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10 Best Free Plagiarism Checkers | Accurate & Reliable Tools

Posted on November 13, 2025November 13, 2025 by Tanvi Sarnaik

Whether you’re a student, teacher, or content creator, you must know how to check plagiarism online. But which tool should you use? We have the answer: A list of the ten best free plagiarism checkers of 2025!

While plagiarism is a serious ethical problem, its repercussions are different for different people. We’ve accounted for this while listing free plagiarism detectors. So, some tools on the list offer citation support while others detect AI content and API integration. But let’s not waste any more time!

Achieve excellence with a thorough plagiarism check and editing!

Here are the ten best free plagiarism checkers of 2025:

Grammarly Plagiarism Checker
QuillBot Plagiarism Checker
PlagiarismDetector.net
Scribbr Plagiarism Checker
Small SEO Tools Plagiarism Checker
Duplichecker
Editpad Plagiarism Checker
EasyBib Plagiarism Checker
Copyleaks
Quetext

Let’s see the pros and cons of each one.

#1 Grammarly Plagiarism Checker

Grammarly’s plagiarism checker is renowned for its accuracy and integration with their powerful writing assistant. It checks texts against billions of web pages and ProQuest’s academic databases.

Grammarly’s online plagiarism checker for free gives detailed plagiarism reports with a similarity percentage and links to sources. It also offers comprehensive grammar and spell checks as well as style and tone adjustments.

Pros:

Highly accurate plagiarism detection
Protects your data

Cons:

Only 10,000 words in the free version

#2 QuillBot Plagiarism Checker [$8.33/Month]

QuillBot not only provides plagiarism checking but also offers paraphrasing tools to help refine and improve your writing. If you’re using the plagiarism tool for academic purposes, it also highlights missing citations. The catch is, you have to pay a subscription fee to use it.

The tool accepts a variety of file types including .txt, .pdf, .docx, and .html. It offers instant plagiarism reports and analysis. If you want to save reports, you can also create an account with them.

Pros:

It supports more than 100 languages.
Workplaces can get a cheaper price if they place more than five orders.

Cons:

You’ll have to pay $19.95 if you’re not on an annual plan.

#3 PlagiarismDetector.net

PlagiarismDetector.net offers a straightforward and user-friendly interface that provides quick and reliable plagiarism checks. You can upload a URL or file to check plagiarism online, so you can skip the copy/paste hassle!

The plagiarism detector produces authentic results in real-time without flagging unreasonable duplication. They employ “deep search” technology to achieve this. They have three paid plans available for instructors or other professionals who need to scan more than 25,000 words per month.

Pros:

It supports multiple languages including Spanish, German, and French.
You can give feedback.

Cons:

It supports only 1,000 words in the free version.
There are ads and pop-ups on the page.

Also read: Top 10 Essay Editing Services

#4 Scribbr Plagiarism Checker

Quite popular among students, Scribbr has partnered with Turnitin to offer a highly accurate plagiarism checker. The tool scans your writing against a large database of scholarly articles to produce a detailed similarity report. Their database includes 99 billion web pages and 8 million publications!

The detector offers live chat with plagiarism experts and an option for professional feedback. It supports over 20 languages including Dutch, Portuguese, and Italian.

Pros:

The tool tells the domain, database, and the number of matching words for each source.
It scans your text for spelling and grammar errors.

Cons:

It’s much more expensive; and charges a per-use rate of at least $19.95.

#5 Small SEO Tools Plagiarism Checker

This free plagiarism checker tool is part of a larger suite of free SEO tools. It’s particularly popular among bloggers and freelance writers. It offers sentence-level results with the sources flagged.

The plagiarism checker supports documents in multiple languages. You can check for plagiarism free of cost, but there’s a limit of 1,000 words per use, which isn’t ideal. It’s also prone to a little lag and takes time to produce the plagiarism report.

Pros:

Completely free
Has a WordPress plugin

Cons:

Intrusive ads on the page
May report false positives

#6 Duplichecker [$5/ Week]

Duplichecker has both, a plagiarism checker online for free and a paid version. It’s ideal for quick checks. It includes a grammar checker, which is an added benefit. The tool supports multiple file formats such as .tex, .txt, .doc, .docx, .odt, .pdf, and .rtf.

Interestingly, this tool offers a “Make it Unique” option that helps you rephrase your writing to avoid plagiarism detection. While this feature won’t be useful for students, it’s a lifesaver for content writers and marketers!

Pros:

Differentiates duplicate and unique phrases
Supports seven languages

Cons:

Has a daily usage limit of 1,000 words
Occasionally misses some sources

Also read: How to Avoid Plagiarism (10 Effective Strategies!)

#7 Editpad Plagiarism Checker

Editpad’s plagiarism checker for students can be used for free. This tool’s robust detection algorithms use deep search and ProQuest technology to detect plagiarism quickly. The tool, along with others on the platform such as Sentence Expander and Thesis Statement Generator, can be quite handy for students.

Editpad Plagiarism Checker supports both text and URL input. While the tool is easy to use, it’s probably not ideal for any heavy lifting. If students, teachers, or bloggers need a quick plagiarism detector for free, this one works best.

Pros:

Supports various file formats such as DOC, DOCX, TXT, and PDF
User-friendly and to-the-point

Cons:

Has a limit of 1,000 words
Ads can be distracting

#8 EasyBib Plagiarism Checker

EasyBib offers a comprehensive tool that not only checks for plagiarism but also helps with proper citation, making it ideal for students and educators. This plagiarism detector isn’t free, but it comes with unlimited grammar, citation, and formatting checks.

You can paste text or import papers from your computer and Google Drive to check for plagiarism online. The plagiarism tool is great at catching accidental plagiarism. If you’re looking for an advanced plagiarism checker that also checks grammar, spelling, and citations, this one is it!

Pros:

Unlimited access to the Chegg citation generator
Offers detailed feedback on plagiarism
Has a library of educational resources

Cons:

Requires a paid subscription
Can be slow with large documents

Also read: Top 10 Editing & Proofreading Services of 2024

#9 Copyleaks [$8.99/Month]

Copyleaks uses advanced AI and machine learning technologies to detect plagiarism in over 100 languages. It detects multiple forms of paraphrasing, performs image-based text plagiarism, and exposes attempts to deceive detection software. It’s used by universities and SEO firms alike, which speaks for its versatility.

The Copyleaks plagiarism detector tool also offers cloud computing support and API access for developers. It generates comprehensive PDF reports and offers “recurring scans” that protect your work from plagiarism.

Pros:

20 pages per month for free
AI content detection
Scalability for businesses and institutions

Cons:

Complex interface for new users
Can be slow, taking 2–4 minutes to check 500 words

#10 Quetext [$8.80/Month]

While Quetext’s free online plagiarism checker tool isn’t very convenient, the upgrade is perfect for a student writing their dissertation. It lets you check 100,000 words per month and offers citation support. The tool does a contextual analysis of your writing while flagging plagiarism.

The plagiarism tool combines deep search technology with a wide database consisting of 35 billion websites, 20 million books, and 1 million journals. It is easy to use for students and supports multiple languages including French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, German, Arabic, and Russian.

Pros:

Website citation generator and citation assistant
Lets you pause your subscription

Cons:

Allows only 500 words in the free version

Whether it’s academic integrity, content creation, or SEO enhancement, each tool we’ve listed offers unique features for different users. We hope this list of the ten best free plagiarism checkers helps you find the right one!

Remember, while these tools provide a great first line of defense against plagiarism, human expertise is invaluable. For that professional edge, consider PaperTrue’s expert editing and proofreading services. Our experts will refine and perfect your documents, ensuring they’re completely plagiarism-free!

Here are some more useful resources for you:

What is Syntax in Writing: Definition and Examples

Posted on November 10, 2025November 10, 2025 by Tanvi Sarnaik

As a writer, you must have come across terms such as ‘syntax’ and ‘semantics’, which are important aspects of the writing process and necessary to produce a clean, well-written document.

Are you confused as to what syntax is and how to use it? Let our article function as a practical guide to help you understand the meaning and use of syntax in writing.

Have You Used Syntax Effectively in Your Manuscript? Check With Experts! Get Started

What is syntax in writing?

To put it very simply, syntax is the proper arrangement of words in a sentence to give it coherence and meaning. It is considered a component of grammar, which is the entire system of using a language correctly. It also works hand-in-hand with semantics, which is the use of logic in language, and ensuring the relationships between the words and phrases used make sense.

Syntax is an essential part of writing—the arrangement of words in a sentence makes a great impact on the clarity, tone, and meaning of a sentence.

