Entering Writing Competitions
Avoid Scams and Find Great Contests with These Helpful Listings
There are hundreds of writing contests to choose from, with varied topics,word count, genre, and credibility. These listings will help you find the perfect contest.
Why should a writer bother enter writing contests? First, it's good practice. Second, in many cases, the number of entries into a contest is smaller than the number of submissions a journal gets for regular publication, so your chances of being published can be greater.
Also, most writing competitions are judged blind, which means your name doesn't appear on what the judges read. Blind judging reduces the possibility that judges will be biased by a writer's previous success and fame.
Choosing the Right Writer's Contest
Choosing the right writing contest can be challenging. If possible, try to look at last year's winners to see if your writing fits the style and tone of the contest. Some contests charge entry fees, and other don't. For literary journal contests, the entry fee usually gets you a year's subscription to the journal, so even if you don't win you can check out the journal and be better prepared next time you submit to them.
Beware of Scams
There are some scams out there, so be sure to check out any contest carefully. A general rule is that the entry fee should be low, and the prize should be higher. Also, there should be no expectation that you will be required to purchase anything if you win. Some contests advertise publication in an anthology, but require you to buy multiple copies of the anthology when it is printed. Read the contest details carefully, and most importantly network with other writers to make sure the contest is reputable.
The Canadian Authors Association has put together a helpful guide on how to select legitimate writing contests and avoid scams. The site also lists Canadian writing contests and links to further listings.
Contest Listings
First Writer has a searchable contest database, where you can search by fields such as prize amount, entry fee, submission deadline or type of writing. The listings are comprehensive, and accessible to members who pay a small monthly fee.
Places for Writers is an incredible resource for writers. It has a separate listing for contests and includes information on deadlines, prizes and entry fees.
Writing World lists contests by the submission deadline, and includes both free contests and those that charge an entry fee. This site also has helpful articles for first-time submitters and general articles about writing.
The Writers' Circle of Durham Region has a great and frequently updated list of Canadian writing contests in all genres.
If a particular literary journal or magazine interests you, contact them directly to see if they run a contest. Many host an annual contest and these are usually well-respected within the literary community.
Libraries often have writing contests, advertised either on their website or on local notice boards. Check out universities, colleges and community centres too. Writer's unions or national or provincial writing bodies will often host a contest too.
Sending your writing to contests can help you write to deadline, take your writing seriously and focus your style. Plus, you just might win. So start writing!
