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Objectives of Creative Writing

Delve into the "Objectives of Creative Writing" and explore the multifaceted aims of this expressive art form. Uncover the diverse purposes, entertainment, education, and social commentary, that creative writing serves. Gain a deeper understanding of how creative writing transcends mere words, providing insight into the human experience.

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In this blog, we delve into the Objectives of Creative Writing and its purposes, shedding light on its significance in our lives. From the art of storytelling to the therapeutic release of emotions, Creative Writing is a dynamic and versatile discipline that has enchanted both writers and readers for generations. 

Table of C ontents  

1)  Objectives of Creative Writing 

    a)  Self-expression 

    b)  Entertainment 

    c)  Education 

    d)  Social commentary 

2)  Purpose of Creative Writing 

3)  Conclusion 

Objectives of Creative Writing  

Creative Writing serves as a versatile and dynamic form of expression, encompassing a range of objectives that go beyond mere storytelling. Here, we delve into the fundamental objectives that drive creative writers to craft their narratives and explore the depths of human creativity:  

Self-expression 

Creative Writing is, at its core, a powerful means of self-expression. It provides writers with a unique canvas upon which they can paint the colours of their innermost thoughts, emotions, and experiences. This objective of Creative Writing is deeply personal and cathartic, as it allows individuals to articulate their inner worlds in ways that spoken language often cannot. 

Through the act of writing, authors can explore the complexities of their own psyche, giving shape and substance to feelings that might otherwise remain elusive. Whether it's capturing the euphoria of love, the depths of sorrow, or the intricacies of human relationships, Creative Writing serves as a conduit for unfiltered self-expression. 

Moreover, Creative Writing grants the freedom to experiment with different writing styles, tones, and literary devices, enabling writers to find their unique voices. In the process, it cultivates self-awareness, self-discovery, and a deeper understanding of one's own experiences. For many, the act of putting pen to paper or fingers to keyboard is a therapeutic release, a way to make sense of the chaos within, and an avenue for personal growth and reflection. In essence, Creative Writing empowers individuals to share their inner narratives with the world, fostering connection and empathy among fellow readers who may find solace, resonance, or inspiration in the tales of others. 

Entertainment 

One of the primary and most recognisable objectives of Creative Writing is to entertain. Creative writers craft stories, poems, and essays that are designed to captivate readers, transporting them to different worlds, evoking emotions, and engaging their imaginations. 

At its heart, Creative Writing is the art of storytelling, and storytelling has been an integral part of human culture since time immemorial. Whether it's a thrilling mystery, a heartwarming romance, or a thought-provoking science fiction narrative, Creative Writing offers an escape from the ordinary into realms of fantasy, intrigue, and wonder. It weaves narratives with vivid imagery, compelling characters, and gripping plots, all working together to hold the reader's attention. 

Through Creative Writing, authors create emotional connections between the reader and the characters, fostering a sense of empathy and identification. As readers immerse themselves in a well-crafted story, they experience a wide range of emotions, from laughter to tears, joy to sorrow. It is this emotional journey that makes Creative Writing such a potent form of entertainment, offering readers a pleasurable escape from reality, a chance to explore new perspectives and a memorable experience that lingers long after the last page is turned.  

Education 

Creative Writing is not only a source of entertainment but also a powerful educational tool. It engages writers in a process that goes beyond storytelling; it encourages research, critical thinking, and the development of effective communication skills. 

Writers often embark on extensive research journeys to create authentic settings, characters, and plots. This quest for accuracy and depth enriches their knowledge in various fields, ranging from history and science to culture and psychology. As they delve into their chosen topics, writers gain valuable insights and expand their intellectual horizons. 

Furthermore, Creative Writing teaches readers important life lessons and imparts knowledge. It introduces them to diverse perspectives, cultures, and experiences, fostering empathy and understanding. Reading well-crafted works can be an enlightening experience, challenging preconceptions and encouraging critical thinking. It also enhances vocabulary, language skills, and the ability to express thoughts and emotions effectively. 

In educational settings, Creative Writing nurtures creativity, encourages self-expression, and helps students develop essential communication and analytical skills. This educational objective of Creative Writing underscores its value as a holistic tool for personal and intellectual growth, making it an integral part of both formal and informal learning processes. 

Social commentary 

Creative Writing often serves as a potent medium for social commentary, embodying a powerful objective that transcends mere storytelling. Through the art of narrative, poets, novelists, and essayists alike can engage in meaningful discourse about society's values, issues, and challenges. 

Writers use their creative works to shine a light on important societal concerns, question norms, and provoke thought. They employ allegory, satire, symbolism, and other literary techniques to critique, challenge, or explore various aspects of the human condition and the world we inhabit. Whether addressing issues such as inequality, injustice, environmental crises, or political corruption, Creative Writing can be a catalyst for change. 

By portraying the complexities of real-life situations and characters, writers encourage readers to reflect on their own lives and the world around them. This introspection can lead to increased awareness and, ideally, inspire action to address pressing societal issues. 

In essence, the social commentary objective of Creative Writing underscores its role as a mirror reflecting the world's triumphs and flaws. It empowers writers to be advocates for change, storytellers with a purpose, and champions of social justice, ensuring that Creative Writing continues to be a powerful force for positive transformation in society. 

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Purpose of Creative Writing 

Creative Writing serves a multitude of purposes, making it a dynamic and invaluable art form. Beyond its objectives, Creative Writing plays a crucial role in our lives and society, contributing to personal growth, cultural preservation, inspiration, and connection.  

Catharsis 

One of the profound and therapeutic purposes of Creative Writing is catharsis. This aspect of Creative Writing is deeply personal, as it offers writers a means to release pent-up emotions, confront inner turmoil, and find a sense of closure. 

Through the act of writing, individuals can explore their innermost thoughts and feelings in a safe and controlled environment. Whether it's grappling with grief, heartbreak, trauma, or any other emotional burden, Creative Writing provides an outlet to give shape and voice to those complex emotions. It allows writers to dissect their experiences, providing a space for self-reflection and healing. 

The process of transforming raw emotions into words can be both liberating and transformative. It can provide a sense of relief, allowing writers to gain insight into their emotional landscapes. Moreover, sharing these emotions through writing can foster connection and empathy among readers who may have experienced similar feelings or situations, creating a sense of community and understanding. 

Ultimately, catharsis through Creative Writing is a journey of self-discovery and emotional release, offering solace, healing, and a path towards personal growth and resilience. It highlights the profound impact of the written word in helping individuals navigate the complexities of their own inner worlds. 

Cultural preservation 

Creative Writing serves a noble purpose beyond personal expression and entertainment—it plays a vital role in cultural preservation. This objective of Creative Writing involves safeguarding the rich tapestry of human heritage, traditions, and stories for future generations. 

Cultures are defined by their narratives, folklore, and historical accounts. Creative writers, whether chroniclers of oral traditions or authors of historical fiction are the custodians of these invaluable cultural treasures. They document the stories passed down through generations, ensuring they are not lost to time. 

Through Creative Writing, cultures are celebrated, languages are preserved, and unique identities are immortalised. Folktales, myths, and legends are retold, keeping them relevant and alive. These narratives provide insights into the beliefs, values, and wisdom of a society, fostering a deeper understanding of its roots. 

Moreover, Creative Writing bridges cultural divides by sharing stories from diverse backgrounds, fostering empathy and appreciation for the richness of human experience. In this way, Creative Writing becomes a bridge across generations, connecting the past with the present and preserving the collective memory of humanity for a brighter future. 

Inspiration 

One of the transformative purposes of Creative Writing is to inspire others. It is a beacon that shines brightly, guiding aspiring writers and kindling the creative flames within them. Through the power of storytelling and the written word, Creative Writing has the remarkable ability to ignite the spark of imagination and motivation. 

Exceptional works of literature often leave an indelible mark on readers. They can evoke a sense of wonder, curiosity, and passion, motivating individuals to embark on their own creative journeys. Many renowned authors found their calling through the inspiration they drew from the words of others, perpetuating a beautiful cycle of creativity. 

Creative Writing serves as a testament to human potential, showcasing the boundless depths of imagination and the infinite possibilities of language. It encourages individuals to explore their unique perspectives, cultivate their voices, and craft stories that resonate with the human experience. 

For writers and readers alike, Creative Writing is a wellspring of inspiration, a reminder that the world of imagination is boundless and that the written word has the power to shape minds, hearts, and the course of history. Through the act of creation and the sharing of stories, Creative Writing continues to inspire generations to dream, create, and connect with the world in profound ways. 

Connection 

Creative Writing holds a remarkable purpose - it fosters connections. It serves as a bridge between authors and readers, offering a means of understanding, empathy, and human connection that transcends time, space, and cultural boundaries. 

When readers immerse themselves in a well-crafted story, they embark on an emotional journey alongside the characters. This shared experience creates a bond between the author and the reader as both parties navigate the complexities of the human condition together. Readers can see the world through the eyes of characters from diverse backgrounds and cultures, fostering empathy and understanding. 

Furthermore, Creative Writing connects individuals across generations. Literary classics, for example, allow us to connect with the thoughts and emotions of people who lived centuries ago. These timeless works offer insights into the universal aspects of the human experience, reminding us of our shared humanity. 

Creative Writing also has the power to connect people in the present. Through reading and discussion, individuals can form communities, share their interpretations, and engage in meaningful dialogue. Book clubs, literary events, and online forums all provide platforms for people to connect over their love for literature. 

Conclusion 

In conclusion, Creative Writing is a multifaceted art form with diverse objectives and purposes. From self-expression and entertainment to education, social commentary, catharsis, cultural preservation, inspiration, and connection, it enriches our lives in myriad ways. This timeless craft continues to captivate, inspire, and connect us, shaping our world through the power of words. 

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The Smart Approach to Contest Submissions

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thebestdigger@a... replied on April 23, 2013 - 11:31am Permalink

The Smart Approach

Well. Don't we all want to win? Every time? But alas, having won, once, that's not enough to get drunk on it. I've been an "almost won" more times than I can count. But that doesn't deter me. What does? Not having a clue about why. I thought that might be evident by the writing of the dearly won. But even then, I cannot measure why this or that won.

Curiously, I don't find it daunting or even discouraging. I do find it frustrating because often I don't know what is wanted. I do follow the rules to the letter. I do stuff my drawer, reread, rewrite, and often zero back to the original where my soul wrote for me. The exercise has toughened my skin, a nice by-product of the effort. I do write and write and write and I have improved so much. I don't get fancy....that's silly. I do keep track, though my spread sheet contains only about sixty submissions across a few years. I have not made a career out of submitting. Perhaps I should. For instance, it never occurred to me to send an essay to more than one publisher at a time. And I have subscribed to several writers' mags and I see some really impressive...and humbling...work. And some trash.

For your amusement: the first Writer's Conference I attended, intimidated by many fine writers because I was a total newbie, my workshop submission raised the question: who publishes you? Well, either there was some measurement I was missing,  or they had low standards, I thought. But then there was a writing contest. It was called Writing Badly: write the worst possible essay you can think up. And of course, I won......

Thanks for the helpful instruction.

Barbarann Ayars

kkrousseau replied on April 23, 2013 - 11:49am Permalink

What the heck are selfies?

Quite often context reveals meaning but in this case " selfies" in the first paragraph has derailed me. Have you ever heard of a selfy or a selfie? I have a feeling of dread rather like when you can't remember how to spell "the" or "dog" because, for some wierd reason, it suddenly looks wrong or off in some way. Could it be that I have forgotten the word selfies and need more fish oil and exercise?

Nitwits deserve love too.

Four Way Books replied on April 23, 2013 - 12:12pm Permalink

Tips for The Smart Approach to Contest Submissions

I agree with the tips suggested above though I take some issue with one-- regarding the judges. It is important to note that judges don't necessarily choose books that are in alignment with their own writing aesthetic. Quite often, a judge's pick is a manuscript that is stylistically very different from the the judge's own creative work. At Four Way Books, we've seen such selections: Marianne Boruch selected Deborah Bernhardt's Echolalia, Jean Valentine selected George Kalamaras's The Theory and Function of Mangoes, to name a few. The point is, to focus on refining your work and send to a reputable press that you admire. 

taylorbundy replied on April 23, 2013 - 7:32pm Permalink

@kkrousseau taking a "selfie"

@kkrousseau taking a "selfie" is a new term for taking a picture of oneself. .

ssousa replied on April 24, 2013 - 8:25am Permalink

Smart Approach to Contest Submissions

While I appreciate some of the suggestions for strengthening my contest submissions in your article, such as targeting presses, magazines or judges who might be attracted to my work (all of which I do), I take exception to a certain snarky and patronizing tone that seemed to creep in when giving the nuts and bolts of submitting. Let me point out that the tone isn't exclusive to this article, I notice it more and more in submission guidelines. When I'm told not to include in my cover letter "the endearing anecdote about the first time you picked up a crayon and realized you wanted to be a writer." or not to include with my submission "flowers, ribbons, lollipops, chocolate" I wonder who the heck you think your audience is. I, and I assume the majority of your readers, are seasoned writers who view the submission process as a necessary evil, all business, of the writing life. I have submitted hundreds of manuscripts in my life as a writer, winning, coming close and not placing at all. The tone of your article seems to target the fifteen-year-old poet who may think a swirly font will make a nice touch, not at the professional who prints her manuscript, gets it in an envelope and out the door as efficiently as possible. I can't imagine that editors are discovering so much chocolate and lollipops in their submissions that they have to warn against their inclusion in the guidelines. In every case, I vote for a simple set of guidelines that tells me clearly what the editor wants , not what she doesn't want. And while we're at it, how about a little respect for writers on response time and communication over submissions, especially when a writer has been told their is interest and kept waiting.

ssousa replied on April 24, 2013 - 9:48am Permalink

Lesson: should edit letters to editor as well as ms submissions. "There" for "their" in last line.

competitivewriter replied on April 24, 2013 - 12:21pm Permalink

extending this advice a bit

ssousa - you raise some good points.   I've been collecting various writing articles related to writing competitions, and if you want to check out my blog , I think you will find some have a more professional tone.

That said, maybe your criticism is a touch harsh, can we allow the article writer to have a little levity?  I know it's  balance, but I'm sure they never intednded to insult your accomplishments and abilities.

In addition to the points in this article, I'd add:

1. Look locally in terms of geographic region and subject matter expertise.

2. Watch out for populatriy based/public voting contests that are more marketing than writing.

3. Finally, study past winners.

mariabeppa replied on April 28, 2013 - 7:05pm Permalink

paying to enter

When I started years ago, we were told to NEVER enter a contest where they ask for money. Has that changed?..

Search Utah State University:

Learning objectives: creative writing.