An example of the incorrect use of syntax is as follows: She only wants to eat cake. Here, the meaning is unclear—does she only want to eat cake, or does she want to eat only cake, and nothing else? In this manner, the choice of word placement is very important when it comes to conveying the meaning of the sentence, and the incorrect use of syntax could lead to major communication errors.

Basic rules of English syntax

Syntax is the backbone of effective communication. Here are some basics you need to know:

1. Subject-verb order and agreement: Usually, subjects come first, followed by verbs, and they must ‘agree’ with each other—a singular subject means a singular verb, and a plural subject means a plural verb.

2. One idea per sentence: Keep sentences focused on a single main idea for clarity.

3. Adverbs and adjectives: Adjectives must be placed before the nouns they modify, while adverbs either precede or follow verbs.

4. Subordinate clauses: Dependent clauses are attached to independent clauses with the help of subordinating conjunctions like if, although, and because, or relative pronouns such as who, which, and that.

Also Read: Top 10 Writing Tips from Famous Authors

Core syntactic patterns (with examples)

Having a clear idea about core syntactic patterns and how they work will help you construct sentences and convey meaning more effectively. Here are the major pointers to keep in mind:

Subject → Verb (SV)

The most basic sentence pattern shows a subject performing a verb. The verb is intransitive and doesn’t need an object to complete its meaning.

E.g.

She writes.

Subject → Verb → Direct Object (SVO)

This syntactic pattern requires an object to add detail to the verb performed by the subject. The verb here is transitive and needs an object to complete its meaning.

E.g.

She built a bookshelf.

Subject → Verb → Subject Complement (Linking Verbs)

The subject is connected to a subject complement using a linking verb like seem, be, or become, which describes the subject.

E.g.

He is a writer. (noun complement)

The grass is green. (adjective complement)

Subject → Verb → Adverbial Complement

The adverbial complement completes the meaning of the verb by providing extra detail, such as time, place, or manner. Removing them leaves the sentence looking incomplete.

E.g.

The meeting happened in the morning.

Subject → Verb → Indirect Object → Direct Object (SVIDO)

This pattern uses an indirect object (receiver) and a direct object (what is given).

E.g.

I sent my mother a letter.

Subject → Verb → Direct Object → Object Complement (SVOC)

An object complement is used, which provides further information about the object.

E.g.

She painted the house yellow.

Subject → Verb → Direct Object → Adverbial Complement (SVDOAC)

Here, the direct object is followed by an adverbial complement whose role is to complete the meaning of the verb. It tells us where, when, or how the action occurred.

E.g.

She placed her glass on the nightstand.

Sentence structures you’ll actually use

Mastering sentence structures can elevate your writing. Here are the different types of sentences:

1. Simple sentences: In a simple sentence, one independent clause conveys a single, straightforward idea.

E.g., The sun sets in the west.

2. Compound sentences: A compound sentence is essentially made of two shorter sentences joined by a conjunction (and, but, or) or a semicolon.

E.g., I wanted to go out, but it started raining.

3. Complex sentences: Complex sentences are those that use subordination (if, although, because) to add further nuance.

E.g., Because it was her birthday, I baked her a cake.

4. Compound-complex sentences: Compound-complex sentences mix sentence structures to create longer, more impactful sentences.

E.g., I put on my shoes to go out, but I saw it was raining, so I took them off.

Style tip: Use different sentence structures to avoid monotony and to maintain an engaging rhythm.

Syntax vs. related concepts

Here’s how syntax differs from related concepts such as grammar, diction, and semantics:

1. Syntax vs. grammar: Grammar encompasses all the rules that govern the functioning of a language, whereas syntax deals with word order and sentence structure.

2. Syntax vs. diction: Diction refers to word choice, whereas syntax deals with word order.

3. Syntax vs. semantics: Semantics deals with the meanings of words and languages, whereas syntax deals with the order of words and sentence structure.

To put it simply, syntax works well with grammar, diction, and semantics to provide a strong and coherent language framework.

What are syntax errors and how to fix them

Syntax errors can ruin even the best writing. Some common errors are as follows:

1. Fragments and run-ons: Incomplete sentences or comma splices can ruin the flow of your sentence. To fix this, add punctuation marks or split the sentence into two.

E.g., I went to the shop and bought soap. → I went to the shop. I bought soap.

2. Misplaced modifiers: Misplaced words or clauses can confuse readers. Reordering them can improve the clarity of your writing.

E.g., Having studied all night, the test was easy → Having studied all night, I found the test easy.

3. Faulty parallelism: Inconsistent sentence structure can make for an irritating read. Instead, use parallelism for improved sentence flow.

E.g., I love drawing, painting, and to sculpt → I love drawing, painting, and sculpting.

4. Ambiguous word order: Misplacing words can lead to ambiguity in the sentence. Make sure to position them such that your meaning is clear.

E.g., I only eat dinner → I eat only dinner.

Quick fixes: Insert punctuation marks, reorder clauses, split the sentence, or add subordination to avoid syntax errors.

Also Read: How to Write Cliffhangers that Keep Readers Hooked!

Syntax in literature (how authors use it for effect)

Syntax is a useful tool for authors looking to make an impact. Here are some commonly employed uses of syntax that create memorable writing:

1. Parallelism, antithesis, and chiasmus

The creation of memorable patterns using syntactical tools like parallelism, antithesis, and chiasmus makes for highly quotable writing.

I. Parallelism: The use of consistent grammatical structure for related ideas.

E.g.. He came, he saw, he conquered.

II. Antithesis: The use of opposing ideas in a single sentence.

E.g.. “We must learn to live together as brothers, or perish together as fools.” – Martin Luther King Jr.

III. Chiasmus: The inversion of the grammatical structure of a clause for added emphasis and effect.

E.g.. “Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.” – John F. Kennedy.

2. Emphasis by fronting, inversion, and end focus

I. Fronting is moving an element to the beginning of a sentence for impact, eg. The cruise will start in 15 minutes. (Emphasis on ‘the cruise’.)

II. Inversion refers to reversing the order of the subject and verb, eg, Original: He had never seen such a beautiful view.

Inversed: Never had he seen such a beautiful view.

III. End focus refers to placing important information at the end of the sentence for increased impact, eg. The dog is sleeping in the kennel. (Emphasis on where the dog is sleeping.)

3. Tone and pace

Switching up tone and pace by interspersing long and short sentences creates an interesting reading rhythm and avoids monotony. Eg. I am the youngest child of my family. I was born rather late. My siblings—both of them—are considerably older than I am. I am spoiled in comparison.

Syntax in writing examples (mini clinic)

Here are some examples of how to use syntax correctly to elevate your writing:

1. Clarity pass: If something seems ambiguous, rewrite it to increase clarity.

E.g.,

Ambiguous sentence: The young men and women attended a ball. (It is not clear if only the men or both the men and women are young.)

Rewrite: The young men and young women attended the ball.

2. Style pass: Using the same sentence structure throughout a passage creates a boring and monotonous read. Switching up sentence structure improves the flow of the passage.

E.g.,

Monotonous passage: Bob was an ambitious builder. He had taken up many projects. He was successful and rich.

Rewrite: Bob was an ambitious builder. His many successful projects had made him rich.

3. Emphasis pass: Move key pieces of information to positions of stress to increase their impact and avoid them slipping the reader’s notice.

E.g.,

Lack of emphasis: The recent jewel heist at the Louvre shocked the world. The thieves made away with jewels that had belonged to royalty.

Rewrite: The recent jewel heist at the Louvre—resulting in the disappearance of jewels that had once belonged to royalty—shocked the world.

Practical tips to improve your syntax today

In addition to the technical tips provided above, here are some practical tips that will help you improve your syntax today:

1. Read your writing aloud to catch any places that sound clunky or lack clarity—by acting as your own first audience, you can further hone your work before you send it out into the world!

2. Use one idea per sentence to avoid long, clunky blocks of text that your audience is not going to read. This way, you can keep your paragraphs sleek, compact, and engaging.

3. Use active voice as much as possible for brevity and clarity. Using passive voice is like taking the long route when something can be explained in much simpler terms.

4. Place new or important information at the end to add weight and pack a punch to your write-up—otherwise, the reader’s attention tends to peter off by the time they cross the halfway mark.

5. Create parallel lists and balanced, corresponding pairs when drawing comparisons for easier understanding, eg, not only abc, but xyz also performs this function.

Now that you have the basics of syntax in place, go put your writing skills to use and create a phenomenal work of art! We at PaperTrue would be happy to help you check your work to ensure you have used syntax correctly. Happy writing!

Do you enjoy writing? PaperTrue offers expert, hassle-free book self-publishing services that allow you to get your work edited and published by professionals. Check them out!

Here are some more resources that may help you:

Writing Contests 2025: Cash Prizes, Free Entries, and More!

