For writers seeking recognition, motivation, or simply a reason to keep the words flowing, creative writing contests provide a valuable outlet. These competitions offer structured deadlines, potential publication opportunities, and often, monetary rewards. Whether you're a poet, novelist, short story writer, or nonfiction enthusiast, there's a contest out there tailored to your strengths. In addition to building credibility and connecting with literary communities, entering contests is a fantastic way to challenge yourself and grow as a writer.
1. Iowa Short Fiction Award
A prestigious annual contest run by the University of Iowa Press, this award is open to writers who have yet to publish a full-length fiction manuscript. The prize includes publication in the esteemed Iowa Short Fiction series, a platform that has launched many prominent literary careers.
Winning this award can serve as a powerful credential, drawing the attention of agents, editors, and literary journals. The selection process is rigorous, but for writers of short stories with a strong voice and cohesive manuscript, this contest represents an incredible opportunity to break into the publishing world.
Key Highlights:
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Sponsored by the University of Iowa Press for first collections of short fiction.
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Winners receive book publication and national distribution.
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Open to writers who have not previously published a fiction book.
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Recognized for launching the careers of many acclaimed short story writers.
2. The Bridport Prize
Based in the UK but open internationally, the Bridport Prize accepts submissions in poetry, short story, flash fiction, and novel excerpts. It offers significant monetary awards and publication opportunities, attracting thousands of entries from around the world.
What makes the Bridport Prize stand out is its global reach and dedication to literary quality. Being placed or shortlisted in this competition is considered a major accomplishment. It’s ideal for writers seeking international exposure and validation from one of the most respected writing competitions globally.
Key Highlights:
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Prestigious UK-based competition for short stories, poetry, and flash fiction.
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Winners receive cash prizes and publication in the Bridport anthology.
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Open internationally to both emerging and established writers.
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Judged by prominent literary figures with strong industry influence.
3. Bath Novel Award
The Bath Novel Award is open to writers of fiction novels in any genre, including literary fiction, YA, and more. The competition is judged by literary agents, offering a direct path to representation and publication.
The contest emphasizes strong storytelling and compelling characters. It’s an excellent option for writers who have completed a manuscript and are looking to take the next step toward publication. Many past finalists have gone on to secure book deals shortly after entering.
Key Highlights:
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Open to writers of fiction novels in any genre, including literary fiction, YA, and more.
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Prize includes publication and a monetary award.
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Known for supporting diverse voices and unique perspectives.
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Winners featured in Narrative Magazine.
4. Narrative Prize
Hosted by Narrative Magazine, this prize is awarded annually for the best fiction, nonfiction, or poetry submitted to the Narrative Prize contest. The award includes a cash prize and public recognition, often leading to greater opportunities for contributors.
This contest focuses on innovative and emotionally resonant storytelling. Winning or being featured by Narrative can significantly enhance a writer’s visibility, as the magazine has a broad readership and high regard in the literary community.
Key Highlights:
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Awarded annually for the best fiction, nonfiction, or poetry submitted to the Narrative Prize contest.
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Accepts fiction, nonfiction, and poetry.
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Prize includes significant monetary award and recognition.
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Helps elevate promising voices in the literary community.
5. Writers of the Future Contest
A long-running competition dedicated to science fiction and fantasy writers, this quarterly contest is open to unpublished authors. Winners receive cash prizes, publication in the Writers of the Future anthology, and a trip to a writing workshop.
It’s one of the most well-known genre contests and is backed by established sci-fi authors. For speculative fiction writers, it’s a strong entry point into a passionate and supportive literary network.
Key Highlights:
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Long-running contest focused on science fiction and fantasy.
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Open to amateur writers who haven't professionally published.
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Winners receive publication and are invited to a professional workshop.
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Judged by bestselling genre authors and editors.
6. Commonwealth Short Story Prize
This prestigious award is open to citizens of Commonwealth countries or stateless persons currently residing in a Commonwealth country and honors the best short fiction from different regions. Stories are judged regionally and globally, providing wide recognition.
The contest emphasizes diverse voices and global storytelling. Winners receive a generous monetary prize and publication, making it one of the top international contests for short fiction writers.
Key Highlights:
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Open to writers from Commonwealth countries.
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Awards regional and overall prizes for unpublished short stories.
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Focuses on showcasing new talent and diverse voices.
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Winners receive cash awards and publication.
