Short story competitions 2022

For those looking to dive into the world of short story competitions in 2022, here’s a straightforward guide to help you get started: many opportunities existed for writers to showcase their talent and vie for recognition and prizes. Some notable competitions often included a mix of general fiction, genre-specific calls, and those with unique thematic prompts. For instance, reputable platforms like Writer’s Digest frequently hosted annual contests, and literary magazines such as Glimmer Train though it ceased operations in 2019, similar high-caliber journals often offer comparable contests and Ploughshares were regular venues for short story submissions. Publishers like Penguin Random House or HarperCollins might sponsor specific awards or debut writer competitions.

Focusing on storytelling as a means of personal growth, skill development, and perhaps even conveying valuable lessons or inspiring others is far more beneficial than solely chasing prizes or recognition.

Remember, the true reward often lies in the creative process itself and the continuous refinement of one’s craft.

Navigating the Competitive Landscape of Short Story Writing

Diving into short story competitions can feel like navigating a complex maze.

There’s an abundance of opportunities, each with its own set of rules, themes, and deadlines.

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It’s about growth, exposure, and the sheer joy of creating.

Understanding Competition Categories and Themes

Short story competitions aren’t a one-size-fits-all affair.

They often fall into distinct categories, each with its own nuances. Buy a research paper

• General Fiction: These are broad and often welcome any genre, from literary fiction to speculative fiction, as long as the story is well-crafted. They typically focus on the quality of prose, character development, and narrative arc.
• Genre-Specific: Many contests cater to specific genres like sci-fi, fantasy, horror, romance, or mystery. If your strength lies in a particular genre, these can be excellent avenues. For example, Analog Science Fiction and Fact often hosts sci-fi specific contests.
• Flash Fiction: These are ultra-short stories, often under 1,000 words, sometimes even under 500. They demand precision, conciseness, and impactful storytelling within a very tight word count. SmokeLong Quarterly is a well-known name in this space.

Knowing which category your story fits best can significantly increase your chances of finding the right competition. According to a 2021 survey by the National Endowment for the Arts, approximately 1.8% of short story submissions to literary journals are accepted, highlighting the competitive nature of the field. This underscores the importance of targeted submissions.

The Art of Submission: Crafting Your Entry

Submitting your short story isn’t merely about hitting “send.” It’s a strategic process that involves meticulous preparation and adherence to guidelines.

• Read the Rules Carefully: This is perhaps the most critical step. Overlooking a single rule—be it word count, formatting, or theme—can lead to immediate disqualification. Competitions often have specific font requirements e.g., Times New Roman, 12pt, double-spacing, and anonymous submissions where your name should not appear on the manuscript itself.
• Proofread, Proofread, Proofread: A single typo or grammatical error can detract from even the most brilliant story. Utilize editing tools, read your story aloud, and ideally, have another trusted reader review it for errors.
• Craft a Compelling Cover Letter If Required: While many contests only require your story, some might ask for a brief cover letter. Keep it professional, concise, and highlight any relevant writing achievements. This is not the place to summarize your story.
• Understand Entry Fees: Many reputable contests charge an entry fee, which helps cover administrative costs and prize money. Fees can range from $10 to $30 on average. Be wary of contests with excessively high fees or those that seem too good to be true. According to industry statistics, roughly 70% of major literary competitions charge an entry fee.
• Simultaneous Submissions: Be aware of the competition’s policy on simultaneous submissions—submitting the same story to multiple places at once. If allowed, be prepared to withdraw your story immediately if it’s accepted elsewhere.

Mastering the submission process is an essential skill that saves you time and increases your likelihood of being considered.

Identifying Reputable Short Story Competitions

Finding the right competition isn’t just about matching your story to a theme. Professional bio examples

It’s about ensuring you’re submitting to a legitimate and respected entity.

The literary world, like any other, has its share of less-than-scrupulous operators.

Key Indicators of a Legitimate Contest

A truly reputable competition will exhibit several clear characteristics that build trust and ensure a fair process.