Posted on November 10, 2025December 8, 2025 by Tanvi Sarnaik

Are you a writer looking for an opportunity to showcase your talent? Writing contests are a fantastic way to challenge yourself, gain exposure, and even win prizes. As we move into 2025, there are numerous contests catering to various genres and skill levels. This article will explore some of the top writing contests for 2025, including options that offer the exciting perk of free entry.

Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting, the prospect of entering a writing competition can be both thrilling and a bit daunting. Don’t worry. We’ll cover a range of contests, from those focused on specific genres like poetry, short stories, or flash fiction to those with broader themes.

Publish your writing with expert help! Learn more

Here is a month-by-month list of the best writing contests in 2025:

January 2025

January 2025 kicks off the year with a vibrant mix of writing contests, offering opportunities for poets and short story writers alike. There are also a few free writing contests in 2025 at the very beginning. We’re sure this is going to be a great start to the year for writers!

Poetry contests 2025

Defenestration Lengthy Poem Contest

This poem writing contest 2025 with a free entry, will publish the poetry of the top three finalists on Defenestrationism.net in April. The contest guidelines state that the entries must include line breaks and no prose poems. Winners will be announced on May Day based on fan voting.
Word count: Must be at least 120 lines, excluding the title
Prizes: $300
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 01 January 2025

Colorado Prize for Poetry

This annual poetry contest, hosted by Colorado Review, is open to unpublished book-length poetry manuscripts. The competition welcomes submissions from poets of any nationality who are writing in English. The winning manuscript will be published by the Center for Literary Publishing at Colorado State University. This year’s judge will be a distinguished poet selected by the editors. Entries are read anonymously.
Word count: 48-100 pages
Prizes: $2,500 and publication
Entry fee: $28
Closing date: 14 January 2025

The Bethesda Poetry Contest

This poetry competition is open to both adults and high school students residing in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. As one of the writing contests for high school students in 2025, it offers young writers the chance to gain recognition and publication. Winners will be published on the Bethesda Urban Partnership website and honored at a special event during the Local Writers’ Showcase. The first-place winner will also be featured on The Writer’s Center’s blog and magazine, with additional prizes, including cash awards and a free class and membership to The Writer’s Center.
Word count: No restrictions
Prizes: $350, $250, $150, $75, and $75 for the top high school entry
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 14 January 2025

The 2025 William Matthews Poetry Prize

Poems of any style, theme, or length are welcome. Winners will also be published in Asheville Poetry Review, a prestigious journal featuring renowned writers. This year’s judge, Nickole Brown—Rattle Prize winner and National Endowment for the Arts recipient—will review anonymous manuscripts in the final round.
Word count: 1-3 poems of any length
Prizes: $1000, $250, and publication for the 3rd prize winner.
Entry fee: $20
Closing date: 15 January 2025

Ó Bhéal Five Words International Poetry Competition

From April 2024 to January 2025, every Tuesday at 12 PM (Irish time) for 41 weeks, five words were posted on the competition page. Participants have a week to create and submit poems incorporating all five words. The shortlisted and winning poems are featured in Five Words Vol XVIII, an anthology of five-word poems. The competition has been open to entrants worldwide.
Word count: Maximum 50 lines in length (including line breaks)
Prizes: 750 euros, 500 euros, 250 euros
Entry fee: 5 euros
Closing date: 28 January 2025

Magma Poetry Competition

The Magma Poetry Competition invites poets worldwide. There are two categories: the Judge’s prize and the Editor’s prize. The three prize-winning poems from each category will be published in Magma magazine. Additionally, five special mentions for each category will be recognized, and all winning and commended poems will be published online on the Magma website. Winners and commended poets will be invited to read their poems at a Magma Competition event in Spring 2025.
Word count: Judge’s Prize: 11 to 50 lines; Editors’ Prize: up to 10 lines
Prizes: £1,000, £300, £150
Entry fee: £5 for the first poem, £4 for the second poem, and £3.50 for the third and each subsequent poem
Closing date: 31 January 2025

Short story writing contests 2025

The Iowa Review Awards

This contest accepts submissions in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction. Winning entries and runners-up are published in the December issue of The Iowa Review.
Word count: Up to 25 pages of prose (double-spaced)
Prizes: $1,500, $750
Entry fee: $20
Closing date: 31 January 2025

Story Unlikely Short Story Contest

One of the best free-entry writing contests in 2025, this contest welcomes all genres. Winning stories are published in the monthly issue of Story Unlikely, and the top story may be featured on the website and considered for the annual print magazine.
Word count: Up to 4,000 words (5,000 for paying members)
Prizes: $1,500, $1,000, $500
Entry: Free
Closing date: 31 January 2025

Dandelion Cottage Short Story Contest

This contest is exclusively for students in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, including home-schooled students. There are Junior (middle-grade) and Senior (high school) divisions, making it a great opportunity for those seeking middle school writing contests in 2025. Winning entries are published in the annual U.P. Reader.
Word Count: 500 to 4,000 words
Prizes: Senior Division: $250, $100, $50.
Junior Division: $150, $75, $25.
Winning schools in each division receive a trophy.
Entry Fee: Not stated
Closing Date: 31 January 2025

Also read: Why and How to Use an Author Pen Name: Guide for Authors

Essay contest 2025

Immerse Education Essay Competition

This competition offers students aged 13-18 the chance to win full or partial scholarships to Immerse Education’s academic programs. As part of the writing contests for high school students in 2025, participants choose from a range of questions related to various subjects and submit a 500-word essay. Merit Awards (for essays outside the top 200): £1,000 towards residential programs, £500 towards Online Research Programmes, or £250 towards Group Online Research programs. All the participants will receive a £500 voucher for residential programs (or £250 for select online research programs).
Word count: 500 words
Prizes: 10 winners receive a 100% scholarship.
40 runners-up receive a 75% scholarship.
150 runners-up receive a 50% scholarship.
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 16 January 2025

John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Essay Contest

This contest, sponsored by the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation, challenges U.S. high school students (grades 9-12) to write an essay about an act of political courage by a U.S. elected official who served during or after 1917.
Word count: 700-1,000 words (not including citations and bibliography)
Prizes: $10,000, $3,000, $1,000 each, $100 each
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 17 January 2025

Book writing contests 2025

Exeter Novel Prize (2022)

This prize was for the opening 10,000 words (including a synopsis) of a novel. It is open to all unagented authors, regardless of prior publication status.
Word count: 10,000 words (including a synopsis of no more than 500 words)
Prizes: £1000 and a trophy, £100
Entry fee: £20
Closing date: 1 January 2025

Cai Emmons Fiction Award

This award, offered by Red Hen Press, seeks a “fresh and original story of fiction.”
Word count: Minimum 25,000 words (approximately 150 pages, double-spaced)
Prizes: $5,000 and book publication by Red Hen Press
Entry fee: $25
Closing date: 15 January 2025

Nine Dots Prize: Is Data Failing Us?

From the Authors Publish website, this is a prize that “rewards original thinking in response to contemporary societal issues”. The prize is a book contract.
Word count: a summary response to the set question of up to 3,000 words, and should you win, you will be required to develop this summary into a short book of between 25,000 and 40,000 words.
Prize: $100,000
Entry fee: Not stated
Closing date: January 27, 2025

Mixed writing contests 2025

The DISQUIET Prize

This contest, associated with the DISQUIET International Literary Program in Lisbon, accepts entries in fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. One winner in each genre will be published in a specified online literary outlet. One grand prize winner receives a full scholarship, accommodations, and a travel stipend to attend the DISQUIET program. Genre winners receive a tuition waiver.
Word count: Fiction: ONE short story or novel excerpt, maximum 25 double-spaced pages.
Nonfiction: ONE nonfiction piece or book excerpt, max. 25 double-spaced pages.
Poetry: Up to SIX poems, maximum 10 pages total.
Prizes: Full scholarship, accommodations, and travel stipend to the DISQUIET program in Lisbon. Genre Winners (Fiction, Nonfiction, Poetry): Publication and a tuition waiver for the DISQUIET program. Winners may elect a $1000 cash prize if unable to attend the program.
Entry fee: $15
Closing date: 10 January 2025

Mississippi Review Contests

The Mississippi Review is hosting its annual competition for writers of poetry, fiction, and nonfiction. Three winners, one in each category, will receive a cash prize and have their work published. Submissions are accepted online or by mail.
Word count: Poetry: 3 to 5 poems, not exceeding 10 pages in total. Prose (Fiction and Nonfiction): Between 1,000 and 8,000 words.
Prizes: Each of the three winners (one in poetry, one in fiction, and one in nonfiction) will be awarded $1,000 and publication in the Mississippi Review.
Entry fee: $16
Closing date: 1 January 2025

Also read: How To Write Better Letters In Your Novel

February 2025

February 2025 features a range of poetry contests, including opportunities for both established and emerging poets and even a contest specifically for high school students in Michigan. There are also significant awards for book-length poetry manuscripts and various genres.