7. Zoetrope: All-Story Short Fiction Contest
Sponsored by Francis Ford Coppola’s Zoetrope: All-Story, this annual contest is judged by prominent authors and editors. The top story receives a cash prize and consideration by major literary agencies.
Known for publishing bold and original stories, the contest is a great fit for fiction writers with cinematic or emotionally intense narratives. Being published here can open many professional doors.
Key Highlights:
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Hosted by the acclaimed literary magazine founded by Francis Ford Coppola.
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Open to unpublished short stories of literary fiction.
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Winners considered for representation by top literary agencies.
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Offers publication and promotion through Zoetrope's network.
8. Graywolf Press Nonfiction Prize
This contest is an exceptional opportunity for emerging writers working in the nonfiction space. Graywolf Press seeks innovative, bold, and reflective works that push the boundaries of the genre. Submissions can include memoir, personal essay collections, or any nonfiction that demonstrates unique perspective and literary depth. The winner receives a publication contract with Graywolf and a significant advance, offering both creative validation and practical support.
The prize is particularly notable for its emphasis on craft and voice rather than fame or credentials. Many past winners have gone on to enjoy successful literary careers after debuting with Graywolf. The press itself is known for publishing thoughtful and genre-defying works, making this contest an excellent stepping stone for writers who want to contribute to the evolution of nonfiction literature.
Key Highlights:
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Awarded for outstanding literary nonfiction manuscript.
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Winner receives publication and advance payment.
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Open to emerging writers not previously published by major presses.
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Focuses on innovative and risk-taking nonfiction.
9. New Millennium Writing Awards
With four categories: fiction, flash fiction, poetry, and nonfiction - this contest runs multiple cycles throughout the year, offering flexibility and consistent opportunities for writers to submit. What makes this competition appealing is its accessibility and the fact that each category is judged separately, giving all forms of writing their own spotlight. Cash prizes and publication in the New Millennium Writings journal await winners.
The competition has built a reputation for discovering fresh voices and rewarding authenticity and originality. The submission process is straightforward, and the journal provides feedback to finalists, which can be a valuable learning tool. Whether you're a new writer testing your skills or a seasoned author with something powerful to say, this contest provides a nurturing and rewarding platform.
Key Highlights:
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Quarterly contest with categories for fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and flash.
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Winners receive cash prizes and publication.
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Open to writers at all experience levels.
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Known for promoting new voices in literary publishing.
10. Kenyon Review Short Fiction Contest
Hosted by one of the most prestigious literary journals in the U.S., the Kenyon Review Short Fiction Contest is open to writers who have not yet published a book. It focuses on short fiction under 1,200 words, encouraging precision, clarity, and emotional impact in a compact format. Winners receive publication and a full scholarship to the Kenyon Review Writers Workshop.
This contest stands out for its commitment to emerging voices and its integration with the wider Kenyon Review literary community. Past winners have praised the exposure and mentorship opportunities, and many have gone on to further acclaim. The chance to work closely with editors and other respected writers makes this more than a contest - it’s a meaningful literary experience.
Key Highlights:
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Open to writers who have not yet published a full-length book.
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Focused on short fiction under 1,200 words.
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Winner receives publication in the Kenyon Review and a full scholarship to the Kenyon Review Writers Workshop.
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Judged by a rotating guest editor.
11. Boulevard Short Fiction Contest for Emerging Writers
Specifically geared toward writers who have not yet published a book of fiction, poetry, or creative nonfiction with a nationally distributed press, this contest hosted by Boulevard Magazine offers a generous cash prize and publication to the best short story submission. Boulevard has long been known for its high-quality fiction and rigorous editorial standards, making acceptance into its pages a significant milestone.
Winning the contest can act as a catalyst for a budding literary career, as Boulevard's editors are deeply connected within the publishing world. The contest not only rewards strong narrative voice and emotional complexity but also gives the winner visibility in a journal respected by agents and fellow authors alike. It’s an excellent opportunity for serious emerging fiction writers.
Key Highlights:
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Open to writers who haven't published a book of fiction.
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Recognizes outstanding short stories.
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Winner receives publication and a monetary prize.
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Judged by the Boulevard editorial staff.
12. Rattle Poetry Prize
The Rattle Poetry Prize is among the most lucrative and competitive poetry contests in the English-speaking world. It awards $15,000 to the winner for a single poem and includes publication in Rattle, a widely read poetry journal. Ten finalists each receive $500 and publication, with one of them also earning a $5,000 Readers’ Choice Award.