For the Creative Writing Emphasis in the BA/BS degrees, the three key Learning Objectives are:

• Tone  of writing invites reader into the work
• Anticipates and  addresses potential resistances  on the part of the reader
• Presents a  matter that the reader will care about  or makes a good case why the reader should care about the topic
• Provides  appropriate credit or citing  of others’ ideas
• Shows  knowledge of the appropriate body of literature  associated with the genre and subject of the writing
• Develops and  original  artistic vision, thesis, or research contribution
• Free of problems  at the sentence level (syntax, usage, grammar)
• Uses  clear and descriptive  language
• Flows  well from paragraph to paragraph

Craft or Commodity? The ‘Paradox’ of High School Creative Writing Competitions

One story of his — which went on to win a national award for flash fiction — begins as a dispassionate description of household events, but turns by the end into a heart-wrenching account of a child dealing with the aftermath of his parents’ divorce. In writing it, Heiser-Cerrato says he was inspired by the struggles of friends who had experienced divorce.

He also wrote it to enter into national creative writing competitions.

In other disciplines, high schoolers compete in elite programs that can serve as pipelines to top colleges. Students interested in STEM fields often strive to qualify for the International Science and Engineering Fair, while those hoping to go into law and politics can apply for the U.S. Senate Youth Program or compete in the national championships for speech and debate.

For students like Heiser-Cerrato, a number of creative writing contests now serve as a similar path to elite college admissions.

Heiser-Cerrato, who won multiple national awards for his prose and poetry, submitted creative writing portfolios to Harvard, Princeton, and the University of Pennsylvania, and he’s sure his creative writing is what propelled him to Harvard.

“It was my main hook,” he says.

Competitions like YoungArts and the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards have skyrocketed in selectivity and prestige over the past few decades, becoming a quantifiable way for colleges to identify rising literary stars. The winners of top competitions disproportionately go on to attend elite universities.

However, selecting the nation’s top storytellers is more complicated than selecting its top scientists. Competitions can’t score poems in the same objective way they score students in a Math Olympiad. Instead, who wins these competitions often comes down to taste. Several former high school creative writers say that specific styles and topic areas disproportionately win national writing competitions. Top competitions, they say, incentivize writers to dredge up traumatic experiences or commodify their cultural backgrounds.

By propelling winners to elite colleges and empowering them to pursue writing, these competitions can change the course of students’ lives. But the pressure to win can also stunt young writers’ growth and complicate their relationship with their craft and themselves.

Creative writing contests aim to promote self expression and foster a new generation of artists. But does turning creative writing into a competition for admissions erode its artistic purpose?

‘The Most Important Experiences of My Life’

H eiser-Cerrato went to a “sports high school” where it was difficult for him to receive the mentorship he needed to improve his writing or find a creative community. With so few fellow writers at his high school, he had no way to judge his talent beyond the confines of his English classes.

Creative writing competitions were founded for students like Heiser-Cerrato. Even a century ago, Maurice Robinson — the founder of Scholastic — was surprised at the gap that existed in recognizing students interested in the arts. In 1923, he hosted the first national Scholastic Art and Writing Competition.

By the 2000s, Scholastic no longer had a monopoly on creative writing competitions. YoungArts was founded in 1981, and the Foyle Young Poets Competition held its inaugural competition in 1998. After the Adroit Journal and Bennington College launched their annual creative writing competitions in the 2010s, competing in multiple creative writing competitions became common practice for aspiring poets and novelists.

When students started finding out about competitions through the internet, competitions like Scholastic doubled in size. The Covid-19 pandemic drove submissions to competitions like Foyle Young Poets up even more. Last year, the Scholastic awards received more than 300,000 entries, up from the 200,000 some entries received in 2005.

Collectively, these contests now receive more than 315,000 creative writing entries a year in categories like poetry, prose, and even spoken word. Students submit individual works of writing, or in some cases portfolios, to be judged by selection panels often consisting of professors and past winners. They are assessed on criteria like “originality, technical skill, and personal voice or vision.”

The Scholastic Art and Writing Awards boasts an impressive list of alumni who have gone on to win the highest literary prizes in their fields. Past winners include lauded writers Stephen King, Sylvia Plath, Joyce Carol Oates, and Amanda S. Gorman ’20.

Hoping to perhaps join this illustrious group, Heiser-Cerrato began applying to competitions his sophomore year. Spurred on by his high school English teacher — who incorporated contest submissions into assignments — Heiser-Cerrato felt the concrete nature of competition deadlines helped hold him accountable.

“When you’re trying to do something creative and you have no feedback loop or deadline, you can get very off track and not develop,” he says. “I never would have done that if there wasn’t a contest to submit to, because then there was no opportunity to get feedback.”

While Heiser-Cerrato went on to win some of Scholastic’s top honors — a National Silver Medal and Silver Medal with Distinction for his senior portfolio — even some who fare less well appreciate the feedback competitions provide.

“I think a lot of people are very cautious to give negative feedback to younger writers,” says Colby A. Meeks ’25, a former poetry editor of the Harvard Advocate. “I think getting rejections from certain contests and losing certain competitions did help me grow as a writer insofar as tempering an ego that I think young writers can very easily get from English teachers.”

Heiser-Cerrato views his experience with the Adroit Journal Summer Mentorship Program — a program that pairs high schoolers with established writers — as “pretty instrumental to my growth.” After applying during his senior year, Heiser-Cerrato met bi-weekly with his mentor, discussing works of other authors and workshopping two stories of his own.

Similarly, when Darius Atefat-Peckham ’23, then a student at the Interlochen Center for the Arts, won a National Silver Medal in the Scholastic competition, he became eligible to apply to the National Students Poet Program. From a pool of finalists submitting more than 23,000 works, Atefat-Peckham was selected as one of five National Student Poets.

“It led me to probably the most important experiences of my life. As a National Student Poet, I got to travel the Midwest and teach workshops to high schoolers and middle schoolers,” he says. “That pretty much set me on my trajectory for wanting to be a teacher someday, wanting to apply myself in the ways that I would need in order to get to a prestigious institution.”

‘If You’re Going to Apply to Harvard…’

W hen Daniel T. Liu ’27 opened his Harvard application portal, he knew exactly why he’d gotten in.

“My application to college was almost solely based on writing,” Liu says.

In high school, along with serving on the editorial staff of multiple literary magazines and attending creative writing summer camps, Liu won dozens of contests — including becoming a YoungArts winner and a 2022 Foyle Young Poet of the Year.

“I actually read my admissions file, and they did mention camps that they know, summer camps like Iowa and Kenyon, which are big teen writing summer programs,” says Liu. “They pointed that out.”

According to The Crimson’s analysis of publicly available data and interviews with multiple students, there is a clear link between high school creative writing contest success and enrollment at highly selective colleges.

From 2019 to 2022, among students with publicly available educational history who won Scholastic’s Gold Medal Portfolio — the competition’s highest award — just over 50 percent enrolled in Ivy League universities or Stanford. Fifteen percent more received writing scholarships or enrolled at creative writing focused colleges.

From 2015 to 2020, 55 percent of the students who won first, second, or third place in the Bennington Young Writers Awards for fiction or poetry enrolled in Ivy League universities or Stanford.

As Atefat-Peckham reflects back on his college application, he knows his creative writing successes were essential in complementing his standardized test scores. While he was proud of his ACT score, he did not believe it would have been enough to distinguish him from other qualified applicants.

Since 2018, three recipients of YoungArts’ top-paying scholarship — the $50,000 Lin Arison Excellence in Writing Award — have matriculated to Harvard. Other winners attended Brown, Swarthmore, and Wesleyan. Recent recipients include Stella Lei ’26, Rhodes Scholar-Elect Isabella B. Cho ’24, and Liu.

Creative writing competitions’ prominence in the college admissions process comes during the most competitive college application environment ever. Harvard’s Class of 2025 received a record-high number 57,435 applicants, leading to the lowest admissions rate in College history.

Eleanor V. Wikstrom ’24, a YoungArts winner and Rhodes Scholar-elect, described YoungArts as “super cool” in allowing her to meet other artists. She also recognized the importance of her participation for college applications.

“I can’t lie: If you think that you’re going to apply to Harvard, it’s very helpful to have some kind of national accolade,” she says.

The ‘Paradox’ of Competitive Art

I n 2021, an anonymously written document accusing student poet Rona Wang of plagiarism made waves in the competitive creative writing community. Wang — who had won awards from MIT and the University of Chicago, was affiliated with Simon & Schuster, and had published a book of short stories — was accused of copying ten works written by other student poets.

According to Liu, this behavior isn’t unprecedented. Several years ago, Liu explains, an “infamous” scandal erupted in the high school creative writing world when a student plagiarized Isabella Cho’s poetry and entered it into competitions.

Liu says more students are beginning to apply to writing competitions out of a desire to have awards on their resume, rather than because of a genuine interest in creative writing.

While creative writing contests can provide valuable opportunities for feedback and mentorship, several students look back on their time in the competitive creative writing circuit with ambivalence. The pressure to write in service of a contest — writing to win, not just to create — can pressure writers to commodify their identities and cash in on their painful experiences, turning a creative outlet into a path to admissions or quest for outside validation.

Liu says he regrets that creative writing competitions are becoming a pipeline to elite college admissions. He’s worried competitions like Scholastic and YoungArts are becoming too similar to programs like the International Science and Engineering Fair.

“Math, science, all these competitions, they all have some aspect of prestige to them,” says Liu. “What makes it so difficult in that regard is that writing isn’t math. It requires a level of personal dedication to that craft.”

“It kind of sucks because a lot of artistic practice should come out of personal will,” says Liu. “To compete in art is paradoxical, right?”

Sara Saylor, who won a gold portfolio prize for her writing, told the New York Times in 2005 that “the awards came to mean too much to me after a while.”

“Whenever Scholastic admissions time rolled around, we began to get very competitive and more concerned about winning the contest than we should have,” she says.

Indeed, students at elite creative high schools like the Interlochen Center for the Arts are pushed by teachers to enter competitions. Hannah W. Duane ’25, who attended the Ruth Asawa San Francisco School of the Arts as part of the creative writing department, was required to submit to three creative writing competitions every six weeks.

(These competitions are dominated by schools like Duane’s. In 2019, 23 Interlochen students received national Scholastic awards for their creative writing — a distinction typically awarded to less than 1 percent of entries.)

Though Liu wasn’t required to submit to contests, he felt a different kind of obligation. Liu says writing competitions pushed him to write almost exclusively about his heritage, keeping him from exploring other narratives.

“From the start, I applied with a lot of cultural pieces, like pieces about my family history,” says Liu. “Those were the ones that won. And so it built me into a cycle where I was only writing about these areas — heritage.”

Liu’s experience wasn’t uncommon. When looking at other winning pieces, he noticed a similar trend.

“The competitions — Scholastic, YoungArts, those two big ones — definitely prioritize writing about your heritage,” says Liu. “Part of the reason behind that is for a lot of the students, that’s a very unique aspect of them.”

“In a hyper-competitive environment, what you can write better than anyone else is what’s gonna make you stand out,” he adds.

In an emailed statement, YoungArts Vice President Lauren Slone wrote that YoungArts winners in writing “must demonstrate a sense of inventiveness, show attention to the complexities and technical aspects of language, and have a clear, original, and distinct point of view.”

Chris Wisniewski ’01, Executive Director of the nonprofit that oversees Scholastic, wrote in an email that the competition has been “welcoming to works across many styles, subjects, and points of view” and does not give “implicit or explicit guidance” to jurors or competitors about the content or style of winning pieces. He added that “on the national level, each piece of writing undergoes at least three separate readings from jurors to diversify the views on its adherence to the program’s original and sole criteria.”

Ryan H. Doan-Nguyen ’25, who received a Scholastic Gold Key and won the New York Times’s Found Poem Contest, notes another way young writers try to distinguish themselves.

“Students feel compelled to embellish or to write about really painful things,” says Doan-Nguyen, a Crimson News Editor. “It does tend to be really heavy hitting topics that make the page.”

According to him and multiple others, the creative writing circuit pushes students to expose deeply personal, sometimes traumatic experiences for academic points. (Students make similar claims about the college admissions process .)

Doan-Nguyen was hesitant to publicly open up about vulnerable experiences, so he shied away from writing about traumatic memories of his own. But he fears this reluctance held him back.

“Maybe that’s why I did not win more contests,” he says. “I was always too afraid to be so vulnerable and raw.”

Duane recalls the competitions being dominated by sobering personal narratives: often stories about authors’ experiences with racism, abuse, or sexual assault. However, her school worked to insulate its students from the pressure to sensationalize.

“The constant refrain we would hear is, ‘Writing is not your therapy. Get that elsewhere,’” she says.

Liu says writing contests not only changed his content — they also pushed him and other competitors to write in the specific style of past winners. He says many successful pieces were reminiscent of the poet and novelist Ocean Vuong.

Writers would cut their lines off at odd places “to give the illusion of mystery when there’s no real thought behind it besides, ‘Hey, it should look like this because it looks pretty like this,’” says Liu. He also recalls writers, especially young poets, using “a lot of language of violence.” Liu worries this overreliance on stylistic imitation can stunt young writers’ growth.

He questions whether the existence of creative writing competitions is helping young writers at all.

“If writing is supposed to be a practice of self-reflection, you’re not doing those things when you plagiarize. You’re not doing those things when you submit just a draft of someone else’s style,” says Liu. “It doesn’t align with what it should be as an artistic practice.”

‘I Will Always Be Writing’

S ince coming to Harvard, Heiser-Cerrato has begun writing for a very different purpose. He joined the Harvard Lampoon, a semi-secret Sorrento Square social organization that used to occasionally publish a so-called humor magazine.

With the structure and pressure of creative writing competitions behind them, he and other past winners are taking their writing in new directions.

“My high school writing was very sentimental and very focused on trying to be profound,” Heiser-Cerrato says. “But here, I’ve been more interested in the entertainment side of things.”

When writing for competitions, Heiser-Cerrato says it was difficult for him to define his goals. But for the Lampoon, he says he just wants to make others laugh. There, Heiser-Cerrato has finally found the sense of community he lacked in high school.

Meeks joined the Harvard Advocate, where he critiques poetry instead of writing it. In high school, Meeks appreciated competitions as an avenue through which to receive feedback on his writing. Now, he works to give those who submit work to the Advocate similar guidance.

“Often, submitting to a literary magazine feels like you’re sending something into a void,” Meeks says. “And I really wanted as much as possible, as much as it was manageable timewise, to make sure that people were getting some feedback.”

Like Meeks, Wikstrom and Doan-Nguyen are also members of campus publications. Wikstrom is the former editorial chair of The Crimson, and Doan-Nguyen is a Crimson News and Magazine Editor.

Wikstrom, who was the Vice Youth Poet Laureate of Oakland in high school for her spoken word poetry, says she loved spoken word poetry in high school because of its capacity to spark action. At Harvard, she saw The Crimson’s Editorial Board as another way to speak out about important issues.

