Participating in short story writing contests can be one of the most rewarding ways for both new and experienced writers to sharpen their skills and gain recognition. These contests often provide specific themes, word limits, and deadlines, giving writers a structured way to practice storytelling and meet creative goals. Whether you’re submitting to a local literary magazine or an international competition, entering a contest offers a chance to push your boundaries, receive feedback, and possibly get your work published. Even if you don’t win, the process of revising, editing, and submitting can significantly improve your writing and build confidence in your voice and style.
Contests also serve as a platform to network with other writers, editors, and literary professionals. Many competitions are judged by established authors or industry experts, meaning your work could be seen by influential individuals. Additionally, the deadlines and guidelines help cultivate discipline, while the submission process encourages a higher level of professionalism. Regular participation can even result in a portfolio of polished work, preparing you for larger opportunities in publishing. And in a world full of digital distractions, contests offer a rare chance to focus solely on the craft and elevate your creative voice in a focused and rewarding environment.
1. Writer’s Digest Annual Writing Competition
One of the most well-known contests in the literary world, the Writer’s Digest Annual Writing Competition is a long-running and prestigious opportunity for writers across a variety of genres, including short fiction. With multiple categories and cash prizes for winners, this contest attracts thousands of submissions every year. Finalists and winners often find themselves gaining professional momentum, as the contest is closely watched by publishers, agents, and editors in the literary field. The exposure alone can be a game-changer for emerging writers.
Beyond recognition, the Writer’s Digest competition is a chance to receive validation from a reputable platform that values storytelling. Submitting your work here isn’t just about winning, it's about seeing how your writing holds up in a national pool of talent. The deadline-driven process encourages writers to revise, polish, and take their craft seriously. Finalists are often published in the Writer’s Digest magazine or online, further amplifying their reach and credibility. For any writer looking to level up their career or simply challenge themselves creatively, this contest is a worthwhile endeavor.
Key Highlights:
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Includes multiple categories; the short story category draws thousands of entries.
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Winners receive cash, publication in Writer’s Digest, and conference registration.
2. The Masters Review Short Story Award for New Writers
Is open exclusively to emerging authors who have not yet published a novel. Accepting stories up to 6,000 words, the contest aims to spotlight new literary talent. Winners receive cash prizes, publication in The Masters Review, and consultation with a literary agent making it a comprehensive opportunity for career development.
This contest stands out for its dedication to emerging writers and its strong ties to the literary industry. Judges are often acclaimed authors or publishing professionals, ensuring high-quality feedback and exposure. For unpublished writers looking to make their mark, this contest offers a launching pad into the professional literary world.
Key Highlights:
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Exclusively for emerging writers without published books.
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Winners receive publication, cash prizes, and agency review.
3. Bath Short Story Award
The Bath Short Story Award is a highly regarded international contest that attracts entries from writers across the globe. Known for its generous cash prizes and strong commitment to literary excellence, this competition is open to stories up to 2,200 words in any genre or theme. The top stories are published in an anthology, offering widespread exposure and the chance to be noticed by agents and publishers. Past winners have gone on to secure book deals and literary representation, making it an ideal contest for serious emerging writers.
One of the strengths of the Bath Short Story Award is its editorial integrity and consistent emphasis on originality. The judges seek compelling narratives that push boundaries and explore human experience in inventive ways. Whether you write literary fiction or experimental prose, this contest offers a welcoming and prestigious platform to showcase your talent. Writers also benefit from the detailed guidelines and example stories from past winners, helping to refine submissions and increase their chances of success.
Key Highlights:
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Accepts global submissions up to 2,200 words with no genre restrictions.
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Winners get cash prizes and publication in an annual anthology.
4. Commonwealth Short Story Prize
The Commonwealth Short Story Prize is a powerful platform for writers from diverse backgrounds across the globe. Open to citizens of Commonwealth countries, the contest is divided into regional categories, with winners from each area competing for the overall prize. What sets this contest apart is its focus on amplifying underrepresented voices and celebrating cultural narratives that may not often reach a global audience. Stories must be unpublished and between 2,000 and 5,000 words.
Winning or even being shortlisted for the Commonwealth Prize can open doors to international recognition. The contest is judged by literary professionals and celebrated authors who are committed to finding fresh, authentic voices. In addition to monetary awards, winners are published on Granta, a highly respected literary platform, giving authors immediate prestige and reach. It's not just a contest—it’s a celebration of storytelling that connects writers from around the world.
Key Highlights:
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Open to writers from Commonwealth countries.
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Offers regional and overall prizes, plus publication and mentorship opportunities.