Poetry contests 2025

Erskine J. Poetry Prize (Smartish Pace)

The Erskine J. Poetry Prize is an annual contest hosted by Smartish Pace. This competition welcomes submissions from all poets, with a chance for publication even if your work doesn’t win the top prize. All poems entered are automatically considered for inclusion in a forthcoming issue of the journal, making it a valuable opportunity for exposure.
Word count: 3 poems per entry
Prizes: $200 (first place). The top three poets and finalists (usually about 10) are published
Entry fee: $10
Closing date: 1 February 2025

Michael Waters Poetry Prize (University of Southern Indiana)

The Michael Waters Poetry Prize is a prestigious award given annually for a full-length poetry collection. This contest, judged by a renowned poet (Monica Youn in 2025), offers a significant cash prize and publication by SIR Press. It’s a major opportunity for poets seeking to publish their first or subsequent book.
Word count: Book-length collection (not specified)
Prizes: $6,000 and publication by SIR Press
Entry fee: $35 (50% discount for currently enrolled graduate students)
Closing date: 3 February 2025

Donald Hall Prize for Poetry

The Donald Hall Prize for Poetry, part of the AWP Award Series, seeks outstanding book-length poetry manuscripts. This prize, judged by a distinguished poet (Honorée Fanonne Jeffers in 2025), offers a substantial cash award and publication with the University of Pittsburgh Press. It’s a significant opportunity for poets to gain recognition and reach a wider audience.
Word count: 48 pages minimum
Prizes: $5,500 and publication by the University of Pittsburgh Press
Entry fee: $30 for non-members, $20 for AWP members
Closing date: 28 February 2025

Short story writing contests 2025

The Short(er) Fiction Prize (American Short Fiction)

American Short Fiction magazine presents The Short(er) Fiction Prize, a contest focused on very short stories. Judged by Tony Tulathimutte in 2025, the prize seeks exceptional fiction under 1,500 words. The winner receives a cash prize and publication, and all entries are considered for publication.
Word count: 1,500 words or fewer. Up to two stories can be included per entry.
Prizes: $1,000 and publication in American Short Fiction.
Entry fee: $18
Closing date: 1 February 2025

Jim Baen Memorial Short Story Award (Baen Books & National Space Society)

The Jim Baen Memorial Short Story Award is a unique contest focused on science fiction stories about manned space exploration. Co-sponsored by Baen Books and the National Space Society, the contest honors the memory of Jim Baen and celebrates the role of science fiction in inspiring real-world scientific advancement. The winning story is featured on the Baen Books website.
Word count: No more than 8,000 words.
Prizes: Publication on Baen Books website, payment at professional rates (.08/word), engraved award, free entry to the 2025 International Space Development Conference, and a year’s membership in the National Space Society.
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 1 February 2025

$1000 for 1000 Words Creative Writing Contest (BlueFire)

The $1000 for 1000 Words Creative Writing Contest, sponsored by The Leyla Beban Young Authors Foundation, challenges young writers in grades 6-12 to craft a story in exactly 1,000 words. This unique constraint encourages precision and creativity. There are two grand prizes awarded, one for grades 6-8 and another for grades 9-12.
Word count: Exactly 1,000 words (excluding title).
Prizes: $1,000, $100 prizes, $50
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 1 February 2025

Essay contest 2025

Global Essay Competition (St. Gallen Symposium)

The St. Gallen Symposium Global Essay Competition is a free essay writing contest in 2025 that invites graduate and postgraduate students to share their perspectives on a pressing global issue. The competition offers a unique opportunity: the top 100 entrants are invited to attend the St. Gallen Symposium in Switzerland, an important forum for cross-generational dialogue.
Word count: Maximum 2,100 words (excluding abstract, bibliography, and footnotes).
Prizes: Top 100 entrants attend the St. Gallen Symposium (all expenses paid). Top three essays split a CHF 20,000 prize
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 1 February 2025
Eligibility: Must be enrolled in a graduate or postgraduate program

Book writing contests 2025

3 Mile Harbor Press Book Award

3 Mile Harbor Press is currently accepting submissions for their 8th Annual Book Award. The award is for book-length poetry collections. The winner will receive prize money and publication.
Word count: 48-88 pages
Prizes: $500, the publication of their book as a perfect-bound edition, and 25 author copies.
Entry Fee: $40
Closing Date: 4 February 2025

Haiku Society of America Merit Book Awards (HSA)

The Haiku Society of America’s Merit Book Awards recognize outstanding haiku books published in English. This annual award considers various categories, including individual collections, anthologies, translations, and critical studies. The winning books are added to the HSA Archives at the American Haiku Archives. Two copies of the books published in 2024 must be submitted.
Word count: At least 50 percent of the book must be haiku, senryu, haibun, or prose about these subjects
Prizes: $250, $200, $150
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 15 February 2025

James Alan McPherson Prize for the Novel

The James Alan McPherson Prize for the Novel, offered through the AWP Award Series, recognizes outstanding book-length works of fiction. This prestigious prize includes a significant cash award and publication by the University of Nebraska Press. The 2025 judge is R.O. Kwon.
Word count: at least 60,000 and no more than 110,000 words
Prizes: $5,500 and publication by the University of Nebraska Press
Entry fee: $30 for non-members, $20 for AWP members
Closing date: 28 February 2025

Mixed writing contests 2025

The Mike Resnick Memorial Award (Arc Manor)

The Mike Resnick Memorial Award, presented by Galaxy’s Edge and Dragon Con, celebrates new science fiction authors. This award honors the legacy of Mike Resnick, who was known for mentoring emerging writers. The award specifically seeks science fiction short stories, excluding other speculative fiction genres.
Word count: Up to 7,499 words (short story).
Prizes: Trophy, $250, and publication on the Baen Books website, $100, $50
Entry fee: None
Closing date: 1 February 2025

Short Prose Competition for Emerging Writers (The Writers’ Union of Canada)

The Writers’ Union of Canada’s Short Prose Competition aims to support and promote new Canadian writers. This competition accepts both fiction and nonfiction submissions. The winner receives a cash prize, and the top entries are submitted to Canadian magazines for consideration.
Word count: Up to 2,500 words (fiction or nonfiction).
Prizes: $2,500 for the winner. The winner and eleven finalists’ entries are submitted to three Canadian magazines
Entry fee: $29
Closing date: 17 February 2025

Also read: The Four Main Types of Essay | Quick Summary with Examples

March 2025

March 2025 is a busy month for writers, with a wide array of contests spanning poetry, short stories, essays, and even opportunities for novelists and mixed-genre works. There are options for writers at all levels, from emerging voices to established authors, and covering diverse themes and styles.

Poetry contests 2025

Only Poems

Only Poems runs a monthly themed contest designed to make the editorial process more transparent while creating exciting ways for poetry to shine in the world. Each month features a different theme or form, with March’s theme being “Dreams.” The winning poem receives a featured spot as Poem of the Month, complete with contributors’ and editor’s notes, plus custom artwork. Only Poems is committed to supporting poets financially and welcomes a wide range of poetic styles.
Theme for March: Dreams
Word count: One poem per poet
Prize: $33 for the winner
Entry fee: Free (tip jar and paid feedback options available)
Closing date: 7 March 2025

The Caterpillar Poetry Prize

The Caterpillar Poetry Prize is an annual competition specifically for poems written for children aged 7-11. Established in 2015, this prestigious contest has previously been judged by renowned poets, including John Hegley, Chrissie Gittins, Roger McGough, Michael Morpurgo, and Michael Rosen. Previous winners have gone on to secure book deals and other opportunities in children’s literature.
Word count: No specified line limit
Prizes: €1,000 plus a week at Circle of Misse in France, €500, €250
Entry fee: €15
Closing date: 31 March 2025

Fish Poetry Prize 2025

The Fish Poetry Prize, established in 2006, has become one of the most respected international poetry competitions. Open to poets of any nationality writing in English with no restriction on theme or style, the contest has been previously judged by literary luminaries such as Brian Turner, Leanne O’Sullivan, and Jo Shapcott. The winning poems will be published in the Fish Anthology 2025 and launched during the West Cork Literary Festival.
Word count: 60 lines (title not included)
Prizes: €1,000, Fish Writing Course + €300, €300
Entry fee: €16 first entry, €11 subsequent entries
Closing date: 31 March 2025