“It’s a really interesting middle ground for creative writing, because you do have the commitment to factual accuracy,” she says. “But you also have more leeway than perhaps news to be injecting your personal voice. And also that urgency of, ‘I feel very strongly about this. And other people should feel strongly about this, too.’”

Unlike Heiser-Cerrato, Atefat-Peckham wasn’t drawn to any existing organization on campus. Though he attended Interlochen and succeeded in highly selective contests while in high school, Atefat-Peckham disagreed with the cutthroat, commodifying incentive structure and believed campus literary organizations like the Advocate and Lampoon were too selective.

When Atefat-Peckham returned to campus after the pandemic, he helped form the Harvard Creative Writing Collective, a non-competitive home for creative writing on campus.

Liu is a member of the Creative Writing Collective and the Advocate. But most of his writing at Harvard has been independent. Instead of writing for competitions, Liu says he’s transitioned to writing for himself.

And though Doan-Nguyen is not sure what he wants to do after college, he — along with Liu, Meeks, Heiser-Cerrato, Wikstrom, and Duane — is sure writing will play a role in it.

“It’s a big part of my life and always has been, and I think it’s made me see so much about the work that I wouldn’t have seen otherwise if I didn’t put my pen to paper,” says Doan-Nguyen.

“I know that no matter what I end up doing, whether that’s going to law school or journalism or just doing nonprofit work, I will always be writing. Writing and writing and writing.”

Correction: February 13, 2024

A previous version of this article included a misleading quote attributed to Ryan Doan-Nguyen.

— Magazine writer Cam N. Srivastava can be reached at [email protected] .

— Associate Magazine Editor Adelaide E. Parker can be reached at [email protected] .

Mastering Writing Competitions: Insider Tips from a Two-Time Winner

06 Apr, 2024 | Blog Articles , English Language Articles , Get the Edge , Humanities Articles , Writing Articles

V. Community and networking

Participating in writing competitions can allow students to connect with fellow writers, mentors and professionals in the literary community. Joining writing groups, workshops or clubs through competitions can provide you with opportunities to share ideas and receive support. 

This not only provides the chance to learn from professionals, but can also help you to feel part of literary circles. Building relationships with experienced writers, editors and publishers fosters guidance and mentorship for you in your writing endeavours. These connections could also help you find and gain access to future opportunities.

Discover More

Thanks for signing up, 12 insider tips to ace a writing competition.

1. Make a list of the requirements

This first one may sound obvious, but it’s easy to accidentally stray from the guidelines set by the competition. Some things to bear in mind include: 

• Minimum and/or maximum word count . This is very important as your entry could be disqualified if it fails to keep within this.
• Form . Is it meant to be a poem, a short story, an essay, a script or something else?
• Prompt material. A question, statement, title, quote or photograph, for example.
• Suggested approaches . This might be a character perspective, line of argument, or particular image or theme.

By keeping a clear list of exactly what is asked of you, you can reference it as you work and ensure your writing meets the requirements. After all, you don’t want to finish your work only to realise that it needs to be partly or fully rewritten.

2. Plan out the timescale

While a competition may have a seemingly-distant deadline, you don’t want to fall into the trap of leaving it to the last minute and having to rush. Note down the deadline on your calendar or in your planner, then schedule in some time to work on your entry. 

You might want to set a few personal goals based on how much needs to be done, and by when. For example, you could set a date for having completed a plan, and another date to have finished a first draft. Make sure you leave enough time to edit and proofread.

3. Seek inspiration

It’s best to give yourself some time to think about the different ways you could approach the topic/question/theme set by the writing competition. For example, you could consider any ideas you may have had in the past, such as storylines, poetic images, characters or arguments, and see if any of them can be adapted to fit the competition’s requirements. 

Alternatively, you may need to seek out material you haven’t encountered before. This might involve reading books or news articles, visits to new or familiar places, or even something as simple as a walk. However, try not to put too much pressure on yourself, and go about your daily routine – it’s often while doing ordinary tasks that you’ll have a eureka moment.

4. Do your research

This is especially important for essay competitions, but applies to any kind of writing competition. For example, for both of my winning entries (a poem from the perspective of Queen Joanna I of Castile, and a short story inspired by a painting by Goya, a Spanish artist), I had to carefully research the historical context in which I was setting my narratives. This not only helped to inform what I was writing, but also provided great material to enrich my work and bring the stories and characters to life.

Sources might include books, websites, podcasts, articles, blogs, images and much more.

When essay-writing, backing up your ideas and arguments with evidence and research is essential to making your work convincing. When reading, it’s good to constantly ask yourself what you think about a particular line of thinking, whether you agree or disagree, or if you feel you could provide a more nuanced perspective. Including this in your essay will help make your work stand out to the judges.

Competitions often require referencing in your work, so make sure you use reliable sources and keep a note of where you’re finding each idea or piece of information. That way it’s easier for you to add any necessary footnotes, a list of sources or a bibliography to your entry.

5. Collect and brainstorm ideas before structuring

Try not to worry too much about the structure of your entry at first, and start by collecting any ideas, themes, images and descriptions you come up with, and any information and arguments you’ve read about. Jotting all of this down in mind-maps, lists or posters for example (whichever works best for you), can help you visualise your work. This makes it easier to find the best way to structure your work later on.

6. Take some time to plan

While it might be tempting to dive straight into writing, and this can be helpful when you have the momentum to write a particular part of your entry, it’s still important to plan. This helps to ensure your work is coherent and each section leads smoothly into the next one. 

For example, you may come up with a few stanzas of a poem or paragraphs of a story or essay before planning. However, it’s always good to take a step back and plan exactly where they’ll fit best within your piece, based on other content you want to include.

7. Play with form

Don’t be afraid to experiment with the form set by the competition. For example, you could research different types of poems, narrative types or ways to structure an essay. Sometimes competitions are more specific – for example, if it should be written in first or third person – but there’s always scope to find your personal approach.

Often, the best entries are those that creatively engage with the possibilities and constraints of the form they’re written in.

8. Experiment with imagery

For more descriptive pieces, it can be helpful to research literary devices and techniques. 

You might want to choose certain motifs or literary images to recur throughout the piece, which can help to provide stylistic unity to your work. Exploring the possibilities of a particular set of images or concepts to be presented in different ways can help to develop your work and showcase your creativity and imagination. 

For example, in my poem about Joanna ‘The Mad’ of Castile, I explored the weight of the charge of ‘madness’ and what it implied about illness, suffering, suppression and control.

Alternatively, using lots of different ways to describe the subject at hand can highlight your versatility and creative potential as a writer.

These tips can also be applied to essay writing, as particular case studies, anecdotes and imagery can help to anchor the focus of your work, highlighting your personal take on the subject.

9. Pay attention to tone

It’s important to bear in mind the tone you want to set for your piece. Will it be light-hearted and humorous, bitterly ironic, serious, dramatic or tragic (or something else entirely)? Think about which approach works best for the competition requirements, and try to be consistent with your tone. 

If you want to change the tenor of the piece as it develops – starting off more light-hearted but ending with a serious note, for example – make sure you’re purposeful with the way the tone changes.

10. Don’t give up!

Everyone suffers from writer’s block sometimes, and it’s normal to get a bit stuck at some stage in the writing process. Try not to get disheartened, and instead take a break and come back to working a bit later. You might feel the need to seek out a new source of inspiration, or your brain may simply be tired and you may need a break to gather your thoughts.

11. Take breaks when you need them

You might get into the ‘zone’ and want to blitz your way through the essay at once, but often we need to take a few breaks to get the cognitive juices flowing and persevere through any bouts of writer’s block as mentioned above.

Exercising, listening to music, playing an instrument, reading for pleasure, and meeting up with friends are just some of the ways that you can take a healthy break. The most important thing is to pay attention to how you’re feeling and do what’s best for you.

12. Proofread, proofread and proofread again!

Once you’ve finished your first draft, take a break and come back to proofread and edit where necessary. Pay attention to spelling, punctuation and grammar, and potentially consider alternative ways of phrasing sentences or structuring your ideas. 

Once you’ve gone through your work once or twice, it’s a good idea to ask for a second (and third) pair of eyes to check for typos and give some feedback. A competition may limit the input of the help of others such as teachers, but as long as you keep within the guidelines, asking for others’ responses is a good way to refine your work and get a feel for how others may respond to your writing. This way, you can ensure everything makes sense and is as effective as possible.

Writing competitions are an amazing opportunity for your personal and academic development, as a way of practising and improving your writing skills, encouraging your creativity and interest, and connecting you to the literary community. 

I hope these tips will guide and encourage you with your writing competition applications. Just remember to have fun and let your creativity shine through!

Costas is currently studying a BA in History and Spanish at the University of Oxford, specialising mainly in medieval history and literature. His interests include reading widely, creative writing, and playing and listening to music.

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Aiming for Success: Creative Writing Objectives Demystified

My name is Debbie, and I am passionate about developing a love for the written word and planting a seed that will grow into a powerful voice that can inspire many.

Understanding the Importance of Setting Clear Objectives in Creative Writing

Identifying personal goals as a creative writer, unleashing your imagination: exploring the boundaries of creative writing, developing effective strategies to achieve writing objectives, crafting compelling characters: objectives and techniques in character development, harnessing the power of language: objectives for enhancing writing style, mastering the art of storytelling: objectives for creating engaging narrative structures, creating engaging narrative structures: key objectives for mastering the art of storytelling, embracing feedback and continuous learning: objectives for growth as a creative writer, frequently asked questions, wrapping up.

Setting clear objectives in creative writing is crucial for achieving success and taking your writing to the next level. By establishing specific goals, you provide yourself with a clear direction and purpose, helping you stay focused and motivated throughout the writing process. These objectives can range from improving your storytelling skills to creating engaging characters or exploring new writing techniques.

One key benefit of setting clear objectives is that it allows you to measure your progress and track your growth as a writer. By breaking down your larger goals into smaller, achievable objectives, you can see tangible results and gain a sense of accomplishment along the way. Additionally, having well-defined objectives enables you to identify areas that may need improvement and prioritize your efforts accordingly. Whether you aim to enhance your descriptive writing or develop a unique writing voice, having clear objectives helps you stay organized and purposeful in your creative endeavors.

When setting objectives in creative writing, consider the following tips :

• Be specific: Clearly define what you want to achieve in your writing. Instead of vague goals like “write better,” focus on specific aspects such as dialogue, pacing, or character development.
• Set realistic goals: While it’s essential to challenge yourself, be mindful of setting objectives that are attainable. This will help prevent frustration and maintain your motivation.
• Prioritize: Determine which objectives are most important to you at the moment. It’s okay to focus on one or two areas at a time until you feel confident enough to move on to others.

The significance of setting clear objectives in creative writing cannot be underestimated. They provide a roadmap for your writing journey, allowing you to navigate through challenges and maximize your potential as a writer. So take the time to identify your objectives, stay committed to your goals, and watch as your creative writing skills flourish before your eyes.

As a creative writer, it is essential to take the time to reflect on and identify your personal goals. Setting clear intentions will not only help you stay focused and motivated, but it will also provide a sense of direction to your writing journey. Here are a few key points to consider when identifying your personal goals as a creative writer:

• Exploring creative genres: Determine the genres that intrigue you the most. Whether it’s fantasy, science fiction, romance, or mystery, focusing on a particular genre will allow you to develop a unique voice and hone your craft.
• Improving writing skills: Constantly striving to improve your writing skills is vital. Consider areas you’d like to develop, such as character development, dialogue, or descriptive writing. Setting specific goals in these areas will help you grow as a writer.
• Expanding your writing network: Networking with other writers opens up opportunities to learn, share ideas, and gain valuable feedback. Whether it’s through workshops, writing groups, or online communities, connecting with fellow writers can provide support and inspiration for your creative journey.

Remember, goal-setting is a personal process, and it’s important to tailor your objectives to align with your unique aspirations and interests as a creative writer. Embrace the freedom to dream and imagine as you embark on this incredible adventure.

Are you ready to embark on an exhilarating journey into the uncharted territories of your imagination? Creative writing is not just about crafting captivating stories; it’s a dynamic process that allows you to push the boundaries of your creativity and discover new worlds within your mind. Whether you’re an aspiring novelist, a poet, or simply someone looking to explore their artistic side, this post will inspire you to unleash your imagination and take your writing to new heights.

One of the key elements in creative writing is the ability to think outside the box. Don’t limit yourself to what you already know or what has been done before. Instead, embrace the unknown, explore unconventional ideas, and challenge traditional storytelling techniques. This is your opportunity to break free from the confines of reality and create your own rules.

• Experiment with genres: Don’t be afraid to mix and match genres to create something entirely unique. Combine elements of sci-fi and romance or blend mystery with fantasy. The possibilities are endless!
• Play with perspectives: Try writing from different points of view to add depth and complexity to your stories. Explore the mind of a villain or tell a tale from the perspective of an inanimate object.
• Break free from linear narratives: Who says a story has to follow a linear path? Experiment with non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives to add intrigue and captivate your readers.

When it comes to achieving writing objectives, it is crucial to develop effective strategies that can help streamline the writing process and enhance the quality of your work. These strategies not only assist in organizing your thoughts but also ensure that your writing is concise, coherent, and impactful. Here are some key tips to consider:

• Define your writing objectives: Before you begin any writing task, it is essential to clearly define your objectives. Whether it’s to persuade, inform, or entertain your audience, having a clear goal in mind will guide your writing process and help you stay focused.
• Create an outline: A well-structured outline acts as a roadmap for your writing. It helps you organize your ideas, establish a logical flow, and maintain coherence throughout your piece. Divide your content into sections and subheadings, ensuring a smooth transition between each point. This not only makes your writing more comprehensive but also saves you time during the revision process.
• Research and gather relevant information: To create compelling content, it is important to conduct thorough research on your topic. This allows you to gather accurate information and support your arguments with credible sources. Remember to critically analyze the information you find and avoid relying solely on a single source.

Additionally, honing your writing skills and seeking feedback can greatly contribute to achieving your objectives. Here are a few more strategies to consider:

• Practice and refine: Like any other skill, writing requires practice to improve. Set aside dedicated time to practice writing regularly. Experiment with different writing styles, tones, and formats to develop versatility as a writer.
• Seek feedback: Feedback is invaluable in sharpening your writing skills. Share your work with trusted individuals, such as mentors, peers, or writing groups, and encourage them to provide constructive criticism. Be open to suggestions and learn from the feedback you receive to continuously enhance your writing.
• Edit and revise: The final step in achieving your writing objectives is thorough editing and revision. Take the time to review your work, focusing on grammar, punctuation, clarity, and overall coherence. Polish your sentences, eliminate unnecessary fluff, and ensure that your message shines through crystal clear.

