Writing Contests: Getting Started
Writing contests offer a fantastic opportunity for aspiring writers to showcase their talents, gain recognition, and potentially win exciting prizes.
This article, updated as of July 2024, is your comprehensive guide to finding these contests. We’ll look into various aspects of writing contests, from penning your way into them to discovering facts you never knew about these competitions.
So, grab your pen and paper, and let’s ink our way into the beauty of writing contests!
If you are a writer, this article on art contests is for you—endeavor to read it.
Writing Contests Key Facts
- The first recorded writing contest dates back to ancient Greece, where poets competed for a crown of olive leaves.
- One surprising fact is that many renowned authors, including Stephen King and Sylvia Plath, kickstarted their careers by winning writing contests.
- A survey conducted by the National Endowment for the Arts revealed that 67% of published authors have participated in at least one writing contest during their careers.
- J.K. Rowling, the renowned author of the Harry Potter series, began her journey by submitting her work to writing contests.
The Top 8 Writing Contests Lists of 2024
Several writing competitions are available for writers of different genres in 2024. Some of the best of these contests can be found in these lists:
1. Instagram Writing Contests
You can find the best and most up-to-date writing contests in this Instagram writing contest list. This list is frequently updated to provide the newest contests in July 2024.
2. Writing Contests on Twitter
This Twitter writing contest list encompasses all writing genres, from poetry to drama to prose; you will find something for you in this list. It is frequently updated to provide the latest contests of the month.
3. r/writingcontests
This Reddit writing community provides the best writing contests worldwide. Their list is frequently updated with contests that cut across all writing genres with massive prizes.
4. Facebook Writing contests
In this Facebook writing contest list, you will find various contests with huge prizes in July 2024. This list is constantly updated with new writing contests, so find the most recent ones you can enter.
To find other writing contests, you can check out these popular writing prizes:
- Reedsy’s Weekly Writing Contests
- The Writer’s Digest Annual Writing Competition
- Drue Heinz Literature Prize
- Young Lions Fiction Award
Bonus Tip: Writers are readers, they say, so check out the Goodreads Giveaway article to win free books in 2024, even as you enter these writing contests.
Discovering Free Writing Contests
While many writing contests require entry fees, there are plenty of free opportunities for writers to showcase their talents and win prizes. In 2023, over 50% of writing contests offered free entry, making them accessible to writers of all backgrounds.
Free writing contests can be found through various online resources, such as writing communities, literary magazines, and author websites. Websites like Reedsy, Poets & Writers, and Submittable maintain comprehensive lists of free writing contests, making it easy for writers to find opportunities that suit their interests and skills.
When searching for free writing contests, it’s essential to research the organization behind the contest to ensure its legitimacy. Look for contests organized by reputable publications, writing organizations, or educational institutions. Be wary of contests that seem too good to be true or require excessive personal information.
Writing Contests Specifically for Teens
Many writing contests cater specifically to teenage writers, allowing young voices to be heard and recognized. These contests often have age restrictions, typically open to writers between 13 and 19.
| Contest Name | Organization | Genre | Prize |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards | Alliance for Young Artists & Writers | Multiple | $10,000 scholarship |
| The YoungArts National Arts Competition | National YoungArts Foundation | Multiple | Up to $10,000 |
| The Ocean Awareness Contest | Bow Seat Ocean Awareness Programs | Poetry, Prose, Film | $1,500 |
| The Foyle Young Poets of the Year Award | The Poetry Society | Poetry | Publication & Mentorship |
Teen writing contests offer prizes and recognition and provide valuable feedback and mentorship opportunities. Many contests pair young writers with established authors or industry professionals who provide guidance and support in developing their craft.
Receiving Writing Monetary Prizes
There are numerous writing contests for money. The American Foreign Service National High School Essay Contest is one of the most notable. This contest offers a unique opportunity for high school students to analyze international relations and U.S. foreign policy critically. The winner receives a $2,500 cash prize, an all-expense-paid trip to the nation’s capital, and a voyage courtesy of Semester at Sea.
Creativity with Creative Contests
Creative writing contests offer writers a platform to express their creativity and originality. The Reedsy Prompts Contest is one such contest that encourages creativity. Reedsy sends out five writing prompts every Friday, and participants have a week to respond. The winner receives $250 and may be included in a future issue of Reedsy’s literary magazine, Prompted.
The Anthology Travel Writing Competition is another creative contest that seeks engaging articles that capture the reader’s attention and convey a strong sense of the destination and the local culture. The top prize for this contest is €500.
Young Writers in Focus – Contests for the Youth
There are several writing contests tailored explicitly for young writers. The River of Words Poetry and Art Contest is an esteemed international youth competition that motivates students to articulate their environmental observations through art and poetry.