Short story writing contests 2025

Stella Kupferberg Memorial Short Story Prize

The Stella Kupferberg Memorial Short Story Prize is a unique writing competition sponsored by the stage and radio series “Selected Shorts,” which celebrates the art of the short story through performances at Symphony Space in New York City. The winning story receives special recognition as it’s performed by a professional actor, broadcast on public radio nationwide, and published by Electric Literature.
Word count: 750 words or less
Prizes: $1,000
Entry fee: $25
Closing date: 7 March 2025

The Bath Short Story Award

The Bath Short Story Award is a prestigious international competition that attracts entries from writers worldwide. Now in its thirteenth year, the award has helped launch the careers of many writers, including Patrick Holloway, whose winning story from 2023 has recently been expanded into a debut novel of the same title. The competition is judged by literary professionals, with the shortlist judges for 2025 being Lucy Luck and Liv Bignold from C & W Literary Agency.
Word count: 2,200 words or under
Prizes: £1,200, £300, £100
Entry fee: £9.00
Closing date: 31 March 2025

Essay contest 2025

Lasker Foundation Essay Contest 2025

The Lasker Essay Contest engages early-career scientists and clinicians from the US and around the globe in a discussion about big questions in biology and medicine. Established by the prestigious Lasker Foundation, this contest aims to build skills in communicating important medical and scientific issues to broad audiences. The winning essays are published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, providing valuable visibility for emerging researchers in the biomedical field.
Word count: 800 words
Prizes: Up to $5,000 (directed to the winner’s university for educational expenses)
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 31 March 2025

Book writing contests 2025

James Jones First Novel Fellowship 2025

The James Jones First Novel Fellowship was established in 1992 to honor the spirit of unblinking honesty, determination, and insight into modern culture exemplified by the writings of James Jones, author of the National Book Award. This 2025 novel writing contest has become a significant opportunity for emerging novelists to gain recognition for their work.
Word count: Two-page synopsis and first 50 pages of novel-in-progress
Prizes: $12,000, $3,000, $2,000
Entry fee: $30 plus
Closing date: 15 March 2025

The International Rubery Book Award 2025

The Rubery Book Award is a prestigious international competition specifically designed for independently published authors and small presses who struggle to compete with traditionally published books. Established to recognize quality and outstanding books from the indie publishing world, the Rubery Prize aims to bring recognition to winning works and heighten authors’ profiles.
Word count: No limits. Self-published books or books published by independent presses.
Prizes: £2,000, £200
Entry fee: Varies by country
Closing date: 31 March 2025

Mixed writing contests 2025

Alex Albright Creative Nonfiction Prize 2025

The Alex Albright Creative Nonfiction Prize is an annual writing competition sponsored by the North Carolina Literary Review (NCLR) and named for its founding editor. This contest specifically seeks creative nonfiction submissions from writers with North Carolina connections, providing a platform for diverse nonfiction voices across the state.
Word count: Up to 7,500 words
Prizes: At least $250 (up to $1,000 depending on the number of pieces selected)
Entry fee: NCLR subscription required instead of fee
Closing date: 1 March 2025

Flash 405 Contest: “Anchor” Edition

Flash 405 is Exposition Review’s multi-genre flash competition that runs bimonthly during their “off” season. For February- March 2025, the theme is “Anchor.” This unique contest accepts submissions across multiple genres, all adhering to the flash format. The competition features a variable cash prize structure where the award amount increases with the number of entries, creating an incentive for wider participation.
Word count: Up to 405 words (fiction/non-fiction), up to 5 lines (poetry), up to 4 pages (stage)
Prizes: Online publication + 40% of all entry fees
Entry fee: $5 per submission
Closing date: 5 March 2025

Jabberwock Review’s Nancy D. Hargrove Editors’ Prize

The Nancy D. Hargrove Editors’ Prize is a prestigious annual contest sponsored by the Jabberwock Review literary journal from Mississippi State University. This competition offers both fiction and poetry categories, providing opportunities for writers in multiple genres. All entrants receive a one-year subscription to the journal, and the winners are featured prominently in a future issue, gaining valuable exposure in the literary community.
Word count: One short story of any length (fiction), 1-3 poems (poetry)
Prizes: $500 and publication for each winner (one in fiction, one in poetry)
Entry fee: $15 (includes journal subscription)
Closing date: 15 March 2025

April 2025

April 2025 is a thrilling month for poets and writers, with multiple prestigious contests offering opportunities to showcase creativity and win significant prizes. From humorous poetry to themes of health and medicine.

Poetry contests 2025

Wergle Flomp Humor Poetry Contest

This free poem-writing contest recognizes humorous poems. This writing contest, judged by Jendi Reiter with Lauren Singer’s assistance, welcomes poets of all ages. You can submit either unpublished or previously published poems, as long as they’re written in English.
Word count: Up to 250 lines
Prizes: $2,000, $500, $250, 10 Honorable Mentions ($100 each)
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 1 April 2025

Dream Quest One Poetry & Writing Contest

This international contest invites writers of all levels to participate. You can submit a poem on any topic, style, or format for this contest. The goal is to celebrate and highlight the creativity and skill of all participating poets and writers.
Word count: 30 lines or fewer
Prizes: $250, $500
Entry fee: $5 per poem
Closing date: 6 April 2025

Omnidawn Single Poem Broadside Contest

This contest awards $1,000 and 20 broadsides of the winning poem. Poets can submit one to five poems, with entry fees based on the number of submissions. The contest will be judged by Jennifer Hasegawa.
Word count: No specified limit
Prizes: $1,000 and 20 broadsides
Entry fee: $14 (one poem), $17 (two poems), $30 (up to five poems)
Closing date: 16 April 2025

Marsh Hawk Press Poetry Prizes

Manuscripts submitted to the Marsh Hawk Press poetry prize contests undergo an anonymous screening process to ensure fairness and impartiality. Each entry is carefully reviewed by at least two editors from the press before being considered for the final selection. The final judge for the contest is John Keene.
Word count: Manuscript 48–84 pages
Prizes: $1,000
Entry fee: $25 per manuscript
Closing date: 30 April 2025

2025 Peseroff Prize in Poetry

The Peseroff Prize was established to honor poet Joyce Peseroff, recognizing her significant contributions to poetry. The competition welcomes submissions of unpublished poems in any style or form, with no restrictions on theme or subject matter. All entries will be considered for publication, offering poets an opportunity to share their work with a wider audience.
Word count: Up to 3 poems
Prizes: $1,000 and publication in Issue 34
Entry fee: $10
Closing date: 30 April 2025

Short story writing contests 2025

Desperate Literature Short Fiction Prize

This short story competition aims to highlight top short fiction and maximize exposure for winners. Partnering with 14 literary organizations, it offers cash prizes, writing retreats, and opportunities for shortlisted writers to be published in various journals, connect with agents, and showcase their work internationally. Even longlisted writers get a year’s access to The Literary Consultancy’s “Being a Writer” platform.
Word count: Up to 2,000 words
Prizes: €1,500 total, publication, and festival invitations
Entry fee: €20 for the first submission; €10 for additional entries
Closing date: 15 April 2025

Stephen Leacock Student Humorous Short Story Competition

This contest is open to Ontario teens aged 14-19, enrolled in any educational setting. Participants must submit an original funny story in English. The top three winners will be recognized at the Meet the Authors Night on June 20, 2025, during the Leacock Gala Weekend, where they’ll read their entries.
Word count: Up to 1,500 words
Prizes: $1,500, $750
Entry fee: $5 per entry
Closing date: 15 April 2025

Future Scholar Foundation Short Story Competition

This free monthly contest is open to elementary and middle school students. Writers submit stories of 350 words or fewer, based on a creative prompt. Early submissions (before the 15th) receive free personalized feedback, and winners receive Amazon gift cards.
Word count: Up to 350 words
Prizes: $60, $40, $20
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 28 April 2025

Essay contest 2025

Young Family Historians Essay Contest – American Ancestors

This contest is open to students in grades 4–12 across the U.S. and its territories. Students are asked to write an original story about an ancestor who faced and overcame a challenge. The work must be their own and not previously published or submitted elsewhere.
Word count: Grades 4–6: ~500 words
Grades 7–8: ~750 words
Grades 9–12: ~1,000 words
Prizes: $500, $250
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 1 April 2025

ABMF 2025 Past is Prologue Essay Contest

The American Battle Monuments Foundation (ABMF) invites students in three age groups (11–12, 13–15, and 16–18) to write original essays about historical events tied to American military cemeteries or monuments overseas. Participants explore significant moments in history and their relevance today. The students can write an essay on one of the two topics: “The WWII Battle of Midway, June 4–7, 1942” or “A Day in the Life on December 7, 1941, Pearl Harbor.”
Word Count: Ages 11–12: 800–1,000 words
Ages 13–15: 1,200–1,500 words
Ages 16–18: 1,500–1,800 words
Prizes: $10,000, $5,000, $2,500, $1,500
Entry fee: Not mentioned
Closing date: 27 April 2025