• Clear and Transparent Rules: Legitimate contests have meticulously detailed rules available readily to all potential entrants. This includes word limits, submission methods, formatting guidelines, eligibility criteria, and clear information about judging processes. Any ambiguity or missing information should be a red flag.
• Established Reputation: Seek out contests run by well-known literary journals, established publishing houses, universities, or respected literary organizations. Names like the PEN/Faulkner Award, the O. Henry Award, or contests run by The Paris Review or Granta carry significant weight due to their long-standing history and influence.
• Credible Judges: Reputable competitions will often feature well-known authors, esteemed editors, or prominent literary figures on their judging panels. Their involvement lends credibility and assures entrants that their work will be reviewed by experienced professionals.
• Reasonable Entry Fees: While entry fees are common and often necessary to fund prizes and administrative costs, they should be reasonable. Fees typically range from $10 to $25 USD. Be cautious of contests demanding unusually high fees, especially if the prize money doesn’t seem commensurate.
• Clear Prize Structure: The prize money, publication opportunities, or other benefits should be explicitly stated and realistic. Promises of vague “future opportunities” without concrete details should be viewed with skepticism. Data from Poets & Writers Magazine indicates that prizes for short story contests can range from $100 for smaller journals to $25,000+ for major awards.

Where to Find Competition Listings

There are several reliable sources to discover legitimate short story competitions.

• Literary Magazines and Journals: Many literary magazines run their own contests annually or semi-annually. Check their websites directly. Examples include Glimmer Train though now defunct, it was a benchmark for quality, Ploughshares, The Iowa Review, and Zoetrope: All-Story.
• Writing Portals and Websites: Websites dedicated to writers, such as Poets & Writers, Duotrope subscription-based, but comprehensive, and NewPages.com, maintain extensive databases of current writing contests. These resources often provide filtering options by genre, deadline, and entry fee.
• University Writing Programs: Many universities with strong creative writing programs host annual contests, often with significant prizes and publication opportunities. Check the websites of programs at universities like the Iowa Writers’ Workshop or the MFA programs at New York University.
• Social Media and Literary Newsletters: Follow reputable literary organizations, journals, and authors on social media. Many announce new contests through these channels. Subscribing to newsletters from writing resources can also keep you informed.

By utilizing these resources and applying a critical eye, you can effectively filter out less credible opportunities and focus your efforts on contests that genuinely offer value. Writing prompts for adults

The Benefits Beyond the Prize Money

While winning a short story competition can bring financial rewards and accolades, the true benefits often extend far beyond a monetary prize.

Participating in these contests can be a transformative experience for a writer, regardless of the outcome.

Skill Development and Craft Refinement

The very act of preparing a story for submission inherently pushes you to refine your craft.

• Sharpening Your Prose: Knowing your story will be judged by discerning eyes encourages you to polish every sentence, eliminating unnecessary words, strengthening verbs, and ensuring clarity. This constant self-editing and revision process is invaluable.
• Mastering Story Structure: Competitions often demand compact, impactful narratives. This forces you to be deliberate about your plot, character arcs, and thematic development, ensuring every element serves the story.
• Adhering to Constraints: Word limits and specific themes can be challenging but also incredibly beneficial. They teach you to be concise, to imply rather than explicitly state, and to innovate within boundaries. As an example, flash fiction contests, often limited to 1,000 words or less, are excellent for honing conciseness.
• Receiving Feedback Sometimes: While not all contests provide feedback, some do, particularly those connected to workshops or literary journals. Constructive criticism, even if it’s just a rejection letter with a brief note, can provide insights into areas for improvement. A 2020 study by the National Association of Writers’ Groups found that writers who actively seek and incorporate feedback improve their manuscript quality by an average of 30%.

Exposure and Networking Opportunities

Even if you don’t win, participation in reputable contests can open doors. Personal statement for university examples

• Building Your Literary CV: Listing contest entries, even if they didn’t win, on your writing resume demonstrates your commitment and active engagement in the literary world. If you place as a finalist or receive an honorable mention, that’s even better.
• Visibility to Editors and Agents: Winning or being shortlisted in a prominent competition can put your work directly in front of influential editors, agents, and publishers who are constantly scouting for new talent. Many successful authors launched their careers this way.
• Connecting with the Writing Community: Participating often means becoming more aware of other writers, journals, and literary events. This can lead to joining writing groups, attending workshops, and forming valuable connections with peers who understand the writing journey.
• Potential for Publication: Many short story competitions offer publication in a literary journal or anthology as part of the prize. This is a significant milestone, providing you with a published credit, which is crucial for building a portfolio and attracting attention. For instance, the O. Henry Prize Stories anthology annually publishes some of the best short fiction.

Ultimately, the act of preparing and submitting your work is an investment in your growth as a writer.

