Follow These Links to Writing Competitions

Whether you're looking to validate yourself as a writer, strengthen your writing chops, or looking for a way to make some cash, it's always good to submit your work to writing competitions. Not only can this provide you with the aforementioned benefits, but you will also gain exposure, experience, and recognition. If you have the "write hook" (see what I did there?), competition judges might remember your name, even if you don't win, and it's something to put on your résumé. Listed below are some websites where you can find the right writing competition for you:

• Writer's Digest - Several different kinds of competitions here, including sci-fi, thriller, romance, and young adult. Most of the deadlines for these competitions are Dec. 31.

• Freelance Writing - This website has a whole bunch of various writing contests listed. Mostly December deadlines right now.

• Proofpositive.com - No deadlines for the competitions listed on this site because they are continuous. Some are monthly or weekly, but there is always something going on.

• FanStory - There are several different competitions going on this month and next month. Everything from poetry prompts to novel contests.

• Manuscript Editing - This page links you to several various competitions. Some include: an Ayn Rand essay contest, a Christian writing contest, and a narrative travel writing contest.

• Be a Better Writer - Lists a bunch of short story/essay/flash piece competitions. Some deadlines have passed, but there are several others to choose from. 

Note: Most of these competitions are only for those 18+, but check the guidelines if you're a minor because some are open to those under 18.