WOW! Women on Writing Quarterly Creative Nonfiction Essay Contest

This 2025 writing contest aims to encourage creative nonfiction writing by offering rewarding recognition to participants worldwide, regardless of age. Entries must be true stories written in English but can be told in any creative style, including personal, lyric, hybrid, or other essay forms.
Word count: 200–1,000 words
Prizes: $500, $300, $200, $25 Amazon Gift Card, and publication
Entry fee: $12 ($25 with critique option)
Closing date: 30 April 2025

Book writing contests 2025

WriteMentor 2025 Novel and Picture Book Awards

The Awards are open to global entries in three categories: Picture Books, Children’s books, and Adult fiction. Winners in each category will be chosen by three agents from DHA, a top literary agency, and will receive a cash prize, a 45-minute virtual meeting with the judging agent, and a free one-year membership to WriteMentor’s Hub platform.
Word count: First 3,000 words and a one-page synopsis.
Prizes: £500
Entry fee: £15
Closing date: 1 April 2025

Chief Minister’s Northern Territory History Book Award

This award honors the most important book about Northern Territory history published in the past year. Eligible books must focus on NT history and be written in English or a First Nations language of the region. A panel of experts, including historians and academics, judges the entries, and the winner is revealed at a ceremony held at the NT Library.
Word count: No limit
Prizes: $1,000
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 7 April 2025

Toronto Book Awards

Submissions should have some clear connection to Toronto, like the story’s setting, themes, or subjects, but participants don’t need to live in Toronto to participate. Both fiction and non-fiction books for adults or children are welcome, as long as they capture the essence of the city. Ebooks and digital formats are also accepted.
Word count: No limit
Prizes: $10,000, $1,000
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 30 April 2025

Whistler Independent Book Awards

These awards celebrate outstanding Canadian self-published books in fiction, non-fiction, and children’s categories, with three finalists per category and winners announced at the Whistler Writers Festival. Sponsored by The Writers’ Union of Canada, the awards are open to Canadian citizens or permanent residents who have covered all production costs. Only physical books are eligible—eBooks do not qualify.
Word count: No limit
Prizes: Additional publicity and membership benefits, Certificates, stickers, and inclusion in the Whistler Writers Festival.
Entry fee: $135 plus GST
Closing date: 30 April 2025

Adventure Writers Competition

The Adventure Writers Competition invites writers to submit original, unpublished adventure stories in English. Entries must be family-friendly, focus on adventure (exploration, survival, quests, etc.), and avoid excessive violence or mature themes. Judges evaluate based on creativity, storytelling, and adherence to the adventure genre.
Word count: No limit
Prizes: $1,000 and other promotional opportunities.
Entry Fee: $35
Closing date: 30 April 2025

Mixed writing contests 2025

New Ohio Review Contests

The New Ohio Review hosts an annual writing contest with poetry, short stories, and essays in fiction and non-fiction categories. Submissions must be unpublished and original. Winners in each genre receive $1,500 and publication, while all entries are considered for standard publication.
Word count: Up to 7,500 words or up to three poems.
Prizes: $1,500 and publication
Entry Fee: $22
Closing date: 15 April 2025

Perkoff Prize – The Missouri Review

This tri-genre contest explores themes of health, wellness, and medicine in poetry, fiction, and nonfiction. You can submit multiple pieces at once, but they must be original and related to health or medicine. The submissions must be unpublished pieces. All entries have a chance to be published in print or online.
Word count: Up to 8,500 words or up to 10 pages of poetry
Prizes: $1,000 and publication in The Missouri Review for the best entry in each genre
Entry Fee: $15 USD per entry
Closing date: 15 April 2025

Alberta Champions Student Contest

The 16th annual contest encourages Alberta students in grades 4-9 to learn about and celebrate the province’s pioneers, innovators, and Indigenous leaders. They can create a multimedia project, such as a story, essay, poem, video, or artwork, that highlights their chosen “champion.” Open to all Alberta schools, the contest lets students showcase their creativity while honoring influential Albertans.
Word count: No limit
Prizes: $500 gift card, $350 gift card, $200 gift card, and certificates of recognition
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 17 April 2025

Tadpole Press 100-Word Writing Contest

The Tadpole Writing Contest 2025 challenges writers to create a complete story or poem in exactly 100 words. There’s no theme restriction—just creativity! Submissions can be fiction, nonfiction, or poetry. All entries must be original, unpublished, and in English. Word count is strict—entries over or under 100 words are disqualified.
Word count: 100 words or fewer (including the title)
Prizes: $2,000, Publishing & Marketing Package, Manuscript Assessment Package, Editing Package, Writing Coaching Package, $100
Entry Fee: $15 USD per entry
Closing date: 30 April 2025

May 2025

Poetry contests 2025

Poetry International Prize 2025

Poetry International offers a $1,000 prize and publication for an unpublished poem each year. Submissions should be clear and in a standard font—no fancy formatting or images. The editors will review all entries, and a guest judge will pick the winners and finalists from a shortlist.
Word count: No limit
Prizes: $1,000 and publication in Poetry International
Entry Fee: $15 for up to 3 poems; $3 for each additional poem
Closing date: 1 May 2025

Stan and Tom Wick Poetry Prize

This competition is for poets writing in English who haven’t published a full book of poems. Submissions must be anonymous, with no identifying details in the manuscript. The judge, Pádraig Ó Tuama, will select a winner, and both will give a joint reading at Kent State University.
Word count: Submit a manuscript of 50–70 pages
Prizes: $2,500 and publication of the manuscript by Kent State University Press
Entry Fee: $25
Closing date: 1 May 2025

Atlanta Review Poetry Contest 2025

The Atlanta Review welcomes diverse poetry submissions. The contest requires entries to be submitted via Submittable. All poems are read anonymously, so avoid including your name or address. Additionally, AI-generated poems are not accepted.
Word count: Up to 5 unpublished poems (10 pages max)
Prizes: $1,000 and publication in Atlanta Review
Entry Fee: $16 for up to 5 poems
Closing date: 1 May 2025

Goldsmith Festival Poetry Competition

The rules of this poetry contest state that poems must be original, written in English, and not previously published. All entries will be judged anonymously. The winner will get a chance to recite their poem at the “Poetry at Pallas” event.
Word count: Maximum 70 lines
Prizes: €600, €250, €150
Entry Fee: €10 per entry (up to 3 poems)
Closing date: 4 May 2025

James Laughlin Award

The James Laughlin Award honors a poet’s second book set to be published in the coming year. The winner gets $5,000, a free weeklong stay at The Betsy Hotel in Miami Beach. The winner’s book is sent to around 1,000 members of the Academy of American Poets.
Word count: 48 to 100 pages
Prizes: $5,000
Entry Fee: Free
Closing date: 15 May 2025

Wingword Poetry Competition

This Indian writing competition awards and publishes emerging poets with little to no recognition, open only to Indian citizens and people of Indian origin aged 15 and above. Poems can be submitted in English or Hindi (Main Category).
Word count: No limit
Prizes: ₹50,000 and publication of a poetry book, ₹30,000, ₹20,000, ₹10,000
Entry Fee: ₹1,000 for one poem; ₹2,000 for three poems; ₹3,000 for five poems
Closing date: 31 May 2025

Short story writing contests 2025

Ross Writing Contest – ABA Journal

For the contest, entries must be original and not published before December 1, 2024. Publicly posted content will also be considered as an entry. It will be judged based on creativity, story, legal knowledge, and character depth. The winner will be chosen by the ABA Journal Board of Editors.
Word Count: Up to 5,000 words
Prizes: $5,000
Entry Fee: Free
Closing date: 1 May 2025

F(r)iction Short Story Contest

This contest is looking for bold, original writing that challenges norms and takes creative risks. They want compelling, emotional stories with fresh perspectives that stand out. Submissions must be human-written—no AI-generated work is allowed. The judge for the 2025 edition is Gaël Le Cornec.
Word Count: No limit
Prizes: $1,000 and consideration for publication in F(r)iction
Entry Fee: $15 per story
Closing date: 2 May 2025

Elizabeth Jolley Short Story Prize

This award is a prestigious Australian literary award run by the Australian Book Review. It offers a significant cash prize for the best unpublished short story, celebrating excellence in fiction. The competition is open to both Australian and international writers, with entries judged anonymously. The winner and shortlisted stories are often published in the Australian Book Review.
Word Count: 2,000–5,000 words
Prizes: $6,000, $4,000, $2,500
Entry Fee: $30
Closing date: 5 May 2025

