most underrated platforms for writing contests and competitions

Many writers often overlook platforms such as Reedsy, Wattpad, and Vocal Media for writing contests and competitions. These platforms provide diverse opportunities for writers to showcase their talents and gain recognition, yet they don't always get the attention they deserve compared to more mainstream options like Writer's Digest or The New Yorker.

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Reedsy offers a range of weekly prompts and contests, often judged by industry professionals, providing writers with valuable feedback and exposure. Wattpad, known for its massive reader community, frequently hosts themed contests that can catapult unknown writers into the spotlight, giving them access to a global audience. Vocal Media stands out with its regular writing challenges across various genres, offering cash prizes and publication opportunities. These platforms create a supportive environment where writers can grow, experiment with different styles, and engage with a community of like-minded individuals. This sense of community, along with tangible incentives such as feedback and prizes, makes these platforms not only underrated but also invaluable for writers at any stage of their journey.

  • Vocal
    Vocal

    Vocal - Vocal: Empowering content creators with monetization and community.

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  • Reedsy Prompts
    Reedsy Prompts

    Reedsy Prompts - Weekly creative writing challenge and community platform.

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  • WritersCafe
    WritersCafe

    WritersCafe - Creative writing community for sharing and reviewing works.

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  • Wattpad
    Wattpad

    Wattpad - User-generated story-sharing platform.

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  • Submittable
    Submittable

    Submittable - Submittable: Streamlined submission management for organizations and creators.

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  • NYC Midnight
    NYC Midnight

    NYC Midnight - Creative writing competitions with intense deadlines.

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  • Prose
    Prose

    Prose - Custom hair care tailored to individual needs.

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  • FanStory
    FanStory

    FanStory - Community platform for writers to share and improve work.

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  • Scribophile
    Scribophile

    Scribophile - Scribophile: Online writing community and critique platform.

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  • Typishly
    Typishly

    Typishly - Typishly: Premier online hub for short literary works.

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most underrated platforms for writing contests and competitions

1.

Vocal

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Brand Vocal is a contemporary fashion label known for its edgy, urban-inspired designs and high-quality materials. Catering to trendsetters and fashion-forward individuals, Vocal offers a diverse range of clothing that combines comfort with style. The brand frequently updates its collections to reflect current trends while maintaining a distinctive aesthetic. Renowned for its attention to detail and unique prints, Vocal continues to make a mark in the fashion industry with its innovative and bold approach.

Pros

  • pros High-quality sound
  • pros sleek design
  • pros durable build
  • pros excellent customer service
  • pros wide product range

Cons

  • consExpensive pricing
  • cons limited availability
  • cons heavy weight
  • cons complex setup
  • cons average battery life

2.

Reedsy Prompts

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Reedsy Prompts is a creative writing platform that inspires writers with weekly writing contests. Each week, participants receive a set of themed prompts to spark their creativity and craft compelling short stories. Writers can submit their stories for a chance to win cash prizes and gain exposure within the Reedsy community. The platform fosters a supportive environment, encouraging writers to explore diverse genres and improve their skills through constructive feedback and engagement with fellow writers.

Pros

  • pros Encourages creativity
  • pros Provides deadlines
  • pros Diverse prompt selection
  • pros Community engagement
  • pros Fosters writing discipline

Cons

  • consLimited feedback
  • cons Can be competitive
  • cons May not suit all genres
  • cons Requires regular participation
  • cons Potentially overwhelming for beginners

3.

WritersCafe

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WritersCafe is an online community dedicated to writers of all levels, offering a platform to share, critique, and discover written works. Users can post their stories, poems, and essays, receive feedback, and connect with fellow writers worldwide. The site also hosts writing contests and provides resources to help members hone their craft. With a supportive environment and a wealth of creative exchange, WritersCafe nurtures literary talent and fosters a passion for writing.

Pros

  • pros User-friendly interface
  • pros Active writing community
  • pros Useful writing tools
  • pros Prompt customer service
  • pros Regular writing contests

Cons

  • consLimited free features
  • cons Occasional technical issues
  • cons Inconsistent editing options
  • cons Subscription required for premium features
  • cons Limited offline access

4.

Wattpad

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Wattpad is a global online platform for reading and writing stories. It connects a community of writers and readers, offering a space for authors to publish their work and for readers to discover new content across various genres. Launched in 2006, Wattpad leverages social networking features to encourage interaction and feedback, making it a unique hub for storytelling and literary discovery. It has also been instrumental in launching the careers of several successful authors.

Pros

  • pros large user base
  • pros diverse genres
  • pros free to use
  • pros interactive community
  • pros opportunities for writers.