By implementing these strategies, you can develop a solid foundation for achieving your writing objectives. Remember, consistency and perseverance are key, so practice regularly, seek feedback, and never stop refining your writing skills.

Creating memorable and compelling characters is an essential aspect of storytelling that can make a world of difference in captivating your readers or viewers. Successful character development requires a careful blend of creativity, planning, and understanding of human psychology. In this post, we will explore the objectives and techniques to help you craft characters that will not only engage your audience but also leave a lasting impact.

• Relatability: One of the primary objectives of character development is to create relatable individuals that resonate with your audience. By crafting characters with whom readers can identify or empathize, you can establish an emotional connection that keeps them invested in your story.
• Depth: A multi-dimensional character is far more captivating than a one-dimensional stereotype. Aim to give your characters depth by exploring their backstory, personality traits, motivations, and flaws. This complexity humanizes them and makes their journey more intriguing.
• Growth: Characters that evolve and learn throughout the narrative hold great appeal. By setting up challenges and obstacles that they must overcome, you can showcase their growth, making them more relatable and inspiring to your audience.
• Show, Don’t Tell: Instead of explicitly stating a character’s traits or emotions, employ the technique of showing it through their actions, dialogue, and interactions with others. This allows readers to form their own opinions and connect with the characters on a deeper level.
• Conflict: Introducing internal and external conflicts adds depth and tension to your characters, driving the story forward. These conflicts reveal their true nature, test their limits, and provide opportunities for growth and transformation.
• Unique Voice: Each character should have their distinct voice and speech patterns. The way they communicate reflects their background, personality, and experiences, making them more authentic and memorable.

By keeping these objectives and techniques in mind, you can embark on a journey of character development that brings your fictional creations to life and captivates your audience.

The Power of Language: Objectives for Enhancing Writing Style

Improving your writing style can have a profound impact on how your message is received. By harnessing the power of language, you can captivate your readers, convey your ideas effectively, and leave a lasting impression. In this section, we will explore some key objectives that will help enhance your writing style and elevate your written communication to new heights.

• Vary Sentence Structure: Avoid monotony in your writing by using a blend of short and long sentences. This will create a rhythm and flow, making your content more engaging and dynamic.
• Choose Precise Words: Selecting the right words is crucial for conveying your message accurately and concisely. Use vivid and descriptive language to paint a clear picture in the minds of your readers.
• Show, Don’t Tell: Instead of simply stating facts, try to show your readers what you mean through vivid imagery, storytelling, and sensory details. This will make your writing more vivid and relatable.
• Use Active Voice: Active voice helps make your sentences clear and direct. It adds energy to your writing and avoids ambiguity that passive voice can create.

Harnessing the power of language is both an art and a skill that can be honed with practice. These objectives will serve as a solid foundation for enhancing your writing style and connecting with your readers on a deeper level. Remember, a well-crafted piece of writing has the potential to leave a lasting impact and make a difference in the world.

When it comes to captivating an audience, storytelling is an essential skill that can elevate your content to new heights. To create engaging narrative structures, mastering a few key objectives is crucial. These objectives serve as your weapon of choice, enabling you to connect with your audience on a deeper level and weave an unforgettable tale that leaves a lasting impact.

1. Develop compelling characters: The heart and soul of any story lies in its characters. Take the time to create three-dimensional characters that your readers can relate to, empathize with, and root for. Give them unique personalities, strengths, and flaws that add depth and authenticity to your narrative. By breathing life into your characters, you will hook your audience, keeping them invested in your story from start to finish.

2. Craft a captivating plot: A well-crafted plot will keep your readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly turning pages or scrolling further. Engage your audience by establishing a clear conflict or obstacle that your characters must overcome. Incorporate unexpected twists and turns to add suspense and excitement. A carefully planned plot will ensure that your narrative structure holds their attention, leaving them hungry for more.

As a creative writer, embracing feedback and continuous learning is crucial for personal and professional growth. By actively seeking and valuing feedback, you open yourself up to new perspectives and insights that can enhance your writing skills and style. Embracing feedback also demonstrates your willingness to improve and learn from others, honing your craft and evolving as a writer.

Continuous learning is an essential objective for any creative writer. It allows you to stay updated on industry trends, techniques, and new literary forms, expanding your repertoire of writing skills. To embrace continuous learning, consider:

• Engaging in writing workshops or joining a writing critique group to receive constructive feedback and learn from fellow writers.
• Seeking out professional development opportunities, such as attending writing conferences or seminars.
• Exploring different genres and styles of writing to broaden your creative horizons.
• Reading widely and exploring literature from different eras and cultures, which can inspire and inform your own writing.

By actively embracing feedback and making continuous learning a priority, you pave the way for growth and improvement as a creative writer. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself; it is through this process that you will refine your craft and unlock your full potential as a writer.

Q: What are the creative writing objectives that can lead to success? A: Creative writing encompasses various objectives such as developing a unique writing style, crafting engaging narratives, evoking emotions in readers, and effectively communicating ideas.

Q: How can I develop a distinct writing style? A: Developing a unique writing style involves experimenting with different writing techniques, exploring different genres, and understanding your own voice as a writer. Embrace your individuality and let your style naturally evolve as you continue to write.

Q: What is the key to crafting engaging narratives? A: Crafting engaging narratives requires a combination of elements such as a well-structured plot, compelling characters, interesting conflicts, and vivid descriptions. By balancing these elements, you can create stories that captivate readers and keep them invested in your writing.

Q: How can I evoke emotions in my readers? A: To evoke emotions in your readers, it’s essential to create relatable characters and situations. Utilize descriptive and sensory language to engage readers’ senses, making them feel connected to the story emotionally. Additionally, incorporating authentic and meaningful experiences can help elicit strong emotional responses from readers.

Q: How can I effectively communicate my ideas through writing? A: Effective communication in creative writing involves clarity, coherence, and conciseness. Present your ideas in a logical manner, making sure each sentence and paragraph flows smoothly. Utilize powerful and precise language to convey your thoughts and ensure they resonate with readers.

Q: Are there any tips for overcoming writer’s block? A: When faced with writer’s block, try switching up your environment, engaging in activities that inspire creativity, and setting specific writing goals . Freewriting, brainstorming, or discussing ideas with others can also help to overcome the creative block.

Q: How important is feedback in creative writing? A: Feedback plays a crucial role in improving your creative writing skills. Seek feedback from trusted sources, such as writing groups or mentors, who can provide constructive criticism and suggestions for improvement. Embrace feedback as an opportunity for growth and learning.

Q: Should I focus on creativity or technical aspects of writing? A: Both creativity and technical aspects are vital for successful creative writing. While creativity allows you to bring fresh and imaginative ideas to life, technical skills such as grammar, punctuation, and proper sentence structure are essential for effective communication. Strive to strike a balance between creativity and technical proficiency in your writing.

Q: How can I stay motivated throughout my creative writing journey? A: It’s important to set realistic goals and celebrate small victories . Surround yourself with a supportive community of writers and regularly engage in activities that inspire and fuel your creativity. Remember your passion for writing and the joy it brings you, as this will serve as a constant source of motivation.

In conclusion, understanding the objectives of creative writing is the key to achieving success in this expressive art form. So, let your imagination soar and embark on a creative journey like no other!

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The CollegeVine Ultimate Guide to High School Writing Contests

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There are some unique skills that are harder than others to capture on the college application. Students who excel at sports will often have a long list of tangible achievements. Students who produce fine arts or participate in student leadership programs will easily find ways to highlight their participation in these extracurriculars on college applications. But writers will often have a harder time highlighting the skills, time, and energy put into perfecting the craft of writing. If you are a student who excels at writing, how can you draw attention to your abilities and dedication on your college application? Are high grades in the humanities and a well-written essay enough? How can you show that this skill is something you pursue as an extracurricular activity outside of regular school hours?

Writing contests are a great way to highlight your dedication to and success in writing.

Winning a writing contest does much more than simply look good on your college application. Many serious writing contests at the high school level offer prizes. Some are cash awards, and others come in the form of a scholarship, often to a summer writing program . Winning a writing contest can also help you to form and nurture a lasting relationship with the institute that hosts the contest. Additionally, numerous writing contests offer multiple levels of recognition, so you do not have to be the top winner to earn a title that will look good on your college application.

Although winning a writing contest is not easy, it can be the perfect way to show that you’re serious about your craft. Below are sixteen distinguished writing contests across all genres, open to high school students. Read on to learn about eligibility, prizes, submissions deadlines, and more!

1.  The Atlantic & College Board Writing Prize

About: Hosted by the College Board in collaboration with the publication The Atlantic, the focus of this annual contest changes each year “to align with the introduction of a newly redesigned AP course and exam.”

Prizes: One grand prize winner receives $5,000 and has their winning submission printed in the September issue of The Atlantic. Two finalists also receive $2,500 each.  

Who is Eligible: Students 16-19 years of age

Important Dates: January: Annual essay topic released. February 28: Submission deadline. May: Winners announced.

Genre of Writing: Essay, topics vary by year

Level of Competition: Most Competitive

Full Rules Available Here

2.   National Council of Teachers of English Achievement Awards

About: Hosted annually by the National Council of Teachers of English, these awards seek to “encourage high school students in their writing and to publicly recognize some of the best student writers.”

Prizes: Students judged as having superior writing skills receive a certificate and a letter. Their names also appear on the NCTE website. In 2016, 533 high school juniors were nominated, and of them, 264 received Certificates for Superior Writing. 

Who is Eligible: High school juniors who are nominated by their school’s English department. The number of nominees allowed from each school depends on their enrollment.

Important Dates: October: Writing theme released. November to Mid-February: Entries accepted. May: Winners announced.

Genre of Writing: Students submit one themed essay based on a given prompt, and one choice piece from any genre displaying their “best work”.

Level of Competition: Very Competitive

3.   National Scholastic Art and Writing Awards

About: This contest begins regionally and progresses to the national level. Local organizations host regional competitions and winners from these are sent on for national consideration. This is a huge contest and it received nearly 320,000 entries in 29 categories across writing and the arts in 2016. Of those entries, 85,000 were recognized at the regional level and 2,500 received national medals. There is a submission fee of $5 per entry, or $20 per portfolio, but this can be waived for students who apply and meet the standards for financial assistance.  

Prizes: At the regional level, students win Honorable Mentions, Silver or Gold Keys, or Nominations for the American Visions and Voices Medals. Regional Gold Key winners are then evaluated for national honors that include Gold and Silver Medals or the American Visions and Voices Medal, which serves as a “Best in Show” award for each region. National award winners are invited to a National Ceremony and celebration at Carnegie Hall in New York City. There are several sponsored cash awards at the national level, ranging by genre and sponsor, and some National Medal winners will be selected for scholarships to colleges or summer programs as well.      

Who is Eligible: All U.S. students in grades 7-12.

Important Dates: Regional deadlines vary; search for yours here . National winners are announced in the spring and the National Ceremony is held in June each year.

Genre of Writing: Critical Essay, Dramatic Script, Flash Fiction, Humor, Journalism, Novel Writing, Personal Essay & Memoir, Poetry, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Short Story, Writing Portfolio (graduating seniors only)

Level of Competition: Regionally: Somewhat Competitive Nationally: Very Competitive

4. Letters About Literature

About: This is a reading and writing contest sponsored by the Center for the Book in the Library of Congress. It invites students to write a letter to the author (living or dead) of a book, poem, or speech that has affected them personally. Letters are judged at state and national levels.

Prizes: The National Winner at each level receives a $1,000 cash award. Two National Honor Winners at each level receive a $200 cash award.

Who is Eligible: Students in grades 4-12. (Grades 4-6 are in Level 1, Grades 7-8 are in Level 2, and Grades 9-12 are in Level 3.)

Important Dates: Submission deadline vary according to level and state.

Genre of Writing: Letters, written to a prompt.

5.   Princeton University Contests

About: Princeton University hosts two contests for high school juniors. One is a poetry contest judged by members of the Princeton University Creative Writing faculty. The other is a Ten-Minute Play Contest judged by members of the Princeton University Program in Theater faculty. They offer no information about how many entrants they receive each year, but in the past 20 years, at least five winners have gone on to become Princeton students.

Prizes: Each contest has a first place prize of $500, second place prize of $250, and third place prize of $100.

Who is Eligible: High school juniors

Important Dates: The Poetry Contest submission period for 2017 is now closed; dates for 2018-2019 school year have not been announced. The Ten-Minute Play Contest will publish new application materials this fall; submissions are due April 2, 2018 with winners announced online by June 6, 2018.

Genre of Writing: Poetry and Playwriting

Level of Competition: Competitive

6. Ocean Awareness Student Contest

About: A relatively new competition, the Bow Seat Ocean Awareness Program and the Ocean Awareness Contest was founded in 2011 with a mission to “inspire the next generation of ocean caretakers through education and engagement with the arts, science, and advocacy.” It challenges entrants to think creatively about human impact on our oceans and coastal environment. An interdisciplinary contest, it welcomes art, poetry, prose, and film entries. Though it is only five years old, it is rapidly growing. It received over 2,100 entrants in 2015 and has already awarded more than $100,000 in scholarships. The theme changes each year, but it always relates to the connection between humans and the ocean.    

Prizes: The contest is divided into high school and middle school levels, and there are 26 cash awards available for writing in each age group, ranging from $100 to $1,500.      

Who is Eligible: Individuals or groups in grades 6-12

Important Dates: The 2018 contest opened on Sept. 18, 2017 and entries must be received by June 18, 2018 11:59 p.m. ET. Winners are announced in January 2019.    

Genre of Writing: Poetry or prose and an accompanying reflection piece.

Level of Competition: Somewhat Competitive

7. The Bennington Young Writers Awards

About: Bennington College boasts among its alumna seven Pulitzer Prize winners, three US poet laureates, and countless New York Times bestsellers. Judges for its young writers’ contest include faculty and students from Bennington College. In 2015, it received more than 2,300 submissions. 

Prizes: First place winners in each category receive $500; second place winners receive $250

Who is Eligible: Students in grades 10-12

Important Dates: Submissions will be accepted starting September 4, 2018 until November 1, 2018. Winners announced after April 15, 2019.

Genre of Writing: Poetry, Fiction, and Nonfiction (personal or academic essay), fewer than 1500 words

8. The New Voices One-Act Competition for Young Playwrights

About: The New Voices One-Act Competition for Young Playwrights is hosted by YouthPLAYS, an organization that publishes plays and musicals for performance by schools and theaters for young audiences. The contest, founded in 2010, is designed to encourage young writers to create new pieces for the stage. There are also similar contests run at the regional and local level under the same “New Voice Playwrights” title, though rules, eligibility and prizes vary.      

Prizes: The winner receives $200 in addition to representation of their play through YouthPLAYS publishing. The runner-up receives $50.

Who is Eligible: Authors 19 years old or younger

Important Dates: Submission deadline is May 1, 2018 and winners are announced in the fall.