CRAFT Short Fiction Prize

The CRAFT Literary Short Fiction Prize is open to original, unpublished short stories. Submissions are judged blindly, and all entries receive feedback. The contest welcomes diverse voices and experimental styles.
Word Count: 1,000–5,000 words
Prizes: $2,000, $500, $300, and publication
Entry Fee: $20
Closing date: 19 May 2025

Essay contest 2025

The Hon. Constance Baker Motley Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Essay Competition

The Hon. Constance Baker Motley Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Young Member Essay Writing Competition, hosted by the Federal Bar Association, invites young legal professionals to write an essay on promoting DEI in the legal field. The contest encourages fresh perspectives on fostering inclusivity. Winners receive recognition and a cash prize, with submissions judged on originality, clarity, and impact. It’s a great opportunity for emerging lawyers to contribute to meaningful change.
Word Count: 500 words
Prizes: $1,000 and publication in The Federal Lawyer, $500, $250, $100
Entry Fee: Free
Closing date: 9 May 2025

Cambridge Re: think Essay Competition 2025

The Cambridge Research Essay Competition invites high school students to write an essay on one of three prompts related to technology, society, or ethics. Participants must submit original work, with prizes awarded for the best entries. The competition aims to encourage critical thinking and clear writing on important modern issues.
Word Count: 2,000 words (excluding footnotes, bibliography, and references)
Prizes: $150 cash, $100 cash, $50 cash, and scholarships
Entry Fee: Free
Closing date: 10 May 2025

Charles Darwin University Essay Award 2025

The Charles Darwin University Essay Award 2025 is hosted by the Northern Territory Library. They invite submissions of original, unpublished essays on topics related to the Northern Territory’s history, culture, or environment. Open to all Australians, with entries judged on originality, research, and writing quality.
Word Count: 3,000 words
Prizes: $1,000 and NT Writers’ Center membership
Entry Fee: Free
Closing date: 12 May 2025

Book writing contests 2025

Crook’s Corner Book Prize 2025

The Crook’s Corner Book Prize is a literary award for debut novels, meaning only an author’s first novel can qualify. To be eligible, the story must mainly take place in the American South, no matter where the writer lives. Self-published books are allowed as long as they have an ISBN.
Word Count: No limit
Prizes: $5,000
Entry Fee: $35
Closing date: 15 May 2025

Also read: ISBN Guide: What Is an ISBN and How to Get an ISBN

Bath Novel Award 2025

The Bath Novel Award is an international writing competition for unpublished and self-published novelists. It accepts entries across all genres—adult, young adult, and children’s fiction. Selected entries may get feedback from judges. The contest aims to discover talented writers and help them gain exposure in the publishing industry.
Word Count: Submit the first 5,000 words and a one-page synopsis
Prizes: £5,000
Entry Fee: £29.99 per submission
Closing date: 31 May 2025

Restless Books Prize for New Immigrant Writing

This is an annual award for first-time, first-generation immigrant authors. It alternates each year between fiction and non-fiction. Eligible writers must be first-gen immigrants, and submissions must be unpublished, book-length works in English. The contest aims to highlight diverse immigrant voices and experiences.
Word Count: Complete manuscript (Minimum 45,000 words)
Prizes: Publication by Restless Books in paperback, eBook, and audio formats
Entry Fee: $20
Closing date: 31 May 2025

Bridport Prize – Novel Award

The Bridport Prize is a prestigious writing competition for unpublished novels. Open to writers worldwide, it offers a £1,000 top prize, mentorship from The Literary Consultancy, and potential recognition by literary agents. Judges look for compelling storytelling, strong voice, and originality. It’s a great opportunity for emerging authors to gain exposure in the competitive book publishing industry.
Word Count: 20,000 and 70,000 words
Prizes: £1,500 and mentoring from a literary agent, £750
Entry Fee: £30 per submission
Closing date: 31 May 2025

Mixed writing contests 2025

Tom Howard/John H. Reid Fiction & Essay Contest

This contest accepts both short fiction (stories) and nonfiction (essays) on any theme, with no limits on the number of entries per person. Submissions can be previously published or unpublished, and writers of all ages are welcome. The final judge is Mina Manchester, with assistance from Sarah Halper.
Word count: 6,000 words maximum
Prizes: $3,500, $500
Entry Fee: $25 per submission
Closing date: 1 May 2025

Minds Shine Bright Places Writing Competition

The Mind’s Shine Bright writing competition invites writers of all ages to showcase their creativity through poetry, short stories, and essays. With multiple age categories and themes, it offers cash prizes, certificates, and publication opportunities for winners. Submissions are judged on originality, expression, and impact, encouraging participants to share their unique voices.
Word count: Up to 5,000 words (short stories), up to 1,000 words (flash fiction)
Prizes: 1,500 AUD, 500 AUD, 250 AUD, 100–200 AUD
Entry Fee: 15 AUD
Closing date: 31 May 2025

Yeovil Literary Prize

The Yeovil Literary Prize is an annual writing competition open to unpublished and self-published authors, offering cash prizes in categories like novels, short stories, and poetry. It aims to support emerging writers, with past winners achieving publishing deals. Entries are judged anonymously.
Word count: Max. 10,000 words (novel), 2,000 words (short story), max. 40 lines (poetry)
Prizes: £1,350, £625, £450, £275, £250, £150
Entry Fee: £18.50 (novel), £10.50 (short story), £8.00 (poetry)
Closing date: 31 May 2025

June 2025

June 2025 offers a variety of poetry contests, welcoming submissions ranging from single poems and sonnets to full book-length manuscripts.

Poetry contests 2025

Maria W. Faust Sonnet Contest

This contest celebrates traditional and non-traditional sonnets. It is open to poets of all ages and backgrounds. Sonnets may be written in Shakespearean, Petrarchan, Spenserian, or Non-Traditional rhyme schemes.
Word count: 14 lines (iambic pentameter)
Prizes: Over $3,000 in total cash prizes across multiple categories, including Top Four Sonnets, Regional Winners, and Youth Winners
Entry fee: $5 per entry (up to 3 sonnets), Free for Youth and Undergraduate Students
Closing date: 1 June 2025

Poet Hunt Contest – The MacGuffin

This annual poetry contest is open to poets worldwide. Each entry can include up to five poems, judged anonymously. Each entrant will receive one free issue of The MacGuffin.
Word count: Up to 400 lines per poem
Prizes: $500 and publication. Up to two Honorable Mentions: Publication
Entry fee: $15 per entry (up to 5 poems)
Closing date: 15 June 2025

Akron Poetry Prize

This competition, hosted by the University of Akron Press, is open to all poets writing in English. Manuscripts are judged anonymously, and simultaneous submissions are permitted.
Word count: 48-90 pages
Prizes: $1,500 and publication in the Akron Series in Poetry
Entry fee: $25 per manuscript
Closing date: 15 June 2025

42 Miles Press Poetry Award

This annual contest is open to poets worldwide for full-length poetry manuscripts. Both emerging and established poets are encouraged to apply. Simultaneous submissions are allowed.
Word count: 48-120 pages
Prizes: $1,000, publication, and 50 author copies
Entry fee: $25 per manuscript
Closing date: 15 June 2025

Poetry London Prize

This internationally renowned competition is for a single outstanding poem. Entries are open to poets from around the world. Poems must be unpublished and written in English. The prizes will be awarded at the Autumn launch reading in London.
Word count: Maximum 80 lines
Prizes: £5,000, £2,000, £1,000
Entry fee: £10 per poem, £5 per poem (Poetry London subscribers)
Closing date: 30 June 2025

Short story writing contests 2025

Katherine Anne Porter Prize in Short Fiction

This prestigious annual prize, run by the University of North Texas Press, awards a publication and a cash prize to a collection of short fiction. Entries must be a collection of flash fiction or short stories. Stories may have been published in magazines or anthologies, but not in a book-length collection by the author.
Word count: 27,500–50,000 words (100–200 book pages)
Prizes: $1,000 and publication by UNT Press
Entry fee: $25 (fee-free submissions accepted on June 1, 2025, only)
Closing date: 30 June 2025

Cranked Anvil Press Annual Short Story Prize

An annual competition open to short stories of any theme or genre. Writers may submit up to four short stories. Winning stories are published on the Cranked Anvil website and may be chosen for future print anthologies.
Word count: 1,000–2,500 words (not including title)
Prizes: £300 (first), £150 (second), £100 (third); publication online
Entry fee: £6 for one story, £11 for two, £15 for three, £19 for four
Closing date: 30 June 2025