Cons

  • consinconsistent content quality
  • cons ads in free version
  • cons limited editorial oversight
  • cons potential for plagiarism
  • cons app glitches.

5.

Submittable

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Submittable is a cloud-based submission management platform designed to streamline the process of accepting, reviewing, and managing digital content and applications. It caters to organizations across various sectors, including publishing, academia, and grants management. The platform offers robust features like customizable forms, collaborative review tools, and real-time tracking, making it easier for teams to handle large volumes of submissions efficiently. Submittable aims to simplify the submission workflow, enhancing productivity and decision-making for its users.

Pros

  • pros User-friendly interface
  • pros Efficient submission tracking
  • pros Customizable forms
  • pros Robust reporting tools
  • pros Wide range of integrations

Cons

  • consHigher pricing tiers
  • cons Limited customer support hours
  • cons Occasional slow performance
  • cons Learning curve for advanced features
  • cons Limited mobile functionality

6.

NYC Midnight

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NYC Midnight is a creative writing competition platform known for its unique and rigorous challenges. Established in 2002, it offers writers the chance to participate in timed contests that span various genres and formats, including short stories, screenplays, and microfiction. Participants are given specific prompts and deadlines, fostering creativity and pushing the boundaries of their storytelling abilities. The competitions are open to writers worldwide, providing a supportive community and constructive feedback from peers and judges.

Pros

  • pros Challenging prompts
  • pros International community
  • pros Time management skills
  • pros Creative growth
  • pros Feedback opportunities

Cons

  • consEntry fees
  • cons Time constraints
  • cons Mixed feedback quality
  • cons Limited genres
  • cons Intense competition

7.

Prose

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Prose is a personalized hair care brand that offers custom-made products tailored to individual needs. Utilizing an in-depth consultation process, Prose considers factors like hair type, lifestyle, and environmental conditions to formulate shampoos, conditioners, and treatments. Committed to sustainability and high-quality ingredients, Prose ensures its products are free from harmful chemicals and are cruelty-free. The brand aims to deliver effective, bespoke hair care solutions that promote healthier hair and a more personalized beauty experience.

Pros

  • pros Customized formulas
  • pros natural ingredients
  • pros detailed hair analysis
  • pros eco-friendly packaging
  • pros cruelty-free products

Cons

  • consHigher price point
  • cons limited availability
  • cons online-only
  • cons lengthy questionnaire
  • cons potential for inconsistent results

8.

FanStory

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FanStory is an online writing community and platform that offers writers a space to share their work, receive feedback, and participate in writing contests. Established to nurture literary talent, it provides a supportive environment where members can improve their skills through peer reviews and constructive critiques. With a variety of genres and formats, FanStory encourages creativity and growth for writers at all levels, fostering a vibrant community of passionate storytellers and poets.

Pros

  • pros Supportive community
  • pros constructive feedback
  • pros writing contests
  • pros diverse genres
  • pros opportunities for improvement.

Cons

  • consMembership fees
  • cons subjective feedback
  • cons time-consuming
  • cons potential for biased reviews
  • cons limited audience.

9.

Scribophile

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Scribophile is a vibrant online community designed for writers of all levels to exchange feedback, improve their craft, and connect with peers. It offers a platform for sharing work, receiving constructive critiques, and participating in writing contests and discussions. With a structured critique system, Scribophile fosters a supportive environment where members can refine their writing skills, gain valuable insights, and grow as authors. Its commitment to quality feedback sets it apart as a premier destination for serious writers.

Pros

  • pros Strong writing community
  • pros Detailed critiques
  • pros Various writing resources
  • pros Structured feedback groups
  • pros Encouraging environment

Cons

  • consMembership costs
  • cons Time-consuming critique requirements
  • cons Limited free features
  • cons Competitive atmosphere
  • cons Learning curve for new users

10.

Typishly

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Typishly is a distinguished online literary magazine that showcases a diverse array of contemporary poetry and short fiction. Celebrated for its high editorial standards and commitment to emerging and established writers alike, Typishly offers a platform where compelling, thought-provoking works find an appreciative audience. The magazine is renowned for its swift response times, supportive editorial feedback, and visually appealing presentation, making it a cherished destination for both readers and writers seeking quality literary content.

Pros

  • pros Quality content
  • pros User-friendly interface
  • pros Diverse genres
  • pros Professional editing
  • pros Engaging community

Cons

  • consLimited free features
  • cons Subscription required
  • cons Occasional technical glitches
  • cons Time-consuming submissions
  • cons Niche audience

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