Genre of Writing: 10-40 minute single act plays suitable for school productions

9. YoungArts

About: The National YoungArts Foundation was founded in 1981 with a mission to identify and support the next generation of artists in the visual, design, literary, and performing arts.   Thousands of students apply each year and winners attend weeklong programs offered in Los Angeles, New York, and Miami. At these programs, students participate in workshops with master artists. It is also the only path to nomination for the U.S. Presidential Scholars in the Arts. There is a $35 application fee, but fee waivers are available for students who qualify.

Prizes: Regional Honorable Mentions are invited to participate in regional workshops. Finalists are invited to participate in National YoungArts week where they have the opportunity to meet with the panel of judges and can win cash prizes up to $10,000. Finalists are also eligible for a U.S. Presidential Scholar in the Arts nomination.

Who is Eligible: Students in grades 10-12 or ages 15-18, U.S. citizens or permanent residents only.

Important Dates: Applications open Spring 2018 and submissions are due by mid-October for the following year’s programs.

Genre of Writing: Creative nonfiction, novel, play or script, poetry, short story, or spoken word

10. The Patricia Grodd Poetry Prize for Young Writers

About: The Kenyon Review literary magazine of Kenyon College sponsors this writing contest aimed at encouraging and recognizing outstanding young poets. 

Prizes: First place winner receives a full scholarship to the weeklong Kenyon Review summer program. Two runners-up receive partial scholarships. All three award-winning pieces are published in The Kenyon Review .

Who is Eligible: Students in grades 10-11

Important Dates: Submissions are open Nov 1- Nov 30 and winners are announced in February. 

Genre of Writing: Poetry

11. The Claremont Review Writing Contest

About: The Claremont Review is an international magazine for young writers. It publishes poetry, short stories, short plays, graphic art, and photography twice annually in issues released in the spring and fall. Based in Canada, The Claremont Review was founded in 1992 by a group of editors who saw a need to “provide young adult artists with a legitimate venue to display their work.” Their contest is hosted annually, and there is a $20 USD fee for entries from outside Canada, and $20 CAD for entries inside Canada.        

Prizes: Cash prizes between $400 CAD and $1,000 CAD are awarded in poetry, fiction, and visual arts categories. All winners and honorable mentions are published in the fall issue of the magazine.

Who is Eligible: Young adults aged 13-19 may submit previously unpublished work written in English.

Important Dates: Submissions are open from January 15 to March 15 each year. Winners are announced in May

Genre of Writing: Poetry and fiction

12. Richard G. Zimmerman Scholarship

About: Slightly different in structure, this award is a scholarship rather than a traditional writing contest. It was endowed by Richard G. Zimmerman, a member of the National Press Club who died in 2008. One annual scholarship is awarded to a high school senior who intends to pursue a career in journalism. Applicants must submit three samples of journalistic work along with three letters of recommendation, a high school transcript, a signed copy of the financial aid form (FAFSA), and a letter of acceptance to college or documentation of where you have applied.    

Prizes: One-time $5,000 scholarship

Who is Eligible: High school seniors who seek to pursue a career in journalism

Important Dates: Applications must be postmarked by March 1 each year.

Genre of Writing: Journalism

13. Signet Classics Student Scholarship Essay Contest

About: Signet Classics, an imprint of Penguin Books, has hosted this high school essay contest annually for 21 years. Essays must be submitted by an English teacher on behalf of his or her student, and must respond to one of five prompts on the annually selected text. The 2017 text is The Tempest.    

Prizes: Five cash prizes of $1,000 each are awarded to winners, with each winner’s school library also receiving a Signet Classics Library. 

Who is Eligible: High school juniors and seniors, and home-schooled students who are between the ages of 16-18; students must reside in the fifty United States and the District of Columbia.

Important Dates: Entries for the 2018 contest must be postmarked by April 14, 2018 and received on or before April 21, 2018. Winners will be announced at the end of June.

Genre of Writing: Academic essay

14. National High School Essay Contest by the United States Institute of Peace

About: The United States Institute of Peace (USIP) partners with the American Foreign Service Association (AFSA) to host this annual contest aimed to engage “high school students in learning and writing about issues of peace and conflict, encouraging appreciation for diplomacy’s role in building partnerships that can advance peacebuilding and protect national security.” The 2017 theme asks students to put themselves in the place of U.S. diplomats addressing the refugee crisis in one of four countries: Turkey, Iraq, Kenya, or Afghanistan. Students should consult the contest Companion Guide to help shape their answers and must also submit a list of references used.    

Prizes: One winner receives a $2,500 cash award, an all-expense paid trip to Washington, D.C. to meet the Secretary of State, and a full scholarship for one semester aboard the Semester at Sea Program upon enrollment at an accredited university. One runner-up receives a cash prize of $1,250 and a full scholarship to participate in the International Diplomacy Program of the National Student Leadership Conference.

Who is Eligible: “Students whose parents are not in the Foreign Service are eligible to participate if they are in grades nine through twelve in any of the fifty states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. territories, or if they are U.S. citizens attending high school overseas. Students may be attending a public, private, or parochial school. Entries from home-schooled students are also accepted.”

Important Dates: Entries must be submitted by March 15, 2018. Winners are announced in July.

Genre of Writing: Letter, written to address a prompt.

15. We the Students Essay Contest by Bill of Rights Institute  

About: Sponsored by the Bill of Rights Institute, this essay contest challenges students to think critically and creatively about the rights of the people and how they impact the greater society. The 2017 prompt asks students to specifically consider civil disobedience and think critically about whether peaceful resistance to laws positively or negatively impacts a free society. Students are encouraged to use specific examples and current events to back up their thinking.      

Prizes: One grand prize winner receives $5,000 and a scholarship to Constitutional Academy. Six runners-up receive $1,250 each, and eight honorable mentions receive $500 each.

Who is Eligible: U.S. citizens or legal residents between the ages of 14-19, attending school in the fifty United States, the District of Columbia, U.S. territories, or American Armed Forces schools abroad. 

Important Dates: Submissions typically start in September and must be completed by early February. Winners are announced in April.

Genre of Writing: Essay

Level of Competition: Very Competitive.

16. Profile in Courage Essay Contest by JFK Presidential Library

About: Hosted annually, the Profile in Courage Essay Contest will be marking the 100th anniversary of John F. Kennedy’s birth in 2017, and is doubling prizes to celebrate. This contest is inspired by JFK’s book, Profiles in Courage , which recounted the stories of eight U.S. senators who displayed political courage in standing up for a greater good and risking their careers by doing so. The contest asks entrants to describe and analyze an act of political courage in the form of a similar profile. 

Prizes: First place prize of $20,000. Twenty-five smaller cash awards ranging from $100 to $1,000.

Who is Eligible: “The contest is open to United States high school students in grades nine through twelve attending public, private, parochial, or home schools; U.S. students under the age of twenty enrolled in a high school correspondence/GED program in any of the fifty states, the District of Columbia, or the U.S. territories; and U.S. citizens attending schools overseas.”

Important Dates: The contest deadline is in early January, though official dates for 2019 have not been posted yet.

Writing in all genres is an art form. Students who are passionate about it will find that writing contests provide them with a platform for highlighting their skills, receiving recognition at the local, regional and national levels, and even receiving valuable cash prizes or scholarships. Not to mention writing awards look great on your college application and draw attention to a sometimes overlooked art form.

Want access to expert college guidance — for free? When you create your free CollegeVine account, you will find out your real admissions chances, build a best-fit school list, learn how to improve your profile, and get your questions answered by experts and peers—all for free. Sign up for your CollegeVine account today to get a boost on your college journey.

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How To Win a Writing Contest

by Joe Bunting | 33 comments

Writing contests are a great way to practice your writing skills and win prizes. Do you want to learn how to win a writing contest? 

If you enter a writing contest, there are a ton of benefits. It's a chance to practice your writing. It motivates you to write more and finish  stories.

And, of course, most writing contests come with grand prize winners and prize money.

In this article, you can learn how to enter a writing contest and how to win one. Read on to learn more!

How NOT to Win a Writing Contest

Before you learn how to become a contest winner, it's worth knowing what will prevent you from winning a contest. Let's get the obvious out of the way.

Submitting a proofed entry that is free of writing errors and follows the contest guidelines is  the minimum requirement you need to meet if you want to win a writing contest.

Here are some common mistakes that prevent writers from winning, entry after entry:

• Don't proofread . Do I really need to tell you to proofread? Personally, I'm lenient when it comes to some typos. If the piece is excellent but has two or three mistakes. I recognize that there is time to fix them before we publish the story. A grammatical error every once in a while won't break your story, but enough that clutters the story will.
• Knowingly or unknowingly break grammar rules . If you want to win, observe proper grammar . Again, I don't really need to tell you this, do I?
• Write 1,000 words more than the word count limit . You will  not  win a writing contest if you submit a 2,500 word story to a writing contest asking for contest entries 1,500 words or less. Don't waste your entry fee.
• Submit a literary fiction masterpiece to a supernatural romance contest . Yes, that's a recipe for failure. Writing contests generally lean toward certain genres. If the genre is not explicitly stated, read previously published stories from the contest to get a sense of what the judges will be looking for.
• If there is a theme, ignore it . Writing contests often ask for pieces that fit a certain theme or even follow a prompt. A good way to lose a writing contest is to ignore the contest theme requirements and write whatever you feel like.

These are  obvious, right? I would like to believe that they are, but I've judged enough writing contests to know that many people  don't  seem to understand these tips.

Now, on to the bulk of this article: how to win a writing contest.

Note: These are just the base requirements. Following them will only ensure that your piece is considered, not chosen as the winner.

How to Write a Winning Short Story Idea

How do you write a story that could win a writing contest? And how do you find a really great short story idea? In this coaching video, Joe gets coached by author Sarah Gribble, the #1 bestselling author of SURVIVING DEATH.

She helps Joe workshop his short story to turn it into what will hopefully be a winning short story. If you've ever wanted to win a writing contest, this is absolutely going to help you.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SBQXbNje0ec

5 Tips to Win a Writing Contest

When it comes to winning story contests, follow these five tips:

1. Recognize you are human

This may be a strange way to begin a list of tips on how to win a writing contest, but let me explain.

Stephen King once said, “To write is human, to edit is divine.” But instead of the word “edit,” you could substitute the phrase “judge writing contests,” because editors and writing contest judges play a similarly godlike role.

To scrutinize the actions of the judges of a writing contest is impossible.

All writing is subjective. A judge attempts to say, “This story is good,” or “This story is bad,” but really, they are just choosing based on their own idiosyncratic taste. Winning comes down to a judge's experience—and luck.

What is the writer to do, then? Submit your piece, pray it wins, and then go write your next story (and find a new contest to submit to). Nothing else can be done for a creative writing competition.

This is why winning—although ideal (it comes with cash prizes or an honorable mention)—isn't the only reason you should enter a writing contest. There are other benefits like getting constructive feedback and giving yourself a time commitment that will motivate you to finish writing your story.

In a real life writing career, you have to keep writing and submitting based on the guidelines. A contest is great practice. 

2. Your main character must be fascinating

What fascinates humans the most is contrast.

Light vs. Darkness. Good vs. evil. A good character trait for a hero battling the evil in the world. A normal person battling the evil inside themselves. An evil person drawn, despite themselves, to a moment of goodness.

Life vs. death. A woman's struggle against cancer, against a villain that wants to kill her, against the deathly banality of modern life.

Love vs. loss.

Neat vs. messy.

Contrast fascinates readers. Does your main character have contrast? If you want to win a writing contest, they should.

3. Surprise endings

I love surprise endings. All judges do. However, I hate  out of the blue endings.

A good surprise ending can be predicted from the very beginning, but the author skillfully distracts you so that you never expect it (the traditional method of distracting the reader is to use red herrings ).

Bad writing is creating a surprise ending that cannot be predicted and feels like the writer is simply trying to give the reader something they would never expect.

Instead, surprise the reader. Don't make up the most shocking ending without providing the clues to this ending earlier in the story.

4. Repeat with a twist

In the last few lines of your story, repeat something from earlier in the story with a twist. This echoed ending will reverberate with your reader giving closure and emotional power.

For example, you might repeat the opening image . If the snow is falling in the first lines of the story, you might say, “As night closed, the snow continued to fall. He thought it would fall for all his life.”

You might repeat an action . If your character is eating at a diner with his wife in the first scene, perhaps in the last scene he is eating alone at the same diner all alone.

You might  repeat a character . If your heroine has a meet-cute with an attractive man early in the story, you can end the story with him unexpectedly showing up at her workplace.

Repeating with a twist gives your ending an artful sense of unity. It's also really fun!

5. Write what you know (even if what you know never happened)

In one writing contest, I read a story written by a Brazilian writer about American kids driving around, eating hamburgers, and going to prep school.

“Write what you know,” I wrote to her over email. “I'm sure there are fascinating stories where you live. But don't regurgitate stories you see on American television. You will never know that world as deeply as you know your own.”

On the other hand,  Ursula Le Guin said this about the advice to write what you know :

I think it’s a very good rule and have always obeyed it. I write about imaginary countries, alien societies on other planets, dragons, wizards, the Napa Valley in 22002. I know these things. I know them better than anybody else possibly could, so it’s my duty to testify about them.

How to (Really) Win a Writing Contest

There is, of course, no guaranteed way to win a writing contest. All you can do is write your best piece, follow the contest rules and submit. Unfortunately, there are no shortcuts.

All that's to say, don't over think this.

If You Want a Little More Help…

In case you're feeling stuck, we offer a free guide to help you come up with better short story ideas, and thus have a better shot at winning writing contests.

You're welcome to download the guide, for free, here:

Click here to get 10 Questions for Better Story Ideas free »

I hope you enjoy the guide, and most of all, I hope you write some really great stories.

Want more tips? Here are a few good resources:

• Upcoming Writing Contests from The Write Practice
• Ten Secrets To Write Better Stories
• How to Write a Short Story With Deep Structure (And Win a Prize for It)
• How do contest judges pick the winners?
• 20 Tips For Winning Writing Contests

Have you ever entered a writing contest? How did it go?  Let us know in the comments section .

As you prepare for your next writing contest, get a free copy of our 1-page guide, 10 Questions for Better Story Ideas here »

Spend fifteen minutes creating two characters with high contrast (see Tip #2). Write one paragraph describing the first character and another paragraph describing the second.

Then, post your two paragraphs in the Pro Practice Workshop . And if you do post, please be sure to give feedback to your fellow writers.

Have fun and happy writing!

Joe Bunting

Joe Bunting is an author and the leader of The Write Practice community. He is also the author of the new book Crowdsourcing Paris , a real life adventure story set in France. It was a #1 New Release on Amazon. Follow him on Instagram (@jhbunting).

Want best-seller coaching? Book Joe here.

