Writing Scams: Contests

Obviously, every field will have its share of scams, and writing is no exception. Perhaps the most common one that takes people in so easily is the contest. Not all writing contests are scams, and many writers use contests as a legitimate way to break into their field. However, you should always exercise caution if you would like to enter your work in a contest. There are two common types of contest scams.

One is the short story or essay contest where they charge excessive reading fees. Now, I don't know of too many free writing contests out there, but most legitimate ones won't charge more than $10 to $15. Watch for ones charging more than that. Some of these scam contests will also send you a letter saying you are one of the finalists, but your story needs a little work. They will then recommend an “editing service�? that will help polish your manuscript. Hmm... More money...

Another variation of the contest scams are the “anthologies.�? “You are a winner�?... almost, all you have to do is buy our overpriced anthology. (I almost fell for this one, almost meaning I was 18 and broke, and my parents refused to cough up $50 to buy the book.) This is commonly done with poetry contests, and most likely there is no “winner�? and everyone who is willing to purchase the book will have the luxury of having his/her poem published in this volume.

Whatever publishing method you choose, beware of scams. You may lose money and possibly the rights to your work.