Where to Find Writing Contests
As you start to feel well equipped for creative writing contests, you face the next task of finding contests you can submit to. In this regard, quantity often trumps quality, as your best opportunity is to submit to every contest under the sun. We've built up some recommendations that will help you narrow down your options and figure out where you can send your own writing.
- Poets and Writers
Poets and writers is a great resource for just about anything writing related. They have feedback on literary agents, literary magazines, and the various programs available to writers. The site is all about taking your writing to the next level and becoming a more serious writer. In addition to references on available literary magazines, it provides a large supply of regular contest information. The downside of some of Poets and Writers contests is that they come in two forms: ones that cost money, and ones that are for grants to enroll in MFA programs. Still, the site is a great resource and well worth checking out.
- Contest Blog
While Poets and Writers was more of a complete resource, this Contest Blog seems more directed towards a giant list of writing contests. Updated daily, it is easy to constantly see contests that are available through the site. Unfortunately, many of them have a reading fee, but still, knowledge is power, and this site more than equips you in that regard. Providing submission requirements, deadlines, and the fees for contests, this site will help you know which contests are right for you. My only criticism of this site is that it doesn't have any method to filter or search the contests for the types that work best for you.
Writer's Market
Moving into print format, there is something for people who don't want to bothered with the web. Writer's Market is the de facto book for everyone looking to get into the writing world. You probably don't need to buy it as you can always read it at the book store when you need the references, and your local library might even have a copy. Still, it doesn't seem too expensive so it could be worth the purchase. With detailed guides on publishers, literary magazines, writing contests, and more, the book is everything you need to know to enter the writing world.
Local Contests
Unfortunately, these contests are harder to find, but they can also be easier to win. Check your local newspapers, and college campuses and you might be able to find local organizations hosting their own writing contests. These often have significantly less competition so they're a good way to boost your ego and get yourself established with a local following. Still, the challenge is finding them so keep your eyes open and hopefully you can find something.
- Five Tips to Winning Writing Contests - 2011-02-13 10:16:24
We know how hard it can be to win a free writing contest, and how demoralizing it can be to constantly get rejected. With these tips, hopefully you can see your "no" turn to "yes."
- Pros and Cons of Writing Contests - 2011-02-22 08:57:14
While writing contests seem to be a surefire way to get your writing out there, they aren't without their flaws. Here we breakdown everything you need to know about whether writing contests are right for you.
- Adapt Old Pieces for Contests - 2011-03-17 09:09:11
Just because a writing contest has a silly requirement doesn't mean you can't use old pieces. You just need to adapt them.
Overall, a great way to do well with writing contests is to contact as many people as possible. The more eyes that see your writing, the better chance you have that they will accept it. Of course, it is also important to make sure your writing is of high quality, so you might want to read the other sections on the site before you go all out and send your writing to everyone and anyone. Still, good luck in your journey!