Work with Joe Bunting?

WSJ Bestselling author, founder of The Write Practice, and book coach with 14+ years experience. Joe Bunting specializes in working with Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Historical Fiction, How To, Literary Fiction, Memoir, Mystery, Nonfiction, Science Fiction, and Self Help books. Sound like a good fit for you?

33 Comments

I haven’t entered many contests before but am trying for the flavor of the month contest on unigo. I am stuck with finding a unique and captivating story idea because it has to be under 250 words.

To win? Yes that is a goal. However, more than that I would absolutely love feedback from the judges. That was one thing that as a swim referree I ALWAYS had to do. If I disqualified a swimmers race, I absolutely had to talk to the swimmer and explain why I called what I called.

I miss that here. I get great feedback from the group, but I would love to hear why my story fell in the place it fell. It’s ok, if it lost the toin coss … uh … coin toss. That means it was close and the next time it might be me. However, if I have a writing habit that will always get my story tossed in the round file, I want to know that, even more so.

I do appreciate always getting published, but I’d love to see the judges crib notes on my submittals.

thank you so much I just got an idea how to end my story while reading this. concerning writing contest to be honest I never did the how to loose rules but didn’t do the how to win either so I need to work on that. thank you again

I’ve never entered a writing contest. One reason is that I haven’t really researched writing contests. I assume that most contests are not in my genre like sci-fi or horror. I guess that’s what make them “Creative Writing” contests. The overlying reason, however, is fear of rejection, and I’ve never submitted anything. When I read literary magazines, I get so envious o what others write, I doubt myself as a writer. I get everyone has their own style and voice. I guess I’m not confident in myself to enter a contest.

I can relate to everything you’re saying here. I entered the Becoming Writer contest (associated with this blog) because the email came to my inbox and it includes 6 weeks access to the critique group forum. (I promise I’m getting no kickback for plugging their contest.)

I haven’t submitted my story yet. They’re not due until the 20th, and we get to workshop them first. I’ll be posting it for feedback today. We’ll see how it goes.

I’ve never entered a competition before, until the short story one you have going now. I’ve written for myself all along though and only in the last year or so have thought of publishing. I love the fact that we can all have critique and be published, no matter who wins. I have no allusions as to winning though, as you say, writing is very subjective so you never know. Not all subject matter is everyone’s ‘cup of tea’

Thanks for all the tips…. Though I’ve written my short story and put it on the site and can’t see any major changes I will make. Next time…….

The United Authors Association has one going this summer. Any genre. Prizes totaling $500. Visit http://www.TheUAA.ORG if you are interested.

Thanks Robert.

I’m doing the Becoming Writer contest largely because I got the email in my inbox. And because it includes 6 weeks access to the critique group forum. I’m more interested in trying out the community, but the contest will be fun too.

Very cool Ric. Have fun!

What’s interesting to me is that I have just signed up for entering this contest. I had mentioned to Joe that I’m so so scared and I am. But, I believe that it’s normal to be scared sometimes and admit this. As long as you confront the fear. At my age, I’ll always remember what Roosevelt said. The only fear that you have is fear itself. KEN Thanks again, JOE

Honestly, I get scared about this kind of thing all the time. The fear tells me it’s important.

The fear is the reason to write even more.Love the quote,it inspires me too!!

I’ve been meaning to do another round of submissions, so this was the kick in the pants I needed! I entered a flash fiction contest run by Tethered By Letters. They had an option for 3 submissions, so I did that.

It always makes me feel vulnerable to enter contests, or to post my writing at all. But being a member of Becoming Writer and having my own blog have helped.

Good luck to all entering the latest BW contest!

Hi..wonderful post,Joe…In fact,speaking for myself,i would not think about writing contests till now..for i have often felt that submitting my pieces of writing would halt the process of my writing projects…but every writer deserves a break–to overcome their writer’s block…For me,the deviation is these opportunities that come by my way.I have submitted my work for some anthologies and have enjoyed the process despite fruitless results.We just need to continue believing in our stories and keep writing!!!

Cheers, Jassie

OKay, Joe, I have emailed you a time or two and I have a story to go. I had the story ready a few hours after paying the fee for the contest.

However, I have been unable to upload to the forum or find a way to get feedback. I have not received an invite and the clock ticks. I request some assistance.

Practice, practice and even more practice. If you are not a wonderkid of some sort you can never expect to excel at anything without a lot of work. Use Help from outsources and from the friends. And start practicing!)

I’ve entered a few writing contests, and I value them the most because of what they teach you. The ones requiring a synopsis have taught me how to format a synopsis and recognize the core points of my plots, and contests with short word count limits taught me how to chop down my writing to what really matters. That’s more important to me than winning anything immediately. It definitely helps writers advance long-term, whether they win or not.

Ya I agree. It’s really annoying when a writing contests is so huge and there are so many people joining it, that I don’t even know if my story will get read. It would actually be nice to get feedback even if I didn’t win, ya know? But I heard from a friend about a writing contest that has limited entry. They only allow 100 people in the contest so that people have a better chance of winning and you get feedback, even if you don’t win. Do you think they’re legit?

:/ I can never find any fantasy novel writing contests most of them are everything else and almost always for novelettes, short stories or poems. XP Except for Wattpad, that’s over now to. (Lost.)

I lost the Wattpad, Wattys 2016 so after eating much chocolate I’m trying to figure out why. I didn’t make any of the mistakes listed here. So, now what? Does my writing just plain suck donkey flop? *Sigh*

I wouldn’t look at it like that. Losing definitely doesn’t mean you’re a bad writer. Instead, get to work on your next story (and your next contest), and use what you learned from the last to practice for the next one. It’s less about winning and losing and more about getting better as a writer.

(Try #2, fixing typos.)

Okay I will ^;^ What also made it hard what that they also to the number of reads, comments and votes into account so I guess that had a part in it too. They said that it wouldn’t decide if a book won or not, but I’m thinking that that stuff plays a bigger part than they are letting on.Ooh well, I joined to get help with my writing and get feedback, so it’s all good.

Yes, I want to grow and get better at this.

I’ll just wait for next years Wattys; when it comes to contests most just want short stories. I don’t know how to do those yet. Or even worse are a scam. ;-; No thanks, I don’t need that kind of a headache.

(Try #3 fixing typos, I’m not that great at typing comments for some reason.)

Okay, I will ^;^ What also made it hard was that they also take into account the number of reads, comments and votes a book has. Mine only had 14k reads when the ones that won have millions. X.X They said that you could still win even if you don’t have many reads and such, but I’m thinking that that stuff plays a bigger part than they are letting on. Oh well, I joined to get help with my writing and get feedback, so it’s all good.

And thanks for replying. ^^

Agree with everything you said here. And you’re right about twists. They must be set up properly, and not just done out of the blue for shock value. I’d also like to say that your advice here is good for all submissions, not just contests. Great post!

Could this be anymore blatant clickbait? Claims to be about advice for winning contests, instead lists obvious do not points then says “git gud go write”

Every time I open “Upcoming Writing Contests,” I get this message: “This site is not private. Someone may be trying to hack into …” I don’t get this message for the other 4 links, only for the list of contests. Is this happening to others?

The best advice I’ve ever had is to write what I know. I once tried to write a story pretending I lived in a town in America. I got it all wrong; descriptions of people, their clothing, dialogue, descriptions of the street, bars, diners. Everything. Then I was stuck. I won’t try writing about being in line at Starbucks. I’ve never been to Starbucks and don’t know a thing about it, except that they serve coffee. Anything that is fantasy is easier for me because I have a gift for creating fantasy, of places and happenings which no one has ever seen. I must strive to be convincing and make the story unputdownable. Joe, I’m at a stage where I don’t dream of being a winner. I want to participate, have somebody read my story and give feedback, and read stories members submit for the contest. Sorry that I’m not active on TWP as much as I’d like to be, but I have a time limit now due to health issues. Cheers everybody. Happy writing.

Not sure if I should ask this, but since I´m not an English native can I send a copy of my work to any contest? If so, one of my works are not done yet.

I am working on a story for a while for a contest this helped a lot but can you give me a list of what they look for?

this is the very first time,I’ve ever gotten the gallantry to actually press the dreaded submit button for a writing contest without the wrath of inhibition drown me in regret of what could have been ! honestly, i have never been more relieved, then i have today! thank you for the amazing pointers , they have been put into action, i hope!

and now, i shall wait heh

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• I’m a finalist! – Writing in the gaps - […] was different because I wrote it not long after I had read an article on The Write Practice called…
• This Contest Judge Reveals How to Win Writing Contests - […] write a brilliant story—but if you ignore the theme, skip part of it, or in any way disobey the…
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• Writing Tips

Life Lessons from Writing Competitions

Writing competitions don’t reflect sustainable writing habits, but they can teach great life lessons. So far, I’ve written a 55,000-word novel, participated in 10 writing competitions and challenges, and placed in several writing and editing competitions. I’m sure no talent scout or publisher will offer me an advance to write my memoir, but those experiences have taught me about community, time management, and perfectionism.

Here’s what I’ve learned—I hope it encourages you to sign up for a writing competition or find another way to push past your writing comfort zone. Read on for three life lessons and five traditional benefits of writing competitions.

Life Lessons Learned from Writing Competitions

Life lesson #1: community is powerful.

Becoming part of a community can inspire you to write and encourage you to continue. Working toward a common goal can be a strong bonding experience that builds friendships. Participating in an intense, yet non-competitive group activity builds connection with your writing community and encourages unselfish support for others. The community aspect of writing competitions makes people more likely to endure a challenge like National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo), when participants attempt to write 50,000 words in November.

In a worldwide novel-writing effort, such as NaNoWriMo, other participants encourage you to keep writing. Your only goals are persistence and completion, and your biggest obstacle is yourself. When you doubt yourself or your dedication wanes, that’s when you need encouragement from others. When your writing is going well, it’s easy to encourage others to work on their own novels. This mutual support builds and strengthens your writing community. I was lucky to have local friends participating in NaNoWriMo, so we could connect in person and talk through our struggles. This brought us closer together.

If you’re attempting to write a novel as part of NaNoWriMo, find a forum to join. The Office of Letters and Light, which runs NaNoWriMo, sets up forums by location so you can find a nearby writing group to create a community. Local forums make it easy for participants to meet at public libraries or bookstores and write together. That in-person connection is an excellent way to find the support and solidarity that will help you persevere

In-person writing competitions offer similar community benefits. Even if you’re competing against the other participants, it’s still invigorating to be around other people passionate about a certain style of writing. I’ve even found that everyone’s happy to talk about their projects before and after the 90-minute competition.

Life Lesson #2: Time Management is Crucial

In any writing contest, you have to watch the clock. When I was at journalism competitions, my time limit was 90 minutes. That was true whether I was editing a piece, writing an editorial, or captioning a page worth of pictures. That’s a short time to do a lot of work.

Comparatively, my time limit with NaNoWriMo was one month. It was also a short time to do a lot of work, especially with the added interruptions of school, extracurriculars, friends, and family.

The one-month period meant I ostensibly had 720 hours to write a 50,000-word manuscript. But that time was filled with interruptions in a way journalism competitions were not. I couldn’t drop everything to write for 720 hours and still expect my family and friends to love me when I returned to regular life.

Fifty thousand words over a month comes out to 1,667 words per day. But for most people, writing that much every day of November isn’t possible, especially if you celebrate Thanksgiving. You must plan a schedule and a pace that works with your life. I planned to write 2,000 words per day to give myself a couple days’ buffer around the holidays. I strongly believe that a realistic plan helped me generate my 50,000 words.

NaNoWriMo also requires maintaining a rigorous pace, which mostly meant I had to mute my desire to pore over a sentence for half an hour. To do that, I had to follow my next tip.

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Life Lesson #3: Don’t Aim for Perfection

The most liberating aspect of NaNoWriMo is that perfection is hopeless, so you stop thinking about it. Everyone is pushing themselves to see what they’re capable of and get a significant start on a project they’ll likely work on for years. No one can write a novel that’s publication-ready in a month—so don’t try to. Focus on completing a first draft, which is enough to keep anyone busy for a month.

Admittedly, my first draft was rough. I had days where I knew 95 percent of what I wrote would need rewriting before I’d show my book to anyone, and I learned not to be bothered by that. Writing that many words in a month requires you to stop trying to achieve perfection, turn off your inner critic, and just write.

Writing daily helped me connect deeply to my story and characters. I became so engrossed in the story that there were times it felt like the scenes and story arcs wrote themselves. Even if I didn’t want a character to say a certain line, I knew it was what he or she would say and what the story needed. It felt as though the characters spoke for themselves. I’ve only felt that way while writing during NaNoWriMo, and I think it’s because of the deep, daily writing time. It’s the most consumed by a story I’ve ever been.

Letting go of perfectionism was freeing and inspiring: it prompted me to write plot twists and characters I never expected. By rejecting perfection, I felt I could take those artistic risks.

Traditional Benefits of Joining a Writing Contest

Writing competitions can teach you a lot about yourself, but it would be disingenuous to overlook the writing improvement opportunities that come from participation. These contests can also be your opportunity to:

Benefit #1: Get Feedback On Your Writing

While most writing contests don’t offer critique for all entries, other competitions do. Some contests will give you feedback for a small fee; others will do it for free. Take critique wherever you can get it because it will help you improve your writing. If you do well, you may get even more feedback and earn attention for your work.

Benefit #2: Showcase Your Work to the Industry

Getting shortlisted or winning a writing competition may mean that publishers or agents see potential in your work. Many writing contests will have literary agents or independent publishers as judges, which can help you get noticed by influential people in the writing industry. If a judge loves your work, they might strike a deal with you, publish your work, or share some feedback. Your next contest could be your ticket to a publishing deal or another writing opportunity.

Benefit #3: Get Motivated

Joining a writing contest can also motivate you to keep writing, especially if you’ve been feeling stuck. A competition and a deadline might help you reconnect with your project or reinvigorate your editing. It can help you set goals and give you the drive you need to move forward—win or lose.

Benefit #4: Discover New Writing Styles

Want to write something different in a different genre or voice? Sign up for a writing competition! Signing up for a competition can help you build the courage to switch genres or learn a new writing style. Maximum word counts can reduce the burden of completing a large new work that may not be a great fit, while still giving you the courage to try it. With limits on how much you can write, quickly coming up with a horror story or an essay is possible.

Benefit #5: Use Past Entries as Starting Points

Let’s face it: Losing a competition sucks. But that doesn’t mean your work was wasted. Keep all your work in one place—you can always revisit to rewrite or refine it. Even if it wasn’t selected as a winner for one writing contest, it could be a great start for another project. Try approaching the old project from a different perspective, or try placing a different limitation on the project that might inspire you to try something new.

