shine. You are asked to perform data validation for less than true grammar, spelling, and punctuation. These errors can tank your prospects.
Use editing tools such as Grammarly or ProWritingAid. Seek advice from trusted friends or writing groups. If you were involved in writing the text or content, sometimes getting fresh eyes can help you catch things you missed.
How to Write a Killer Cover Letter
A cover letter is your introduction to you, and your work. It’s your opportunity to meet him for the first time. Keep it short and sweet.
Give a bit of your writing history. Why does your story match the contest? Demonstrate that you love to write.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
There are many mistakes writers commonly make the meaning of which are easy to avoid. The silliest mistakes can get you rejected. Learn what to avoid.
Ignoring the Theme or Prompt
Some contests have a theme or prompt, and some do not. Your story has to be about the theme. If not, the judges will not pick it.
Read the prompt carefully. Come up with ideas to solve it. A story cannot be interesting if it misses the point even if it’s well written.
Submitting Unedited Work
Typos and grammatical errors—nothing screams unprofessional more. It shows you did not treat the contest seriously. Edit, edit, edit!
It helps to proofread a number of times. Use editing software. Do have someone else read it over. Clean copy is key.
Missing Deadlines
Missing the deadline is a surefire way to have your application rejected. The quality of your story does not matter. Late is late.
Set reminders for yourself. Submit your work early. Do not leave it to the very last minute Allow yourself time to address any technical concerns.
Conclusion
Cooking creatives can do much more than just fill your wallet. They can unlock doors. The recognition and exposure can be transformative. The feedback helps you grow. Deadlines help increase motivation.
The hack is to look for the right contests to enter. Master the art of submission. Avoid simple mistakes.
So, what are you waiting for? Submit your work. Now it is time for your writing journey.