What makes Rattle unique is its blend of accessibility and prestige. The contest is open to all poets, regardless of experience or previous publication history, and focuses solely on the poem’s merit. The winning entries often explore powerful themes and showcase innovative language use, making this a must-enter for poets looking to gain recognition and build an audience.
Key Highlights:
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Major international poetry competition.
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Open to writers worldwide for a single poem.
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Winner receives a significant cash prize and publication in Rattle.
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Includes a Readers' Choice Award.
13. The Moth Short Story Prize
Based in Ireland but open internationally, The Moth Short Story Prize has gained a strong following for its global inclusivity and its appreciation for literary storytelling. The contest accepts unpublished short stories and offers cash prizes and publication in The Moth magazine, which is known for its artistic presentation and literary richness.
This prize is ideal for writers seeking a high-quality platform that respects the craft of storytelling. Past judges have included renowned authors, ensuring thoughtful selection. Winning or being shortlisted often leads to further opportunities, including readings and agent interest. For writers of lyrical, character-driven stories, The Moth is a compelling option.
Key Highlights:
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Prestigious international contest open to all writers.
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Winners receive cash prizes and publication in The Moth magazine.
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Judged by acclaimed literary figures.
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Focuses on original, powerful storytelling.
14. Stella Kupferberg Memorial Short Story Prize
Presented by The Paris Review and the live storytelling series Selected Shorts, this competition celebrates short fiction that shines when read aloud. The winning story is performed on stage by a professional actor and broadcast on public radio, offering an unusual yet highly effective way to share one’s writing.
In addition to publication and a cash prize, the winner is flown to New York City for the performance. This unique format brings stories to life and emphasizes the musicality and emotional power of language. Writers who enjoy crafting dialogue-driven, scene-rich stories that connect with live audiences will find this contest particularly inspiring.
Key Highlights:
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Sponsored by The Selected Shorts series.
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Winner's story performed live at Symphony Space in NYC.
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Open to original short fiction under 750 words.
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Judged by a prominent guest author.
15. The Missouri Review Editors’ Prize
One of the most respected university literary journals, The Missouri Review hosts an annual contest in fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. It awards substantial cash prizes and features the winning entries in both print and audio editions of the journal. The competition welcomes a variety of styles and voices, making it an inclusive and respected space for writers of all levels.
What sets this contest apart is its editorial attention and wide dissemination. Winners benefit from in-depth editing and are promoted across the journal’s print, online, and podcast platforms. The Editors’ Prize is an excellent opportunity for writers who value a polished final product and who want their work to be experienced in multiple formats.
Key Highlights:
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Open for fiction, nonfiction, and poetry.
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Winners receive $5,000 and publication.
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Entries reviewed by the editorial team of a major literary magazine.
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Recognizes excellence and originality in writing.
16. Ploughshares Emerging Writer’s Contest
This competition is specifically for writers who have yet to publish a book, offering a significant stepping stone into the literary world. Categories include fiction, nonfiction, and poetry, with winners receiving publication in Ploughshares and a cash prize. The journal’s editorial team judges the entries, ensuring a rigorous and thoughtful selection process.
Publication in Ploughshares is a career milestone, as the journal is widely read and respected in literary circles. Winning the Emerging Writer’s Contest not only provides validation but also opens doors to future publications, representation, and a broader readership. It’s a prime opportunity for writers preparing to take their work to the next level.
Key Highlights:
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Open to writers who have not yet published a book.
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Categories include fiction, nonfiction, and poetry.
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Winners receive publication and cash prize.
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Sponsored by a top-tier literary journal based at Emerson College.
17. Tin House Summer Workshop Scholarship Contests
While not a traditional writing contest, Tin House offers multiple scholarship competitions for its renowned summer writing workshops. These contests seek standout samples in fiction, nonfiction, and poetry, and winners receive full tuition, lodging, and travel support to attend the workshop. The selection is based on writing excellence, voice, and potential.
Attending the Tin House Workshop is a transformative experience, providing direct access to top-tier writers, editors, and agents. The contest element ensures that scholarship winners represent some of the most promising voices in the literary world. For emerging writers looking for an immersive environment to develop their craft and make industry connections, this opportunity is unparalleled.
Key Highlights:
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Offers scholarships for fiction, nonfiction, and poetry.
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Winners receive full tuition, housing, and travel coverage.