Don’t Ditch Your Work—Edit It

Once the competition is over, you might be tempted to throw your work away and never look at it again, but a first draft is a great opportunity to practice polishing and editing your writing. About 70% of writing is editing, but it’s hard to get to the editing stage. So don’t waste the opportunity once you’re there.

Participating in NaNoWriMo pushed me to focus on getting out the first draft and accept that I would revise heavily later. When writing a novel, forcing yourself to quickly produce a first draft gets you to the revising stage faster.

At the end of the month (or maybe after a month-long break from your story), you can return to your work to edit with fresh eyes. You can also try editing software like WordRake on your first draft to refine and tighten your writing. Then, you can devote more energy to improving plot and pacing.

Since we improve through practice, writing exercises like competitions can improve aspects of our writing, such as crafting dialogue or developing characters. However, the greatest value of writing contests is the way they challenge what we think we can do. Competitions show us we can write pieces in a short amount of time once we find community, motivate ourselves with goals and timeframes, and let go of perfection.

About the Author

Caroline Engle is WordRake’s Marketing Communications Specialist. She convinced WordRake to hire her as an intern after placing in editing competitions and writing a novel in a month. When she isn’t editing or writing copy, coordinating conference logistics, or helping improve WordRake’s functionality, she’s reading, going on ten-mile walks, or looking up flight prices. Connect with her on LinkedIn  here .

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• Creative Writing

Objectives and Outcomes

Creative writing program learning objectives, outcomes, and assessment measures.

• To produce graduates familiar with representative literary texts from a significant number of historical, geographical, and cultural contexts, with particular focus on the Modern and contemporary periods.
• To produce graduates able to apply their knowledge and understanding of critical, theoretical, and technical traditions to the production of original literary works.
• To produce graduates familiar with the contemporary literary publishing milieu.
• To produce graduates able to effectively communicate what it is they, as writers, do, and to effectively present literary works, their own as well as the works of others.
• Graduates will have the ability to apply critical and theoretical approaches to the reading and analysis of literary texts in multiple genres.
• Graduates will be able to identify, analyze, interpret and describe the critical ideas, values, and themes that appear in literary texts and to understand the ways these ideas, values, and themes inform and impact cultures and societies, both in the past and the present.
• Graduates will produce stories or poems or literary nonfiction pieces that are original yet engage in an effective and rewarding conversation with the traditions of literature.
• Graduates will be able to articulate an awareness of the relationship between their individual works and the tradition.
• Graduates will be able to judge whether a journal or press is an appropriate venue for their literary works.
• Graduates will be able to analyze and critique the quality of literary journals and presses, as well as the work of particular writers.
• Graduates will be able to produce cogent written and/or oral arguments to defend and explain the value of literature to a general population, to be, in other words, public ambassadors for the literary arts.
• Graduates will be able to present their own literary works—and the works of others—orally in a public forum with the ability to bring the written word to life for an audience.

Assessment Measures

• The required senior thesis, which is a book-length collection of the student’s creative work accompanied by a critical preface, is the best mechanism for assessing the success of our courses in achieving our objectives and outcomes. The project requires the ability to write creatively, of course, but it also assesses the students’ abilities to write and speak critically about their own creative work and the work of other writers. The project consists of five elements: the critical preface, the creative body of work, the scholarly bibliography, the oral defense, and a public reading.
• The success of our program can be assessed by how many graduates attend M.F.A. programs, where they publish their writing, and what role their writing skills play in the jobs they take.
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11 Themes & Topics for Story Writing Competitions

• October 16, 2023

Every writer dreams of winning a short story competition at some point. It is one of those sweet dreams that push you towards writing better and fills you with the essential motivation to keep doing the lonely task of writing well. 

But the real question is:  what does it take to be one of the winning few? Is it just the quality of writing or do other elements like the topic for the story competition have some weightage too? 

We think and so do countless editors that the topic for the story writing competition definitely has a lot of relevance. The quality of writing matters but the choice of topic can make or break the winning entry. 

{Check out this list of 40 Literary Magazines to Submit Short-stories, Non fiction and Poetry in India }

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In prose, you prefer…

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Why Focus on the Topic for a Story Writing Competition?

Here’s why: 

• If you have ever scoured Twitter, where the lit mag twitterati resides, then you will know that many times editors post about the kind of stories they are looking for. For example, recently an editor from the acclaimed lit mag Cimarron Review had asked for fiction about characters with irrational fears where the story explores how they come to have it and what they did with it. Editors are human, and sometimes they have an affinity towards certain topics more than others. Just like we read certain genres at certain times and stages of life.
• All Story Writing Competitions have judges. And judges have their own choices, likes, desires and authors they admire. Knowing more about the judges and what kind of writing they like, and how they themselves write helps in knowing what kind of topics they would enjoy reading. 

{Check out this list of 22 Literary Magazines in Hindi – Publish Poetry, Short Stories, and Non-fiction Online }

12 Themes or Topics for Story Writing Competition

We have divided our list into three areas –

• The Classics: which are evergreen topics of comparatively sombre theme. These topics always work for story-writing competitions because they deal directly with the human condition.
• The Unusual: These are topics that you wouldn’t think could win these prizes, topics far from the spectrum of emotionality that we operate in, they are weird and at times can make us uncomfortable.
• The In-Between: These are topics that probably aren’t very loaded in themselves, they are neither too familiar nor too weird. They are likely to not get a particular response of like and dislike from your editor. In fact, these are topics that can shine just through the power of your writing. 

{You can submit your short stories to these 15 Contests and Awards for Short stories in India }

The Classics

• Issues or Hardships in Marriage or Love

A topic for having a shot at a story writing competition that can be written with great variance and depth is the topic of an affair, love, relationship or marriage falling apart. One does not need to reach into the prize winners of yesteryears to impose the point that marriage or relationship is a great topic for a story writing competition because there is a range of short stories written by the masters of the short story – from Katherine Mansfield’s Bliss to John Steinbeck’s The Chrysanthemums.

• Loss of Home/Identity in a New Land

A lot of literature in the past few decades has found its strength in writing about the loss of home. Probably, we as a generation are facing it so intensely for the first time in this unique way when globalisation, fast travel and many border crisis have reached their peak. 

And so when we see a winning story such as ‘A Simple Animal’ by Pallavi Wagharkhar published in Iowa Review, we are not in a bit of shock. It captures many things such as modern dating, and grief but at heart talks of identity and home. Home in places, in people, in memory is a powerful thing. And a great idea as a topic for a story writing competition.

• Familial Relationships

If you are good at finding patterns then reading the previous two topics for story writing competitions, you would have noticed that all these story topics relate to either intimate relationships or intimate spaces. So we thought this list is not complete without the larger umbrella of familial relationships as a good topic. Family, close or far, even friends for family is a powerful theme. Universal and conflict-prone, as readers we are always looking to understand our lives better through these stories and find the courage to do the hard work that familial relationships require. You could write about your aunt, your father’s estranged brother who you grew closer to as you aged, or the little five-year-old in your house and the searing questions they can ask. 

The story that won The Paris Review’s 2021 Plimpton Prize for emerging writers took a similar path, even more so when it named itself ‘ Brothers and Sisters’. It was written by Chetna Maroo who is a British Indian author and currently her novel Western Lane is in line for the 2023 Booker. 

Grief is powerful and the stories written from that place usually take the reader with them. It could be a story about the loss of a pet and how that takes over us so entirely, and no one tells us that losing a pet could be so hard. Grief does not depend on enormity, there are smaller griefs, daily griefs. It is a vast subject that does not even have to be a direct theme in itself or a direct topic for the story writing competition that you’re applying to. It can be used as a sub-theme to a larger story that you are writing. There are far too many good stories here. 

Check out this story by Rowan Beaird called Perennial that won the Ploughshares Emerging Writers Content in 2017-18. 

• Motherhood/Child Loss/Infertility

Some of the most visceral stories ever written, stories that gut us and pierce our hearts and stay there for a good while are written on the topic of motherhood, on loss relating to it, or the relationship between mothers and their children. All of us have mothers and it might be safe to say that we have complex relationships with them which is why it is so universal. Having this as the topic for a story-writing competition and doing it the required justice will definitely enhance your chances of getting shortlisted.

Here is this winning story by Casey Gentry Quinn that won the second prize in the Masters’ Review 2022-23 Winter Short Story Award which was judged by Morgan Talty, author of the short story collection Night of the Living Rez. The story is about infertility and how that can affect couples but the setting is magnificent and otherworldly under full moons and whatnot. So different the setting is that it takes us to our next segment – The most Unusual topics for story writing competitions.

{Here’s How will beta reading improve your story? }

The Unusual

• Commodification/Famous People/Fame 

The winner of the Donald Barthelme Award for short fiction last year was a story that had us in stitches – of all sorts. It was funny surely, it was a beautiful cocktail of soothsaying and apocalyptical fiction concocted with a not-so-experimental form. This story was titled Taylor Swift and it was a searing commentary on what the world has done to her, and what the world does to its idols in general. 

This story is so unusual that the judge Steve Almond himself said that he tried to resist prizing this entry with all his might. And so that’s the thing, you can write any story well if you know what you are doing and no idea is a bad idea when it comes to choosing a topic for a story writing competition.

• A Thing or Object – Carmen Maria Egg

When choosing a topic for a story writing competition, sometimes you don’t have to look deeply within yourself, you don’t even have to look far, you can probably just open your fridge and look at the top shelf in the door area. You might find an egg there, and then you might think of writing a good, really good story around it. Perhaps that’s what the PEN and Lambda Literary award-winning author Carmen Maria Machado did when she wrote this story . 

She wrote 15 observations around an egg and we think that just goes to show the range of emotions and ideas that everyday objects or things generate within us. In the same way, you would do good with reading The Mark On The Wall , where Virginia Woolf, one of the greatest writers of our times wonders about everything by looking at the mark on the wall. The story isn’t about that thing or object but through that thing or object. 

• A Bizarre Setting – rainmaking

In the shop of unusual topics for story writing competitions, you should definitely check out the item that is creating a mesmerizing and bizarre setting. A bizarre setting with similarly bizarre characters and a sense of the unknown are great themes for story-writing competitions. Judges are usually receptive when writers can deliver an entirely new sense of place. 

I think a story that greatly does this is Rainmaking by Lindsay Drager which was published by the acclaimed litmag Conjunctions for its 80th issue. 

{Brush up your knowledge of 17 Types of Creative Writing }

The In-Between

• A Budding Friendship

A budding friendship is a sweet, tender theme that when done with skill allows the reader to experience and reminiscence the warmth of friendship. People get busy with their families or work and life goes on, and somehow friendships become a thing of the past. So it is definitely ranking high in our list of topics for story writing competitions compared to other things.

• Coming-of-Age

Everyone is asking: Is Coming-of-Age done as a genre? Is it? Yet we see countless stories and novels where its characters are coming of age. So we don’t think it is done, because it too, is an evergreen topic. 

The reason that this topic wields the power it does is because it captures the times the character is growing up in. For years and years, readers have read coming-of-age fiction because of its ability to tell us what is the nature of certain youth of our times. It captures the younger values, ideas and sensibilities of a place or time.

When writing for a competition, it is important to consider everything and topics are no less important. But keep in mind that the themes mentioned above are simply suggestions and the central idea is to find something that truly matters to you because that is what brings true depth to a work.  The thing that really makes any topic and any idea come to life in a brilliant manner is the craft or skill of the writer. All the above-mentioned stories have one thing in common – they are extremely chiselled and every word used is intentional. Craft takes time and work. We have HWR have some craft-focused courses like Kritika Pandey’s Short Story Writing Workshop , the Creative Writing Course or the Writing Masterclass with Jerry Pinto .

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Very informative and good guideline for writers beginning to write or for those that have been writing and need to chisel their art and style .

Thank You Trevor

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How to Organize a Writing Competition in Your School

In celebration of the upcoming World Book Day on April 23, 2015, we’ve compiled some ideas and resources for educators, parents and young readers. Below is a suggested activity. Find other ideas here.

First, define the scope of the competition. For example, is it open to a particular grade level, a particular class or is it open to all students in the school? What is the minimum or maximum length of a submission (e.g. the word count)?

Define the writing theme. Do you give them a topic or do they the freedom to choose their own direction? Here are some ideas for particular topics:

• Why is World Book Day important (which could involve some research)?
• Could we live without books?
• A creative book review
• A short story told in the first person
• A fantasy story

Define the judging criteria and select a jury. Some schools might invite the students involved in the school book club to serve on the jury. In other cases, having teachers and staff adjudicate the submissions might be more appropriate.

Define the prize or award associated with the competition. Sometimes public acknowledgement is sufficient. Some stories could be published in the school newsletter or the community newsletter. A book prize might also be appropriate. Wordfest might be able to help out by providing books to award.*

Optional: one approach might be to contact local businesses to sponsor your competition and donate giveaways.

Clearly define the submission process. If it must be typed or hand written, who collects the submissions and how are they collected (e.g. by email or drop box location in the school)?

Finally, announce the competition, the key dates, the submission criteria, any prizes and the general rules of the competition. The jury then selects a winner, makes the announcement and celebrates.

Optional: a second-round of the competition could challenge students to adapt the winning story from the first round for younger grades, by hosting a an illustration competition.

Happy writing!

One age-appropriate book from Wordfest can be donated to the first 10 schools who request it. email [email protected] for more information.

Related Posts

• Wordfest is gearing up for World Book Day
• How to Organize a Book in a Can Project
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Learning Goals & Outcomes

Minor in Creative Writing

As a student of creative writing , you will create original works of literature, culminating in a significant, extended body of poetry, fiction, and/or creative nonfiction that manifests your artistic potential. 

These literary works will demonstrate the following aspects of your craft :

your own voice and style as a writer, which you have discovered and developed

your use of the central subject matter that comes out of your own individual life experience and from your imagination

your understanding of the creative process as a forum for critical as well as intuitive thinking, as well as problem-solving

your awareness of the literary, cultural, and historical contexts within which you write, including the influence of past and present literary forms, structures, styles, and traditions on your artistic choices

(for poets) : your ability to shape a poem in terms of lineation, stanza structure, rhythm, and sound; and to effectively work within the parameters of various poetic forms

(for fiction writers) : your ability to invent and organize plot; develop character; modulate tone; make use of evocative imagery; and shape and control the formal in both modular and linear narratives

(for creative nonfiction writers) : your ability to establish a distinctive voice and a clear sense of purpose; provide insightful reflection on the chosen subject matter; render vivid scenes complete with dialogue; distinguish between various types of nonfiction including memoir, personal essay, and literary journalism; and determine when and where to use research, as well as appropriate sources and research methods

Updated: February 2018

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Objectives Of Creative Writing For Students

Taking classes to write fiction, poetry and creative non-fiction is a great way to excite your writing spirit and discover your hidden talent. Besides, discovering a ‘new you’, creative writing units also have numerous other objectives and potential outcomes. If the courses work right for you, it enables you to enhance your knowledge of reading and writing. Before enrolling in a creative writing class, you may, however, want to know what benefits you will get by completing such classes. So, here we list the objectives of creative writing for students. But one thing is guaranteed that the learning will stay with you for rest of your life.

