Writer’s Digest Annual Writing Competition: Complete Entry Guide
- Dec 21, 2024
- 5 min read
Updated: Aug 23, 2025
For nearly a century, the Writer’s Digest Annual Writing Competition has been a cornerstone for writers seeking recognition and affirmation for their craft. Whether you’re a seasoned author or just embarking on your writing journey, this prestigious competition offers far more than the chance to showcase your work. This is a gateway to elevating your career, joining a vibrant global writing community, and connecting with like-minded individuals who share your deep passion for storytelling and literature.
One of the most exciting rewards for the Grand Prize Winner is an all-expenses-paid trip to the annual Writer’s Digest Conference. This coveted event connects you with industry professionals, fellow writers, and like-minded creatives from all over the world. It’s not about the awards, really. It's about immersing yourself in an inspiring environment where ideas flow, connections flourish, and you walk away empowered to achieve your literary dreams.
Here’s everything you need to know about the competition and why it’s a golden opportunity for writers of all genres.
About the Competition
The Writer’s Digest Annual Writing Competition is open to writers worldwide and features several categories to accommodate a wide range of writing styles and interests. This makes it a great platform for writers to test their skills and receive recognition from one of the most respected names in the literary world.
Categories Include:
Inspirational Writing
Memoirs/Personal Essays
Genre Fiction (romance, thriller, mystery, etc.)
Mainstream/Literary Short Stories
Rhyming and Non-Rhyming Poetry
Scriptwriting (stage plays, screenplays, and more)
Children’s/Young Adult Fiction
Article Writing
With so many categories to choose from, there’s a place for every writer’s unique voice and style.
Why Enter?
The Writer’s Digest Annual Writing Competition offers more than just accolades; it’s a gateway to new opportunities, professional growth, and valuable exposure for your work. Whether you’re looking to gain industry recognition, connect with a broader audience, or take the next step in your writing career, this competition has something for everyone.
Cash Prizes: With substantial monetary awards for winners and a $5,000 grand prize, the competition offers financial rewards that can help fund your writing journey.
Publication Opportunities: Winning entries are published in Writer’s Digest, one of the most respected names in the literary world, showcasing your work to a wide and engaged audience.
Recognition: Establish credibility and build your reputation within the writing community. Being named a winner or honorable mention is a prestigious achievement that sets you apart.
Exposure: Top winners are featured prominently in a special Writer’s Digest issue and on their website, putting your work in front of key industry players like agents, publishers, and editors, opening doors to new opportunities.
Participating in the Writer’s Digest Annual Writing Competition not only highlights your talent but also positions you as a writer to watch in the competitive literary world. It’s your chance to make a lasting impression on both readers and industry professionals alike.
How to Enter
Entering the competition is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Choose Your Category: Select the category that best fits your work.
Prepare Your Submission: Polish your manuscript or piece according to the guidelines.
Submit Your Work Online: Visit the official Writer’s Digest website, upload your entry, and complete the registration process.
Pay the Entry Fee: A small fee applies for each submission, with discounts for early entries.
Dates to Remember
Mark your calendar with these important deadlines:
Early-Bird Deadline: May 5, 2025
Regular Deadline: June 3, 2025
Extended Deadline: June 17, 2025
Winners Announced: October 14, 2025
Winners will be featured in the November/December 2025 issue of Writer’s Digest. Please note that all deadlines are at 11:59 PM EST on the specified dates. Be sure to check the official competition website for the most current information and any updates to the schedule. By keeping these dates in mind, you can plan your submissions effectively and increase your chances of success in this prestigious competition.
Tips for Success
Submitting your work to a prestigious competition like the Writer’s Digest Annual Writing Competition means you’ll be competing against a wide range of talented writers. To rise above the rest, your submission needs to showcase professionalism, originality, and emotional impact. Here are some actionable tips to help your entry shine:
1. Follow the Guidelines
Adhering to submission rules isn’t just about meeting requirements—it is truly a reflection of your professionalism and respect for the process. Carefully review the competition’s instructions, including word counts, formatting, and category-specific details. Ignoring these can lead to disqualification, no matter how strong your writing is.
Pro Tip: Double-check your submission before sending it to ensure it meets all guidelines. A small oversight can make a big difference.
2. Polish Your Work
Your submission should reflect your very best effort. Revise your piece multiple times, focusing on clarity, pacing, and grammar. Once you’ve done all you can, consider seeking feedback from trusted peers or a professional editor.
Pro Tip: Read your work aloud to catch awkward phrasing or errors you might miss while reading silently.
3. Be Original
Judges read hundreds of submissions, so originality is key to capturing their attention. Avoid clichés and overused tropes by bringing a fresh perspective to your story or poem. Explore unique themes, craft unexpected twists, and let your authentic voice come through.
Pro Tip: Ask yourself, “What makes this piece different from anything else in the competition?”
4. Write with Purpose
A strong submission resonates emotionally, leaving a lasting impression on the reader. Whether you’re crafting a short story, personal essay, or poem, aim to evoke feelings that linger after the final sentence.
Pro Tip: Identify the core message or emotion of your piece. Make sure every element—character, plot, or imagery—supports that purpose.
5. Start with a Strong Opening
Pro Tip: Rewrite your opening several times, experimenting with different approaches to find the one that grabs attention.
6. End on a Memorable Note
A strong closing is just as important as a strong opening. Ensure your ending ties together the themes of your piece and leaves the reader with a sense of satisfaction or curiosity.
Pro Tip: Avoid abrupt endings or overly predictable conclusions. Aim for something that lingers in the reader’s mind.
7. Research Past Winners
Familiarize yourself with previous winning entries to understand what the judges are looking for. Analyze their structure, tone, and themes to gain insights into crafting a competitive piece.
Pro Tip: While it’s helpful to learn from past winners, always strive to maintain your unique voice and perspective.
8. Proofread, Then Proofread Again
Nothing undermines a great piece of writing faster than typos and errors. Take the time to proofread thoroughly, or better yet, ask someone else to review it. A fresh pair of eyes can catch mistakes you might overlook.
Pro Tip: Use tools like Grammarly or ProWritingAid for an extra layer of polish, but don’t rely solely on them.
Submitting your work is an opportunity to showcase your talent and dedication. By following these tips and giving your submission the attention it deserves, you’ll increase your chances of standing out and making a lasting impression on the judges. Good luck!
A Final Word
The Writer’s Digest Annual Writing Competition is an opportunity to elevate your craft, gain recognition, and connect with the literary world. Whether you’re hoping to see your name in print, win cash prizes, or simply challenge yourself, this competition is the perfect platform to share your talent with the world.
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