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Selection based on quality, originality, and promise.
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Ideal for writers seeking intensive workshop experiences with top authors and editors.
Writing Tools to Strengthen Your Contest Submissions: Freewrite Devices
Competing in creative writing contests demands not just imagination and dedication, but also the discipline to maintain a consistent and focused writing practice. Whether you're drafting a short story, polishing a poetry submission, or working on a narrative essay, having the right environment and tools can significantly enhance the quality of your work. Many writers face challenges like digital distractions, limited time, and creative fatigue especially when trying to meet strict contest deadlines that require clarity, originality, and polish.
Freewrite devices, developed by Astrohaus, are specifically designed to support writers through these challenges. These distraction-free writing tools eliminate the interruptions of typical computers: no notifications, no internet browsing, just you and your words. With features such as an eye-friendly E Ink™ screen, a responsive mechanical keyboard, and automatic cloud backups, Freewrite devices help you stay in the zone, protect your drafts, and write with greater purpose. Whether you're preparing a submission for one of the contests above or simply building a daily habit that sharpens your writing skills, Freewrite tools are built to keep you focused and productive, empowering you to put your best work forward.
Freewrite Alpha
TheFreewrite Alpha is a compact writing device built for writers who need a simple, focused tool to capture their ideas. It’s designed to help users dive into drafting without distractions, making it easy to get thoughts down quickly. Its FSTN LCD screen is designed for clear visibility during writing sessions. Its battery lasts for extended sessions, so inspiration isn’t cut short.
The Alpha includes a comfortable keyboard for smooth typing and saves work automatically, with options to sync drafts to the cloud for later editing on other devices. It’s ideal for writers starting their journey or those who want a portable, no-frills writing experience.
Key Highlights
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Compact and distraction-free for focused writing
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Lightweight and portable
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Eye-friendly screen
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Long-lasting battery
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Comfortable keyboard
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Automatic saving with cloud sync
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Perfect for beginners or minimalists
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No apps or notifications
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Simple design for creative flow
Freewrite Traveler
TheFreewrite Traveler is a portable writing device crafted for writers who create on the move. It’s built to eliminate distractions, letting users focus solely on their words, whether in a café or during travel. Its E Ink screen minimizes glare for comfortable writing in well-lit environments, and its slim, lightweight build slips easily into a bag.
The Traveler offers a responsive keyboard for comfortable typing and saves drafts securely, with cloud syncing to access work later on other platforms. It’s a great choice for writers who want a dedicated tool that supports their mobile lifestyle without the clutter of a full laptop.
Key Highlights
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Portable for writing anywhere
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Distraction-free environment
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Eye-friendly display
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Slim and lightweight design
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Responsive keyboard
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Secure draft saving with cloud sync
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Ideal for traveling writers
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No internet browsing or apps
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Supports creative focus
Freewrite Smart Typewriter (Gen3)
TheFreewrite Smart Typewriter is a modern take on the classic typewriter, designed for writers who crave a focused drafting experience with a retro feel. It’s perfect for deep writing sessions, blocking out distractions to help ideas flow freely. Its E Ink screen is clear and readable in bright conditions, ideal for focused writing.
It features a tactile keyboard for satisfying typing and automatically saves work, with cloud syncing for seamless transitions to editing on other devices. The Smart Typewriter suits writers who want a sturdy, dedicated device that feels like a creative companion for novels, articles, or journals.
Key Highlights
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Classic typewriter-inspired design
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Distraction-free for deep focus
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Clear, readable screen
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Tactile keyboard for comfortable typing
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Automatic saving with cloud sync
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Sturdy build for long-term use
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Ideal for extended writing sessions
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No apps or notifications
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Enhances creative productivity
Conclusion
Whether you’re an emerging voice or a seasoned author, entering creative writing contests can be an essential part of your literary journey. These competitions not only provide the chance for publication and financial reward but also serve as powerful motivators, helping writers stay focused and committed to their craft. With opportunities ranging from poetry and nonfiction to flash fiction and full-length novels, there’s something for everyone.
For those seeking a distraction-free environment to prepare their next submission, devices like the Freewrite Smart Typewriter or Freewrite Traveler offer a clean, focused writing experience. These tools are designed with writers in mind, allowing creativity to flourish without the clutter of digital distractions. Whether you're drafting for a contest or pursuing your own project, writing with intention begins with a clear space - and that’s exactly what Freewrite delivers.