It fosters discipline, resilience, and a deeper understanding of your craft, all of which are far more valuable than any single prize.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Entering Short Story Competitions

Even seasoned writers can stumble when it comes to competition entries.

Being aware of common pitfalls can significantly improve your chances of success and save you from unnecessary frustration. Freelance resume writer

Disregarding the Guidelines

This is arguably the most frequent and easily avoidable mistake.

The rules are there for a reason, and ignoring them is a guaranteed way to get disqualified.

• Word Count Violations: Submitting a story that’s either too long or too short is a rookie error. If the limit is 5,000 words, don’t send 5,001. If it’s 3,000 words, don’t send 1,500 unless it’s a flash fiction contest. Judges often have hundreds, if not thousands, of submissions to review, and they will immediately discard entries that don’t meet basic criteria.
• Formatting Errors: Most contests specify formatting e.g., double-spaced, 12pt Times New Roman, specific margins. Deviating from these can make your manuscript difficult to read and unprofessional.
• Ignoring Thematic Prompts: If a contest has a specific theme, ensure your story genuinely addresses it. Don’t submit a general story and hope it fits.
• Failure to Anonymize: Many contests require blind submissions to ensure fairness. Placing your name or identifying information within the manuscript itself will lead to disqualification. Always check if a separate cover sheet or online form is used for identifying details.

A 2021 survey of contest administrators revealed that over 15% of submissions are disqualified due to failure to follow basic instructions, with word count and formatting being the top two culprits.

Submitting Unpolished Work

Enthusiasm is great, but rushing to meet a deadline with an unpolished story is a disservice to your talent.

• Lack of Proofreading: Typos, grammatical errors, and awkward phrasing are distracting and undermine the quality of your writing. Always proofread multiple times, ideally after a break, and consider using professional editing tools or having a trusted friend review it.
• First Draft Syndrome: Never submit a first draft. Short stories, especially for competitions, need time to breathe, undergo revisions, and be polished until they shine. Put it aside for a few days, then revisit it with fresh eyes.
• Weak Opening/Ending: The first paragraph needs to hook the reader immediately, and the ending should resonate. A weak opening can lead to immediate dismissal, while a flat ending leaves a poor final impression. Data suggests that judges often decide on a story’s potential within the first 1-2 pages.
• Not the Right Fit: Don’t submit a story just because you have one ready. Ensure it’s your best work and that it aligns with the competition’s ethos and past winners, if available. Sometimes, a story simply isn’t a good fit for a particular competition, and that’s okay.

Taking the time to meticulously review and refine your submission demonstrates professionalism and respect for the judges’ time. Dissertation help online

It’s a small effort that can yield significant returns.

Beyond Competitions: Other Avenues for Short Story Writers

While short story competitions offer exciting opportunities, they are just one facet of a broader literary ecosystem.

For writers looking to grow and gain exposure, exploring other avenues can be equally, if not more, beneficial.

Submitting to Literary Journals and Anthologies

This is a traditional and highly respected path for short story writers. Someone to write my paper

• Literary Journals: Hundreds of literary journals, both online and print, publish short fiction. These range from highly prestigious e.g., The New Yorker, The Atlantic, Granta to smaller, independent journals that focus on specific styles or emerging voices. Many do not charge submission fees.
• Anthologies: Themed anthologies are curated collections of stories around a specific topic or genre. Calls for submissions for these are often announced through literary news outlets. Being published in an anthology provides excellent exposure and a solid publication credit.
• Advantages: Publication in a reputable journal or anthology carries significant literary weight and is often more accessible than winning a major competition. It builds your publishing resume, which is crucial for attracting agents or publishers for longer works. A 2021 survey found that over 60% of debut novelists had prior publication experience in literary journals.
• Finding Opportunities: Use resources like Duotrope, NewPages.com, and Submittable a platform many journals use to find calls for submissions. Always research a journal’s past issues to ensure your work aligns with their aesthetic.

Building an Online Presence and Community

• Personal Website/Blog: A professional website or blog serves as your literary home base. You can showcase your published work, share updates, and even publish flash fiction or excerpts. This gives you a direct platform to connect with readers.
• Social Media: Platforms like Twitter X, Instagram, and Bluesky have vibrant writing communities. Engage with other writers, literary journals, and agents. Share your work, participate in discussions, and promote your publications. Many journals announce open submission periods or contest calls via social media.
• Online Writing Groups/Workshops: Joining online writing groups e.g., on Facebook, Discord, or dedicated writing platforms can provide invaluable critique partners, support, and a sense of community. Online workshops, often offered by universities or independent organizations, provide structured learning and feedback.
• Patreon/Newsletter: For writers who build a readership, platforms like Patreon allow readers to directly support your work. A regular newsletter can be a great way to stay connected with your audience, share new writing, and announce publication news.