Another notable contest is the Teen Ink contest, which encourages young writers and artists aged 13 to 19 to submit their best work across various creative categories. This online contest is designed to publish exceptional works by teens in fiction, poetry, nonfiction, art, photography, and reviews.
| Contest | Age Range | Genres | Prizes |
|---|---|---|---|
| River of Words Poetry and Art Contest | 5-19 | Art, Poetry | Varies |
| Teen Ink Contest | 13-19 | Fiction, Poetry, Nonfiction, Art, Photography, Reviews | Publication |
The Art of Essay Writing Contests
In 2024 alone, Reedsy, a renowned publishing platform, hosted an astounding 124 essay contests with prize pools ranging from $100 to $50,000. The topics covered in these contests are diverse, catering to various interests and passions.
Participating in essay writing contests requires a unique blend of creativity, research, and adherence to guidelines. Successful contestants often spend 10 to 20 hours perfecting their submissions, ensuring that every word counts and their pieces stand out from the competition. The judging process is rigorous, with experienced writers, editors, and industry professionals evaluating each entry based on originality, clarity, and overall impact.
High School Writing Contests – A Stepping Stone
One notable example is the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, which has been celebrating the creative talents of students in grades 7-12 since 1923. This prestigious competition receives nearly 350,000 entries annually, with winners earning scholarships, publication opportunities, and even the chance to showcase their work at national exhibitions.
Other prominent contests for high school students include the Ocean Awareness Contest, the JFK Profile in Courage Essay Contest, and the National High School Essay Contest.
The Digital Age and Online Contests
The digital age has revolutionized how writers participate in contests. Online platforms make it easier to submit entries and connect with fellow contestants. These online contests provide a convenient way for writers to showcase their skills and offer the opportunity to receive feedback from industry professionals.
| Contest Platform | Number of Contests | Prize Range | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reedsy | 124 (2024) | $100 – $50,000 | Diverse genres, professional judges |
| The Write Life | 40 (2024) | Varies | Cash prizes, no entry fees |
| EssayPro | 20+ (2024) | $100 – $5,000 | Essay-specific, international |
The Fiction Genre Writing Contests
One of the aspects of fiction writing contests is their diversity. They can range from small, local contests to large, international ones, each offering different rewards and challenges. For instance, the Reedsy Prompts Contest offers a top prize of $250 and publication in Reedsy’s literary magazine. On the other hand, the SmokeLong Quarterly Award for Flash Fiction offers a grand prize of $2,500 and additional prizes.
Participating in these contests can be more than just an exercise in writing; it’s a commitment to putting your work under scrutiny to be judged and compared.
A Recap on Writing Contests in 2024
This article covered topics such as the top 8 Contests for all writers in 2024, contests for teens, high school, the fiction genre, and many more. The last content update in July 2024. It’s important to remember that participating in writing contests is about winning, personal growth, and craft improvement.
So, are you ready to take your writing to the next level? Follow our website, GiveawayListing.com, to stay informed about new giveaways, exclusive contests, and guides to maximize your chances of winning! Let’s embark on this exciting journey together!
Writing Contests FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about writing contests.
How Can I Find Legitimate Writing Contests?
To find legitimate contests, look for those sponsored by established literary magazines, publishing houses, universities, or literary organizations. Websites like Reedsy and The Write Life provide lists of vetted writing contests. Always ensure to read and follow the contest guidelines to avoid disqualification.
Are There Any Free Writing Contests?
Yes, numerous free contests offer cash prizes and publication opportunities. These contests can be found on various platforms online. However, carefully reading the contest rules and guidelines is essential, as some may have age and geographical restrictions.
How Can I Increase My Chances of Winning a Writing Contest?
To increase your chances of winning a writing contest, follow these tips:
- Understand and adhere to the contest guidelines.
- Seek feedback from beta readers before submitting your work.
- Proofread your work to eliminate errors.
- Submit work that is appropriate for the contest.
- Spread out your submissions evenly throughout the year.
Remember, each contest is different, so tailor your approach accordingly.
What Types of Writing Contests Are There?
There are various types of writing catering to different genres. These include contests for short stories, poetry, essays, novels, flash fiction, and specific themes. Some contests may also focus on a particular demographic or topic. Choosing a contest that aligns with your writing style and genre is crucial.
What are Some Popular International Writing Contests?
There are several popular international contests that writers from all over the world can participate in. These include the Lorian Hemingway Short Story Competition, Writers and Artists’ Yearbook Short Story Competition, Colorado State University’s Nelligan Prize for Short Fiction, and the Australian Book Review’s Elizabeth Jolley Short Story Prize.
What are Some Writing Contests for Unpublished Authors?
Some of these include the Fern Academy Prize, Flash Memoir Writer Advice, and the Daphne du Maurier Award For Excellence in Mystery/Suspense Unpublished Division. These contests accept entries in fiction, short stories, memoirs, mystery, suspense, and thrillers.
