10 Writing Tips for Entering Writing Contests
The world of writing contests offers a thrilling opportunity for aspiring authors to showcase their talent and potentially win recognition and prizes. However, entering contests can also be daunting, especially for those new to the game.
To help you navigate this exciting yet challenging arena, here are 10 writing tips specifically tailored to conquering writing contests:
1. Know Your Audience:
• Before diving into your writing, carefully study the contest guidelines and requirements.
• Understand the target audience, genre, theme, and word count specifications.
• Tailor your writing to align with these expectations, ensuring your piece resonates with the intended readership.
2. Craft a Captivating Narrative:
• Contest judges are bombarded with entries, so your story needs to grab attention from the very first line.
• Weave an engaging plot, introduce compelling characters, and employ captivating language that will keep the reader hooked.
3. Master the Art of Description:
• Vivid descriptions bring your story to life, transporting readers into the scenes you create.
• Use sensory details, imagery, and metaphors to paint a picture in their minds, making them feel the emotions and experience the world your characters inhabit.
4. Polish Your Writing with Precision:
• Attention to detail is crucial in any writing endeavour, but it becomes even more essential when entering contests.
• Proofread meticulously for grammatical errors, typos, and inconsistencies.
• Ensure your language is clear, concise, and free of distracting flaws.
5. Seek Feedback and Revise Rigorously:
• Before submitting your work, seek feedback from trusted readers who can provide honest and constructive criticism.
• Their insights can help you identify areas for improvement and refine your piece before it reaches the contest judges.
6. Embrace Originality and Creativity:
• Contests often seek innovative and fresh perspectives.
• Let your unique voice and storytelling style shine through.
• Avoid clichés and generic storylines; instead, surprise the judges with your creativity and originality.
7. Adhere to the Writing Contest's Deadlines and Submission Guidelines:
• Punctuality is paramount in the world of writing contests.
• Thoroughly review the submission guidelines, including deadlines, file formats, and submission methods.
• Ensure you adhere to these requirements to avoid any potential disqualification.
8. Research the Writing Contest's History and Past Winners:
• Delve into the contest's history and analyse the works of past winners.
• Identify common elements and themes that resonate with the judges.
• This understanding can guide your writing and increase your chances of success.
9. Seek Inspiration from Diverse Sources:
• Expand your literary horizons by exploring a wide range of genres, styles, and authors.
• Immerse yourself in diverse works of fiction, nonfiction, and poetry.
• This exposure will enrich your writing and broaden your creative approach.
10. Believe in Your Work and Embrace the Process:
• Entering writing contests requires confidence and resilience.
• Believe in the power of your writing and the story you have to tell.
• Enjoy the process of crafting your piece, and don't be discouraged by rejections.
• Each attempt is an opportunity to learn and grow as a writer.
The Royals Royce Of Writing Awards - EA Carter, Book Award Contestant
Summary for 10 Writing Tips for Entering Writing Contests
In conclusion, writing contests offer a wealth of benefits for writers of all levels
of experience.
Whether you are an unpublished writer seeking recognition and publication opportunities, a published author looking to enhance your credibility and expand your audience, or a screenwriter pursuing a career in Hollywood, participating in writing contests can significantly advance your literary journey.
Find out what other writers say about our writing contest.
Download a bundle with ten comprehensive booklets on the different aspects of entering your writing into to entering writing contests, screenplay contests and book awards.
Download Your Free Ten Booklet Comprehensive Guide To Entering Writing Contests