1. General Objective

Here are the general objectives and expected outcomes of creative writing classes.

(i) Objective 1: You will have the ability to apply critical and theoretical approaches to the reading and analysis of literary texts in multiple genres.

(ii) Objective 2: You will understand how to identify, analyze, interpret and describe critical ideas, themes, values that consist of literary texts and perceive the ways to evaluate how ideas, themes and values create an impact on societies, both in the past and present.

(iii) Objective 3: You will become capable of producing poems or literary non-fictional pieces that are original and engaging.

(iv) Objective 4: You will be able to articulate an awareness of the relationship between the individual works and conventional literary work.

(v) Objective 5: You will become capable of passing judgment whether a journal or a press is better venue for publishing literary work.

(vi) Objective 6: By critical reading and analysis, you become someway an expert to analyze and critique the quality of literary journals as well as the work of particular writers.

Now that you know the general outcomes, let us go into more specialized objectives based on various parameters of creative writing.

2. Literary Techniques

Literary techniques are defined by three main genre’s foundational styles that equip students to write their own creative work. Here are the objectives of the three most primitive genre of writing —

‘Prose is architecture, not interior decoration’ – Ernest Hemingway

Writing must have building blocks, structured against characters, plot and setting. This rule becomes more pronounced when it comes to fiction writing. This type of writing always revolves around imagination, passion and hard work. A new world created by authors that certainly influence the readers. That’s what fiction writing is all about.

(i) Objective 1: Identify the structural elements of fiction

(ii) Objective 2: You might emphasis on characterization, setting and plot development

(iii) Objective 3: You become able to analyze how people act and react, their facial expression and their body language

(iv) Objective 4: As fiction helps you to disconnect with your everyday life, it lifts you from the mundane and walks you on the path that you have never experienced before

(v) Objective 5: Through fiction, we experience emotions and new adventures that connect us with the rest of the world. Whether historical or contemporary fiction, patterns do emerge: sorrow or joy, hopelessness or hope, life or death etc.

‘Poetry is the spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings, it takes its origin from emotions recollected’ – William Wordsworth

Writing poetry involves undertaking a new way of life that takes a form of strong words, powerful feelings and vivid imagination.

(i) Objective 1: Make you understand the concepts and basic terms of poetry writing

(ii) Objective 2: It teaches you the concept of rhythm, rhyme and alliteration

(iii) Objective 3: It enables you to perceive the fugitive language like simile, metaphor and personification

(iv) Objective 4: Involves different patterns of poetry

(v) Objective 5: Understand and appreciate poetry as a literary art form.

3. Creative Non-fiction

‘Writing non-fiction is like cracking a safe. It seems impossible at the beginning, but once you are in, you are in’ – Rich Cohen

Writing non-fiction may seem difficult, but it has an array of genres to cover. The writer of non-fiction has a huge responsibility to present the truth or accuracy of the events, people and/or information presented.

(i) Objective 1: Creative non-fiction allows reflecting your personal experience and how to conduct good research, collect data and convey a sense authority in your work while creating your own literary nonfiction

(ii) Objective 2: You learn to recall and understand the language and organizational features of all main non-fiction text types

(iii) Objective 3: You perceive how to go about reading a non-fiction literary piece

(iv) Objective 4: You can choose different types of imageries and transform them into structured non-fiction prose

(v) Objective 5: You learn to write non-fiction effectively for a particular purpose and audience, combining organizational features as appropriate.

3. Critical Reading

Being able to analyze reads is the key understanding of how creative writing works. When you join creative writing classes, it typically includes intensive reading and discussion of poems and other literary works that enables you to see the technique in action.

(i) Objective 1: According to Ohio University of English Department, as a critical reader, you understand the styles and traditions of different genres and gain inspiration from different authors. For example, let say, you might read Flannery O’Connor’s famous short story, ‘A Good Man is Hard to Find’ and discuss with your class how O’Connor developed her characters. Later, you can use her work as an inspiration for your writing

(ii) Objective 2: Many believed that their vocabulary could be improved

(iii) Objective 3: You gain the ability to comprehend and extract appropriate meaning and relevance of what is being read

(iv) Objective 4: A critical reader who is constantly looking for new ideas and inspiration welcomes written piece with an open mind, but at the same time questions the content and of the text by testing against its knowledge and experience

(v) Objective 5: You become competent to discover the hidden message in the text and to ascertain how the ideas in the text accords with writer's opinion, values and objectives.

4. Revision

Many students make mistakes by assuming that good writing is effortless and natural. In reality, all writing requires revision, sometimes multiple drafts and total rewrites of a single piece.

(i) Objective 1: You leave the class knowing the technique of brainstorming, composing a draft and determining the piece’s revision

(ii) Objective 2: Since creative classes sometimes involve giving peer feedback through a writing workshop, students also learn how to give constructive reviews and feedback to improve a piece

(iii) Objective 3: You become able to decide how a writing piece should be revised towards improvement.

5. The Philosophy of Creativity

Ultimately, when you finish the creative writing class, you should be able to explain their creative values and strengthen your future plans.

(i) Objective 1: When you get in touch with different and numerous writers, you are able to identify authors whose work left an impact on you

(ii) Objective 2: You will understand what genre attracts you the most and you enjoy writing in

(iii) Objective 3: In the course, you will be comfortable to share how you are going to pursue your writing after class’s conclusion. For example, you might go onto graduate creative writing program, others may want to continue writing on their own

(iv) Objective 4: The students should leave the class with an appreciation for creative writing and better understanding of the unique voice of the different authors.

The list does not end here. The more you get involved in the course, the more outcomes come in your way. The above-mentioned are common learning objectives of creative writing and its different sections. But it works differently on distinct natured personalities. And to experience that, you need to join a creative writing class.

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"Start writing, no matter what. The water does not flow until the faucet is turned on." - Louis L'Amour

"don’t tell me the moon is shining; show me the glint of light on broken glass." - anton chekhov, the english council  pte. ltd. (tec)  is proud to present its inaugural nationwide creative writing competition extended to all singaporean & pr students in singapore between the ages of 10 and 19 years old in 2020..

HOW TO PARTICIPATE

Pick ONE of the following five essay topics and write an original story between 500 and 800 words in length:

• The Red Box
• Start and end  your original story with the following sentence: ‘I never liked the colour purple.’
• Write an original story based on: You are in the middle of a secluded desert. You see a mirror in the distance and as you gravitate towards it, you reach out and touch it.
• Schadenfreude

Submit your original story to [email protected] by 5th December 2020  Saturday, 19th December 2020, 6.00pm . 

1st Prize (Overall Winner): Apple iPad

2nd Place Winner (Age Group – 10 to 14 Years Old): $400 TEC Gift Card

2nd Place Winner (Age Group – 15 to 19 Years Old): $400 TEC Gift Card

Plus 27 Consolation Prizes

Submission Date:

5th December 19th December 2020, 6.00pm

Notification of Shortlisted Candidates by:

12th December 2020 9th – 12th January 2021

Workshop Date & Time:

Saturday, 19th December  

Saturday, 16th January 2021 

2.00pm to 6.00pm

Broadcast of Top 3 Winners:

December 2020 January 2021

*Dates and terms have been amended due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Submissions for this event are closed. A big ‘thank you’ to all contestants for their participation and support.

We look forward to reading each and every creative masterpiece. Stay tuned by liking or following us on our Facebook Page .

Write on & let the magic happen!

COMPETITION CRITERIA

This competition is strictly open to all Singaporean and PR students only, who are aged between 10 and 19 years old in 2020. Each contestant may submit only ONE entry. ALL entries MUST be original and written by the contestant in English. The entries must not have been published anywhere else at the time of submission.

All participants MUST Like and Share any one of The English Council’s (TEC) Nationwide Creative Writing Competition 2020 posts on TEC’s Facebook Page (See link: https://www.facebook.com/theenglishcouncil/ ) on their Facebook Wall, Instagram or any social media platform in the form of a post. The audience setting of the latter post on the contestant’s social media profile MUST be set to public (where applicable) and remain actively published until the closing date of this competition. All submissions MUST include a screen grab(s) of the latter, along with TEC’s Entry Form (See below).

Entries that do not meet the minimum word count of 500 words or those that exceed the word count of 800 words will be immediately disqualified. Personal details of the contestant written on the first page will not contribute to the final word count.  

The submission deadline is 19th December 2020 at 6.00pm . Late submissions will not be entertained.

This is a FREE event and there is no participation fee of any kind required.

Entries must be submitted via email to [email protected] and must use TEC’s Word Document template (CLICK HERE) . The first page of this Word Document MUST be completed and endorsed with the contestant’s signature before submission. The contestant’s essay should start only from page two of the Word Document and should be typed in Arial font-size 12, double-spaced and in black only. Before submission, the Word Document needs to be renamed by changing ‘FULL NAME’ to the contestant’s full name.

SELECTION OF WINNERS

30 shortlisted contestants will be selected by the faculty of The English Council Pte. Ltd. and they will be notified by January 2021. The 30 selected contestants will be invited to attend a compulsory and complimentary Creative Writing Clinic, where they will undergo a second level of selection process during which they will be further assessed. This will be conducted on Saturday, 16th January 2021 from 2.00pm to 6.00pm . (Shortlisted contestants will be notified of the venue via text message or email closer to the date). Of the 30 shortlisted contestants, 3 of them will be announced as the top winners based on their performance during the Creative Writing Clinic. The remaining 27 contestants will be awarded with a consolation prize. The results of the top 3 winners of The English Council’s Nationwide Creative Writing Competition 2020 will be published on The English Council’s website or social media page by January 2021. 

SAFETY & PRECAUTIONS

In view of the global spread of COVID-19, every effort will be taken during the Creative Writing Clinic to ensure the safety of all our participants through prior mandatory travel declarations of all parties directly involved in the event and temperature checks of all parties on the actual day before the commencement of the event.

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS

By submitting the essay to the competition, the contestant grants The English Council Pte. Ltd. and its affiliates the non-exclusive, perpetual, irrevocable, world-wide, royalty-free license (with the right to sub-license) to keep and reproduce, edit, display, transmit, modify, publish and otherwise make use of the submitted entries in any and all media for any purpose consistent with the corporate objectives of The English Council Pte. Ltd., including educational, archival and research purposes, and for publicising The English Council Pte. Ltd. or any of its programmes, including derivative works for such purposes. Where practical, the essay will be attributed to the student who submitted it.

In addition, by submitting the essay or any other content to the Creative Writing Competition, the contestant declares that the submitted materials do not infringe on any copyright or other rights of any third party, and that the contestant has the right to grant any and all rights and licenses to The English Council Pte. Ltd. 

The English Council Pte. Ltd. reserves the right to change any of the above terms and conditions at any time without prior notice.

For further queries, please contact us at [email protected]

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Creative story writing competition.

As part of the International Book week (April 12- 18), our School library Dept is going to conduct a Creative Story Writing competition on 15 th  and 16 th April 2015 at library. This Competition is only for the Grade 6 and 7 students. Four students from each class can participate the program. Students those selected to participate, register their name through your class teacher. We will provide you the characters, places and things on the spot just before the program starts. More details available on the library notice board. All participants should have Pen with them and we will provide you the Answer sheets. Winner’s story will be published on the school magazine and their names will  be displayed  on the library and school notice board. Class Teachers are requested to encourage the children to participate with a sense of fairness and enjoyment and select four students from each class on the basis of their reading habit and writing skill. Competition will take place on 15 th April for Grade 6 th and 16 th April for Grade 7 at the Library on 9.00 am to 10.15 am.

Objective of the Competition: To improve the student’s Creative Writing Skill.

This competition is intended to help the students start to form their ideas for potential stories. The activity provides the students with a blank page to freely develop story ideas through text and illustration. This competition will help the students to develop their creative writing skills and boost confidence each time they pick up a pen. This will be a best opportunity for the students to write and make Ideas for their own story. That is the main objective of this programme .

All stories start with an idea of the characters, places or events that will be in the story. We will provide you the characters, places and things on the spot. You can write any idea s you have by using these and be creative to how it might become a story .This is intended to help the students expand upon their story ideas based on the given characters and to develop a strong story.

Story Structure :  All stories have a beginning, middle and an end. Write down or draw how you want the story to start, what happens during the story, and how will it end.  Creative thinking and Imagination are the tools here where the best story begins. Be creative, be bold and have fun.

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• July 23, 2024

Fifth grader wins creative writing contest celebrating immigrants

Ten-year-old Angela Du entered the American Immigration Council’s “Celebrate America” creative writing contest, and shares her words that won over the judges.

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 English Handwriting Competition

An Intra Class English Handwriting Competition for class II was organized at St. Joseph’s Sr. Sec. School. The objective of this competition was to encourage students to improve their calligraphy skills. The competition was organized in the respective classrooms. Handwriting is an essential skill for students. It is an incredibly important exercise for students to encourage them to develop fine motor skills and confidence. It activates the brain and contributes to reading fluency. It also encourages and recognizes the good handwriting skills. It provides students with an opportunity to display their competency of legible writing. The response of the students was very encouraging. Majority of students had put in their best foot forward to enhance their writing skills.

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• Channeling Camaraderie at Chokhi Dhani : Annual Luncheon for St. Joseph’s Educators July 6, 2024
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Ten challenges that invite teenagers to engage, experiment, reflect and create — via writing, photography, audio, video and more.

By The Learning Network

Our annual Contest Calendar is probably the single most powerful thing we publish all year. Teachers tell us they plan their classes around our challenges, and tens of thousands of teenagers around the globe participate by creating narratives, reviews, videos, opinion pieces, podcasts, illustrations, photo essays and more.

For us, these contests are an honor and a joy to host. We love learning from young people — about what moves them and makes them mad, what intrigues and confuses and delights and defines them.

This year, we are bringing back some recent and longtime favorites, as well as introducing a few new challenges.

To begin, we have two options this fall in response to the U.S. election, though students around the globe are welcome. In September, we open with a series of special forums that invite teenagers to have thoughtful conversations about their civic and political identities, values and beliefs. Then, if they choose, they can work alone or with others to make something in response — whether in writing, video, audio or visual art. (Students can participate in one or both challenges, and we have a related invitation for educators .)

In the spring, we’re offering “My List,” a twist on our long-running review contest. This time, students can choose any collection of three to five works of art or culture to group in some way and then tell us why we should — or shouldn’t — check them out.

We’ll be posting the full rules and guidelines for each contest here when it opens. but for now you can look at the related resources we’ve provided, as well as last year’s rules, which will largely remain the same for our returning contests.

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