Most Underrated Platforms for Writing Contests and Competitions
Platforms for writing contests and competitions are online services or websites that facilitate the organization, submission, and judging of writing entries. These platforms cater to a variety of genres and skill levels, offering writers opportunities to showcase their work, gain recognition, and potentially win prizes.
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These platforms often provide a user-friendly interface that allows writers to easily submit their entries and track their progress. They may also include resources such as writing tips, forums, and feedback from judges or peers to help writers improve their skills. Many platforms feature a wide range of contests, from poetry and short stories to essays and full-length novels, and they often categorize competitions by age group, genre, or experience level. Some platforms partner with literary magazines, publishers, or organizations to offer prestigious prizes, publication opportunities, and even mentorship programs. By participating in these contests, writers not only gain exposure but also build a portfolio of recognized work, potentially opening doors to further literary opportunities.
SubmittableView AllSubmittable - Submittable is a cloud-based submission management software.
WattpadView AllWattpad - A platform for reading and writing user-generated stories.
InkittView AllInkitt - Inkitt is a reader-powered book publishing platform.
ReedsyView AllReedsy - Reedsy: platform connecting authors with publishing professionals.
ScribophileView AllScribophile - Scribophile: Online community for writers to critique and improve.
ProWritingAidView AllProWritingAid - ProWritingAid: Writing assistant enhancing grammar, style, and clarity.
CoverflyView AllCoverfly - Platform connecting screenwriters with industry opportunities.
VocalView AllVocal - Vocal is a team communication platform for audio conversations.
DuotropeView AllDuotrope - Duotrope: a submission tracker and resource for writers.
The Writer's WorkoutView AllThe Writer's Workout - The Writer's Workout: Daily exercises to enhance writing skills.
Most Underrated Platforms for Writing Contests and Competitions
1.
Submittable
Submittable is a cloud-based submission management platform that streamlines the process of accepting, reviewing, and managing applications, entries, and content. Designed for organizations of all sizes, it simplifies workflows for grants, contests, calls for submissions, and more. With features like customizable forms, team collaboration tools, and robust tracking and reporting, Submittable enhances efficiency and transparency. It serves a diverse clientele, including publishers, nonprofits, and corporations, facilitating seamless submission experiences.
Pros
User-friendly interface - Centralized submission tracking
- Customizable forms
- Submission fee management
- Detailed reporting tools
Cons
Subscription costs - Limited integration options
- Occasional technical glitches
- Learning curve for new users
- Limited customer support hours
2.
Wattpad
Wattpad is a global online platform and community where users can read and write stories in various genres. Launched in 2006, it allows writers to share their work with millions of readers worldwide and gain feedback. Readers can enjoy free access to a wide array of content, from amateur writings to professionally published works. Wattpad also serves as a springboard for emerging writers, with several stories being adapted into books, movies, and TV shows.
Pros
- Large user base
- Free to use
- Diverse genres
- Community engagement
- Writing contests
Cons
- Quality varies
- Ads can be intrusive
- Limited editing tools
- Data privacy concerns
- Popularity competition
3.
Inkitt
Inkitt is a digital publishing platform that leverages data-driven algorithms to discover and promote new literary talent. By analyzing reader engagement and feedback, Inkitt identifies potential bestsellers and offers writers the opportunity to reach a global audience. Authors can publish their works for free, while readers can explore a diverse range of genres. Inkitt also provides pathways for successful stories to transition into traditional publishing, including print books and audiobooks.
Pros
- Wide range of genres
- supportive community
- opportunity for feedback
- free to use
- potential for publication
Cons
- Limited marketing support
- inconsistent quality control
- no guaranteed readership
- potential for long wait times
- less established than competitors
4.
Reedsy
Reedsy is a comprehensive online marketplace and platform designed for authors, offering a range of professional services to support the self-publishing process. Writers can connect with vetted editors, designers, marketers, and ghostwriters to enhance their manuscripts and launch their books successfully. Reedsy also provides valuable resources, including courses and a book formatting tool, to help authors at every stage of their publishing journey. Its mission is to empower authors with the tools and expertise needed to produce high-quality books.