Self-Publishing and Independent Avenues

For those who prefer a more direct route to readers, self-publishing has become a viable and respected option.

• E-books and Print-on-Demand: Platforms like Amazon KDP Kindle Direct Publishing, Smashwords, and Kobo Writing Life allow writers to publish their short stories or collections directly as e-books or print-on-demand paperbacks. This offers complete control over your work, pricing, and distribution.
• Short Story Collections: Instead of submitting individual stories to journals, you can curate a collection of your best short stories and self-publish them. This can be a significant undertaking but allows you to present a cohesive body of work.
• Wattpad/Royal Road: These platforms allow writers to publish stories chapter by chapter, gaining immediate feedback and building a readership. While not typically a direct revenue stream, they can be excellent for testing ideas, honing your voice, and attracting a fan base.
• Advantages of Self-Publishing: Full creative control, faster publication timeline, higher royalty rates often 50-70% compared to traditional publishing’s 10-15%, and direct access to readership data. In 2022, self-published authors accounted for over 30% of e-book sales on Amazon.
• Considerations: Self-publishing requires you to take on the roles of editor, cover designer, marketer, and publicist. It’s a significant commitment that demands business acumen alongside writing skill.

While competitions are a great challenge, diversifying your approach and exploring these alternative avenues can broaden your reach, accelerate your growth as a writer, and ultimately help you achieve your literary goals.

The Long Game: Perseverance and Learning from Rejection

Entering short story competitions, like any serious pursuit in writing, is a long game. Personal essay examples

It demands not just talent but also immense perseverance and the ability to learn from setbacks.

Rejection is an inevitable part of the journey, and how you handle it can define your growth as a writer.

Embracing Rejection as a Stepping Stone

No writer, no matter how acclaimed, escapes rejection.

It’s a rite of passage, and learning to view it constructively is paramount.

• It’s Not Personal: A rejection often means your story wasn’t the right fit for that specific editor, contest, or journal at that moment. It rarely means your writing is inherently bad. Tastes are subjective, and competition is fierce. Industry data indicates that even top-tier literary journals accept less than 1% of submissions.
• Analyze, Don’t Agonize: Instead of despairing, try to analyze. Was there a specific reason? Did you miss a guideline? Was the story truly polished? Sometimes, a rejection is simply a sign that the story needs more work or a different home.
• Learn and Adapt: Use rejection as motivation to improve. Review your story with fresh eyes. Could the opening be stronger? Is the conflict clear? Are the characters compelling? Seek feedback from trusted readers or writing groups.
• Keep Submitting: The single most important response to rejection is to keep submitting. Many successful authors have stories of receiving dozens, even hundreds, of rejections before finding their breakthrough. J.K. Rowling’s first Harry Potter manuscript was famously rejected by 12 publishers.

The Importance of Continuous Learning

The writing craft is an ongoing journey of improvement. You never truly “arrive.” Re write a paragraph

• Read Widely and Deeply: Immerse yourself in different genres, styles, and authors. Read not just for pleasure, but to analyze how other writers craft their narratives, develop characters, and use language. Pay attention to what works and what doesn’t.
• Attend Workshops and Courses: Structured learning environments, whether online or in-person, can provide valuable insights, exercises, and feedback. They expose you to new techniques and different perspectives.
• Join a Critique Group: Having a group of peers who can offer constructive criticism on your work is invaluable. They can spot issues you might miss and offer suggestions for improvement.
• Experiment and Take Risks: Don’t be afraid to try new genres, narrative structures, or points of view. Push your boundaries and step out of your comfort zone. This experimentation can lead to breakthroughs in your writing.
• Set Realistic Goals: Understand that success in writing is a gradual process. Celebrate small victories—finishing a story, getting a thoughtful rejection, receiving positive feedback—and stay consistent with your efforts. According to surveys, writers who consistently write at least 3-5 times a week report higher rates of creative output and satisfaction.

Ultimately, the goal isn’t just to win a competition, but to become the best writer you can be.

