Meet Sarah, a teacher who has always wanted to be a writer. She wrote a moving essay about her experiences, submitted it to a contest — and it won. Now she’s a published author. Creative nonfiction is the art of storytelling in factual form. It mixes facts with personal experiences. This article serves as your guide to creative nonfiction writing contests. You’ll learn where to find them, how to choose them, and how to win them.
Entering Creative Nonfiction Contests: 10 Good Reasons
It’s not all about winning entering contests. It opens up possibilities that you can’t even imagine. You will still get something of huge value even if you do not win.
Exposure and Recognition
Several contests have agents as judges, which can expose your work. It helps you get published. For instance, this was how many writers began their careers. Recognition may result in broader readership and additional chances. What writer wouldn’t want that?
Validation and Motivation
Writing can be a lonely business, at least at the beginning. Contests offer validation. It tells us that you’re on the right path. Even constructive criticism helps. It makes you want to get better at your craft.
Cash Prizes and Awards
And really, who doesn’t love a little prize money? Most contests award cash prizes. They can also offer you residencies or workshops. These programs are out there to fund your writing career. They can also provide you with space to create.
How to Identify the Right Creative Nonfiction Contests
Key is finding contests that match your style. What do you most like to write about? What stories do you tell?
Online Databases and Resources
Websites such as Poets & Writers have contest listings. Another very good resource is duotrope. These websites allow you to look for contests. You can search by genre and by deadline. This is great starting point.
Contests with Genre and Theme Specific Requirements
Contests for Creative Nonfiction Target Memoir and personal essay contests are good options. You might also try travel writing contests. Choose the one which fits your writing style.
Reputation and Process of Judging
Do some research. Investigate the contest’s legitimacy before entering it. Know how they evaluate entries Beware of steep entrance; usually entry fees. Unclear rules are a bad sign.
How to Write a Successful Creative Nonfiction Piece
Creating literary nonfiction is just about sharing your truth. What do you do to ensure your story is unique? Here’s some advice to keep in mind.
Honesty and Authenticity
Write from your heart. Stay honest to your own experience. Readers connect with honesty. And this is what makes them actually feel what you’re saying.
A Strong Voice and Narrative Structure
Develop your unique voice. Structure your story well. Tell a story that pulls your readers in. Consider the beginning, middle and end of your story. Make sure they flow well.
Attention to Detail and Polished Prose
Edit your work carefully. Proofread it thoroughly. Look out for common errors. Well done spelling and grammar are really important!
How to Submit Your Work: A Step-by-Step Process
Submitting your work requires some planning. What do you need to know? Let’s break it down.
Guidelines and requirements for formatting
Abide by the contest’s formatting rules. Make sure to use appropriate font size and margin. Stick to the word count. Make sure these details check out before you submit.
Cover Letters and Author Bios
Write a short cover letter. Showcase your writing experience. It’ll be something like, read until here you’ll find the extended biography from the author. Make it interesting to read.
Deadlines: — and Submission Policies
Pay attention to deadlines. Familiarize yourself with the contest’s policies. Disappointment: Missing a Deadline Go through guidelines always carefully.
After the Submission: What Comes Next?
What comes next after you submit? It’s important to be patient. What else should you know?
Patience and Persistence
Be patient. Waiting takes time. Don’t be discouraged by rejections. Stick with it, it finds a way to pay off in the end.
Learning from Feedback
Learn from contest feedback to make adjustments Listen to what the judges give feedback on. Every bit of feedback helps.
Building Your Network
Connect with other writers. Attend contests and events. Networking opens doors. Who knows who you might meet?
Conclusion
There are major advantages to entering creative nonfiction writing contests. It gives visibility, legitimacy, and prizes. Ask the staff for the stores mentioned. Now go out and submit your work. Your story is waiting to be heard.