Pros
- User-friendly interface
- wide range of services
- professional freelancers
- secure payment system
- collaborative tools.
Cons
- Higher costs
- limited freelancer selection
- occasional communication delays
- service fees
- less control over project management.
5.
Scribophile
Scribophile is an online writing community designed for writers to share their work, receive constructive critiques, and improve their writing skills. It operates on a reciprocal critique system, where members earn points by providing feedback to others, which they can then use to post their own work for review. The platform fosters a supportive environment, featuring forums, writing contests, and educational resources. Scribophile caters to writers of all genres and experience levels, aiming to help them grow and succeed.
Pros
- Constructive feedback
- Active community
- Learning resources
- Diverse genres
- Critique requirement system
Cons
- Membership cost
- Limited free features
- Time-consuming critique process
- Variable critique quality
- Competitive atmosphere
6.
ProWritingAid
ProWritingAid is a comprehensive writing assistant designed to improve grammar, style, and readability. It offers real-time editing and detailed reports to enhance writing clarity and coherence. Suitable for various types of writers, it integrates with popular platforms like Microsoft Word, Google Docs, and Scrivener. With features like contextual thesaurus, in-depth analysis, and personalized suggestions, ProWritingAid helps users refine their writing, making it more polished and professional.
Pros
- Comprehensive analysis
- Style suggestions
- Grammar checks
- Plagiarism detection
- Integrations.
Cons
- Can be overwhelming
- Limited free version
- Occasional inaccuracies
- Requires internet
- Slower than some competitors.
7.
Coverfly
Coverfly is an online platform that connects screenwriters with industry professionals, including agents, managers, and producers. It hosts a database of scripts and writers, providing a space for screenwriters to showcase their work, receive feedback, and gain exposure. Coverfly also aggregates scores from various screenwriting competitions, fellowships, and labs, helping writers understand their strengths and areas for improvement. The platform aims to democratize access to the film and television industry, making it easier for emerging talent to be discovered.
Pros
- industry exposure
- access to competitions
- feedback from professionals
- network building
- career advancement opportunities.
Cons
- submission fees
- selective acceptance
- variable feedback quality
- limited genre focus
- potential for long wait times.
8.
Vocal
Vocal is an online platform that enables creators to publish and share their stories, articles, and creative content across various genres. It provides tools for writers, musicians, filmmakers, and other artists to monetize their work through tips, subscriptions, and challenges. Vocal offers a supportive community and ensures content is easily discoverable by a wide audience. The platform also emphasizes quality and originality, providing a space for creators to connect and grow their audience.
Pros
- diverse community
- multiple categories
- potential for earnings
- user-friendly interface
- supportive feedback
Cons
- competition can be high
- monetization takes time
- some features require subscription
- limited customization
- occasional technical issues
9.
Duotrope
Duotrope is an online resource that helps writers and artists find the right publishers and agents for their work. It offers a comprehensive database of literary markets, including magazines, journals, contests, and publishers across various genres. Users can track their submissions, receive deadline reminders, and access detailed market statistics. Duotrope operates on a subscription model, providing valuable tools and information to assist creative individuals in navigating the often complex world of publishing.
Pros
- Comprehensive database of publishers
- user-friendly interface
- submission tracking
- detailed market listings
- frequent updates.
Cons
- Subscription fee
- limited free access
- occasional outdated listings
- not all markets included
- some data inaccuracies.
10.
The Writer's Workout
The Writer's Workout is a dynamic platform dedicated to enhancing writers' skills through structured exercises, prompts, and challenges. It aims to foster creativity, improve writing techniques, and build a supportive community for writers of all levels. By offering a variety of activities, from daily prompts to intensive workshops, The Writer's Workout helps writers stay motivated, develop discipline, and achieve their writing goals while connecting with fellow enthusiasts and professionals in the literary field.
Pros
- Encourages discipline
- Improves writing skills
- Provides structure
- Enhances creativity
- Builds confidence.
Cons
- Time-consuming
- Potential burnout
- Not flexible
- Can be repetitive
- May stifle spontaneous creativity.