5. Zoetrope, All-Story Short Fiction Contest
The Zoetrope. All-Story Short Fiction Contest is hosted by one of the most stylistically bold literary magazines in the United States. Founded by filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola, the contest encourages innovative storytelling and fresh narrative approaches. Writers are invited to submit literary fiction up to 5,000 words, and the winners are judged by a prominent guest editor—typically a well-known novelist or literary figure.
This contest is especially beneficial for writers who enjoy experimental or genre-blending prose. Beyond the cash prizes, winning stories are often considered for publication in Zoetrope: All-Story or passed along to major literary agencies affiliated with the publication. The contest also helps writers gain exposure within the film and screenwriting community, as the magazine has deep roots in cinematic storytelling. It’s an excellent opportunity for authors interested in cross-medium recognition.
Key Highlights:
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Judged by prominent authors; focused on literary fiction.
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Winners may be offered representation and are considered for publication.
6. NYC Midnight Short Story Challenge
The NYC Midnight Short Story Challenge is a high-energy, timed contest that challenges writers to create a short story based on a specific genre, subject, and character within a limited timeframe. With multiple rounds and progressively smaller time windows, this competition pushes participants to think fast and write even faster. Each writer receives a unique prompt, ensuring that every story is original and tailored to the writer’s creativity. The challenge is open to writers around the globe and draws thousands of participants.
One of the most exciting aspects of this contest is the combination of pressure and creativity. Writers often find themselves producing some of their most innovative and unexpected work under time constraints. Feedback is provided after each round, which helps writers grow and refine their storytelling skills. The contest has a lively community atmosphere, with forums and discussions that offer support and encouragement. It’s a perfect fit for writers who thrive under deadlines and enjoy the thrill of storytelling under pressure.
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Writers receive prompts and limited time to craft stories.
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Multiple rounds and peer competition; great for writers who enjoy creative constraints.
7. SmokeLong Quarterly Flash Fiction Award
SmokeLong Quarterly is a well-respected literary journal specializing in flash fiction, and their annual Flash Fiction Award is a standout opportunity for writers of very short stories. The contest seeks stories that are under 1,000 words but packed with depth, emotion, and resonance. Judges are looking for pieces that surprise, challenge, or move the reader all within a tight word limit. Winning entries are published in the journal and accompanied by author interviews, providing a spotlight on both the story and the writer’s process.
This competition is ideal for writers who excel at distilling powerful narratives into compact formats. It’s a true art form to convey layered meaning and character development within such a small space, and the SmokeLong contest rewards that skill. The journal is highly respected in literary circles, and publication here can be a meaningful boost to a writer’s visibility. Whether you're new to flash fiction or a seasoned practitioner, this award offers a high-caliber platform to showcase your best work.
Key Highlights:
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Focused on flash fiction of 1,000 words or fewer.
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Winner receives $1,500 and publication in SmokeLong Quarterly.
8. BBC National Short Story Award
The BBC National Short Story Award is one of the most prestigious literary prizes in the UK, open to British writers with a passion for short fiction. The contest has a rich history of honoring both well-known and emerging voices and is known for its commitment to high literary standards. Stories must be up to 8,000 words. and are judged by an esteemed panel of literary experts, often including Booker Prize winners and influential authors.
Winning the BBC National Short Story Award not only provides a substantial cash prize but also comes with national radio coverage, as the shortlisted stories are often broadcast on BBC Radio 4. This kind of exposure is rare and incredibly valuable for a writer’s career. It elevates your work to a mainstream audience and places your name among a list of past winners that includes literary giants. The award’s focus on serious, evocative storytelling makes it a dream opportunity for writers who aim to create work with emotional and intellectual depth.
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One of the UK’s most prestigious story awards.
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Offers a large cash prize and wide media exposure through the BBC.
9. Bridport Prize
The Bridport Prize is an international short story contest that accepts both published and unpublished work, welcoming writers from around the world. Entries can be up to 5,000 words and are judged by well-known authors and literary professionals. Winners receive substantial cash prizes, and selected stories are published in the Bridport Prize anthology, which helps winners reach a wider literary audience.
What makes the Bridport Prize particularly valuable is its reputation for discovering new talent and offering them a prestigious platform. The contest is associated with the Dorset Prize and has often served as a stepping stone to larger literary recognition, including publication deals and fellowships. It’s ideal for writers looking to gain international exposure while competing in a highly respected contest that values strong storytelling and unique narrative voices.
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Accepts a variety of styles and genres for short fiction.
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Winners are published in a respected annual anthology.
10. Narrative Magazine Spring Story
Contest Narrative Magazine’s Spring Story Contest is one of several annual competitions hosted by this influential online literary journal. Focused on original short fiction, the contest seeks compelling storytelling with literary excellence. Open to writers of all backgrounds, the contest includes a generous cash prize, publication in Narrative Magazine, and potential nomination for prestigious literary anthologies like The Pushcart Prize.