This means embracing the journey, learning from every experience, and maintaining an unwavering commitment to your craft, even in the face of numerous rejections.

FAQ

What are short story competitions?

Short story competitions are contests organized by literary magazines, publishing houses, universities, or other organizations that invite writers to submit their short fiction for judging, with the potential to win prizes, publication, and recognition.

Are short story competitions worth entering?

Yes, short story competitions can be worth entering for skill development, potential publication, cash prizes, and exposure to editors and literary agents, even if you don’t win. Literary analysis essay

How much do short story competitions typically cost to enter?

Entry fees for short story competitions typically range from $10 to $25 USD, though some prestigious contests might be slightly higher, and many literary journals offer free submission periods.

What kind of prizes can I win in a short story competition?

Prizes can vary widely, including cash awards from hundreds to tens of thousands of dollars, publication in a literary journal or anthology, mentorships, recognition on literary websites, and sometimes even agent representation.

How do I find reputable short story competitions?

Look for competitions run by established literary journals e.g., Ploughshares, The Iowa Review, reputable publishers, universities, or recognized literary organizations. Websites like Poets & Writers, Duotrope, and NewPages.com list many legitimate opportunities.

What are common mistakes to avoid when submitting to a competition?

Common mistakes include failing to adhere to word limits, not following formatting guidelines, submitting unproofread work, ignoring the competition’s theme, and failing to anonymize your submission if required.

Do I need to pay an entry fee for every short story competition?

No, not every competition requires an entry fee. Press release writing services

Many literary journals offer free submission windows, though these can be highly competitive.

Reputable contests often charge fees to cover administrative costs and prize money.

Can I submit the same story to multiple competitions at once?

It depends on the competition’s rules.

Some allow “simultaneous submissions” submitting the same story to multiple places, but you must be prepared to immediately withdraw your story from all other contests if it’s accepted elsewhere. Always check the specific guidelines.

What is “blind submission” and why is it important?

Blind submission means that your name or any identifying information should not appear on the manuscript itself, only on a separate cover sheet or through the online submission form. Bird by bird

This is important to ensure fair judging, free from bias.

How long does it typically take to hear back from a short story competition?

Response times vary greatly, from a few weeks to several months, or even up to a year for larger, more prestigious contests.

Competition guidelines often provide an estimated response timeline.

What should I do if my story is rejected from a competition?

If your story is rejected, try not to take it personally.

Use it as an opportunity to review your work for potential improvements, and then submit the story to another suitable competition or literary journal. Perseverance is key. Technical writing services

Are there word count limits for short story competitions?

Yes, almost all short story competitions have strict word count limits, which can range from under 1,000 words for flash fiction to 10,000 words or more for longer short stories. Always check the specific guidelines.

What is flash fiction?

Flash fiction is a genre of extremely short stories, often ranging from a few hundred words to under 1,000 words.

These stories demand conciseness, impactful language, and a strong narrative arc within a very limited space.

Should I get my story professionally edited before submitting it?

While not strictly necessary, professional editing can significantly improve your story’s chances.

If you can’t afford a professional editor, have trusted beta readers or a critique group review your work thoroughly before submission. Buy cheap essay

Can I submit a previously published story to a competition?

Generally, no.

Most competitions require “unpublished” work, meaning it has not appeared anywhere in print or online previously.

Always check the specific rules regarding publication status.

What is the role of a cover letter in a short story competition submission?

Many competitions do not require a cover letter.

If one is requested, it should be brief and professional, stating the title of your story and any relevant publication credits. Help me write my paper

It should not summarize your story or be overly personal.

How do I format my short story for submission?

Common formatting guidelines include double-spacing, 12pt Times New Roman or Courier font, standard one-inch margins, and page numbers.

Some contests may have specific requirements, so always refer to their guidelines.

Do major publishers run short story competitions?

While major publishers like Penguin Random House or HarperCollins might occasionally run specific awards or calls for debut writers, they less frequently run open short story competitions compared to literary journals or smaller presses. Their focus is often on longer-form manuscripts.

What happens if my story wins a competition?

If your story wins, you will typically be contacted by the competition organizers regarding prize distribution, publication details, and any publicity requirements.

You’ll likely need to sign a publication agreement.

Should I enter competitions with multiple stories?

Some competitions allow multiple entries often with a separate fee for each, but it’s generally better to focus on submitting your absolute best, most polished story.

Quality over quantity often leads to better outcomes.