What sets this contest apart is the magazine’s wide readership and reputation for publishing high-quality work. Stories accepted by Narrative gain exposure to thousands of readers, including editors, agents, and fellow writers. The contest also offers editorial feedback for finalists, making it a valuable experience for all entrants. Writers who are looking to place their work in a highly visible, respected venue will find the Narrative Magazine Spring Story Contest to be an ideal platform for growth and recognition.
Key Highlights:
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Open to all fiction styles, with a focus on powerful storytelling.
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Offers $2,500 and publication in Narrative Magazine.
11. Carve Magazine Raymond
Carver Short Story Contest Carve Magazine’s Raymond Carver Short Story Contest is an esteemed competition named after the iconic short story writer known for his minimalist style. Held annually, the contest is open to writers around the world and accepts literary fiction up to 10,000 words. With a strong editorial voice and a commitment to emotionally resonant storytelling, Carve Magazine looks for work that reflects both depth and precision. Finalists and winners are published in the magazine, which boasts a loyal readership and a strong presence in the literary community.
What makes this contest stand out is the magazine’s dedication to honoring honest, unflinching narratives that engage readers on a personal level. The editorial staff takes care to provide a thoughtful, respectful reading process, and finalists receive extensive exposure through interviews and social media features. The contest also includes feedback options, making it a valuable learning experience for all entrants. Writers drawn to character-driven, emotionally intricate stories will find the Raymond Carver Contest to be an ideal place to showcase their best work.
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Named after Raymond Carver; seeks literary excellence.
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Winners get publication, payment, and exposure in Carve Magazine.
12. Glimmer Train Fiction
Though Glimmer Train Press has since closed, its Fiction Open contest was one of the most prestigious and respected venues for emerging short story writers during its operation. It was designed for writers with unique voices and fresh perspectives, with generous prize money and a deep editorial commitment to supporting literary talent. Stories were often chosen for inclusion in top anthologies, and winners regularly went on to secure book deals or major representation.
The Fiction Open provided a valuable platform for longer short stories, with entries accepted up to 12,000 words unusually generous in the contest world. The emphasis was on substance over flash, rewarding stories with emotional weight and narrative complexity. Many writers considered Glimmer Train a formative step in their careers, and its legacy continues to influence the landscape of literary contests. Although the contest is no longer running, its standards and influence live on in other publications inspired by its success.
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Focused on short fiction of up to 12,000 words.
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Though now closed, it was historically a major venue for emerging writers.
13. Ploughshares Emerging
Writer’s Contest Ploughshares, one of the most acclaimed literary journals in the U.S., offers the Emerging Writer’s Contest as a way to spotlight voices that haven’t yet published a full-length book. Open to writers of fiction, nonfiction, and poetry, the contest offers publication in Ploughshares and a substantial cash prize. Judges are drawn from the ranks of well-respected writers and editors, and the competition is fierce but rewarding. Winning this contest can mark a major milestone in a writer’s career, opening the door to further opportunities and readership.
The fiction portion of the contest focuses on pieces that showcase strong character development, thoughtful structure, and emotional resonance. Ploughshares is known for its literary quality, and being selected means your work stands out among hundreds of submissions. Entrants receive the benefit of exposure to a deeply engaged editorial staff and a community of readers who value storytelling at its finest. It’s a prestigious opportunity to be recognized by one of the industry’s gold-standard publications.
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For writers without a published book.
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Offers $2,000 and publication in Ploughshares.
Best Tools for Focused Short Story Preparation
Participating in short story contests requires not only talent and dedication but also a focused and consistent writing practice. Whether you're drafting a slice-of-life vignette, perfecting a twist ending, or exploring an experimental narrative style, staying in the writing flow is essential. Writers often face digital distractions, looming deadlines, and creative fatigue especially when contest guidelines challenge them to be both innovative and precise in limited word counts.
That’s whereFreewritedevices come in as an ideal support tool for serious writers. Designed by Astrohaus specifically for writing without distractions, Freewrite offers a streamlined drafting experience. With an E Ink™ display that’s easy on the eyes, a mechanical keyboard that provides tactile feedback, and automatic cloud syncing to keep work safe, these devices allow writers to stay immersed in their process. Whether you're developing a new story for a contest or building a sustainable daily writing habit, Freewrite helps you concentrate on what matters most: crafting your best work with clarity and purpose.
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
If you're serious about improving your writing, short story contests are a great place to begin. They offer structure, feedback, and the chance for recognition all elements that can fuel your growth as a writer. And when you're ready to take your craft even further, consider tools that support distraction-free writing like those from Freewrite. Devices such as the Smart Typewriter, Traveler, and Alpha are designed to help writers focus deeply, stay productive, and create with clarity.