To Hull And Back Humorous Short Story Competition

This unique biennial contest is open worldwide for humorous short fiction. Stories must contain an element of humour and can be previously published. All winners and shortlisted stories are published in a print and Kindle anthology.
Word count: Up to 2,500 words (including the title)
Prizes: £1,000 (first), £200 (second), £100 (third), 3 x £70 (highly commended), 14 x £35 (shortlisted); publication in anthology
Entry fee: £12 for one, £20 for two, £24 for three
Closing date: 30 June 2025

The Moth Short Story Prize

An international competition open to anyone over 16 for original, unpublished short stories. The winning story is published in the Irish Times, and the runners-up online. Judging is anonymous by a single distinguished judge.
Word count: Up to 3,000 words
Prizes: €3,000 (first); a week at Circle of Misse with open travel stipend (second); €1,000 (third); publication in the Irish Times
Entry fee: €15 per story
Closing date: 30 June 2025

Essay contest 2025

Birdcoat Quarterly Editors’ Choice Prize in Essays

This contest is open to any writer in English, awarding publication and cash prizes for essays or flash essays. Submit one full-length essay or up to three flash essays per entry. All work must be previously unpublished.
Word count: Not specified
Prizes: $250 (first), $100 (second), $50 (third); publication in Birdcoat Quarterly
Entry fee: $10 per entry
Closing date: 1 June 2025

JASNA Student Essay Contest

The Jane Austen Society of North America (JASNA) invites students worldwide to compete for scholarships by writing essays on a theme related to Jane Austen’s works. The 2025 theme celebrates the 250th anniversary of Austen’s birth. Students must analyze a recurring word, motif, symbol, or activity used in Austen’s novels, comparing its role in two scenes. The contest is open to high school, college/university, and graduate students.
Word count: 6-8 pages
Prizes: $1,000 (first), $500 (second), $250 (third) scholarships in each division
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 2 June 2025

Write the World Essay Competition

Write the World hosts themed monthly writing competitions for young writers (typically ages 13–19). The June 2025 competition offers a new prompt and the chance for young writers to receive peer and expert feedback before submitting a final draft for judging.
Word count: 400-1000 words
Prizes: $100 (first), publication, and recognition
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 23 June 2025

John Locke Institute Global Essay Prize

This renowned international essay competition is open to students aged 18 and under (with a junior division for those 14 and under). Essays must answer one of the set questions in Philosophy, Politics, Economics, History, Psychology, Theology, or Law. There is also a junior category with its own set of questions. All essays are judged by senior academics from top universities.
Word count: Up to 2,000 words (excluding endnotes and bibliography)
Prizes: $2,000–$5,000 scholarships for category winners; $10,000 scholarship for overall winner; junior and runners-up prizes
Entry fee: Free (late entries allowed for a fee)
Closing date: 30 June 2025

Book writing contests 2025

The Times/Chicken House Children’s Fiction Competition

This prestigious UK-based contest seeks original, unpublished fiction for children aged 7 and up, including YA. Open to unagented writers worldwide, the competition awards a major publishing contract and a cash advance. There is also a special prize for a manuscript with strong TV adaptation potential.
Word count: 30,000 – 80,000 words
Prizes: £10,000, £7,500 advance, publishing contract
Entry fee: £20
Closing date: 2 June 2025

National Book Awards (National Book Foundation)

Widely regarded as one of the most prestigious literary awards in the United States, the National Book Awards honor the best books published by US publishers in five categories: Fiction, Nonfiction, Poetry, Translated Literature, and Young People’s Literature. Authors must be U.S. citizens or primary residents.
Word count: Not mentioned
Prizes: $10,000 for each category winner, $1,000 for each finalist
Entry fee: $135 per title (publisher submission only)
Closing date: 6 June 2025

The Tusculum Review Fiction Chapbook Prize

Hosted by The Tusculum Review, this annual contest alternates genres and in 2025 is open for a single short story (fiction chapbook). The winning manuscript is published as a standalone illustrated chapbook and in the journal, with a launch event in Tennessee.
Word count: 2,000 – 7,000 words
Prizes: $1,500, publication in The Tusculum Review (Volume 21, 2025), and a limited-edition chapbook with original art
Entry fee: $20 per manuscript
Closing date: 15 June 2025

Storytrade Book Awards

These awards celebrate excellence in small press and independent publishing across 70+ categories, including both fiction and nonfiction. Open to indie authors and publishers in North America (USA, Canada, Mexico), with print and ebook formats accepted.
Word count: Not mentioned
Prizes: $1,000 each (Fiction and Nonfiction), medals, stickers, digital seals, and promotion
Entry fee: $75 per category, $60 for each additional category
Closing date: 30 June 2025

Mixed writing contests 2025

Arizona Authors Association Literary Contest 2025

Open worldwide, this contest welcomes both published and unpublished works in multiple genres: poetry, short fiction, nonfiction, novels, plays, and youth categories. Published and “Oldie but Goldie” categories are also included.
Word count: Unpublished poetry (up to 50 lines), short fiction (up to 5,000 words), short nonfiction (up to 5,000 words), novels/novellas/plays (first 25 pages + synopsis)
Prizes: Grand Prize $500; $200, $125, $75, $50 in major categories; $25 for subcategory winners; all winners published in the Arizona Literary Magazine
Entry fee: $50 (non-members), $40 (members)
Closing date: 1 June 2025

Writer’s Digest 94th Annual Writing Competition

This long-running, international competition is open to writers of all experience levels and offers categories for poetry, short stories (genre and literary), memoir/personal essay, children’s/YA, humor, and more. Almost 500 winners are chosen, with a generous top prize and publication opportunities.
Word count: 2,000 words (memoir, nonfiction, children’s/YA); 2,500 (inspirational); 4,000 (short stories, humor); 40 lines (poetry)
Prizes: Grand Prize $5,000 + trip to WD Conference; $1,000 (1st in each category); $500 (2nd); $250 (3rd); additional cash and gift certificates for other places
Entry fee: $30–$35 (prose); $20–$25 (poetry)
Closing date: 2 June 2025

Write By The Sea Literary Festival Competition 2025

Based in Kilmore Quay, Ireland, this boutique festival runs a highly regarded annual competition open to short stories, flash fiction, poetry, and memoir/personal essays. Winners are published and invited to read at the festival.
Word count: Short Story (max 2,500 words), Flash Fiction (max 700 words), Poetry (max 40 lines), Memoir/Personal Essay (max 1,000 words)
Prizes: €500, €300, €200 in each category, publication, and a free festival weekend pass
Entry fee: €10 per entry or €25 for three entries
Closing date: 6 June 2025

Also read: Parts of a Book: A Practical, Easy-to-Understand Guide

July 2025

July brings in a variety of mixed writing contests. Writers, poets, and authors of all kinds can participate in the competitions they like!

Poetry contests 2025

The Barbara Mandigo Kelly Peace Poetry Awards

This annual international contest encourages poets to explore and illuminate positive visions of peace and the human spirit. There are three age categories: Adult, Youth (13–18), and Youth (12 & under).
Word count: Up to 30 lines per poem (up to three poems per entry)
Prizes: $1,000 (adult), $200 (youth 13–18), $200 (youth 12 & under), possible Honorable Mentions
Entry fee: $15 (adult, up to three poems); $5 (youth 13–18); free (youth 12 & under)
Closing date: 01 July 2025

Rattle Poetry Prize

Rattle’s annual contest is open to poets worldwide and offers one of the largest single poem prizes. All poems submitted are also considered for publication in Rattle.
Word count: None
Prizes: $15,000 (first prize), plus ten $500 finalists; all winners published in the winter issue
Entry fee: $25 (includes a one-year subscription to Rattle)
Closing date: 15 July 2025

Blessing the Boats Selections (BOA Editions, Ltd.)

This open reading period spotlights book-length poetry manuscripts by women of color, including cis, trans, and non-binary poets who are comfortable in a space centering women’s experiences. The winner receives book publication, an honorarium, and national distribution.
Word count: 65–120 pages of poetry
Prizes: $2,500 honorarium and publication by BOA Editions in Fall 2027
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 31 July 2025

Fiction Factory Poetry Competition

This international contest accepts poems on any topic, provided they are not discriminatory or promote hate speech. Previously unpublished poems only.
Word count: 40 lines or fewer
Prizes: Cash prizes
Entry fee: £5 for one poem, £9 for two, £12 for three
Closing date: 31 July 2025

Short story writing contests 2025

HG Wells Short Story Competition

This international contest is open to all writers and offers categories for both under-22 and over-21. Stories must be original, unpublished, and between 1,500 and 5,000 words. Entries are judged blind, and selected stories are published in the annual anthology.
Word count: 1,500–5,000 words
Prizes: Cash prizes (amount varies by category), publication in an anthology
Entry fee: Free for under 22s; £10 (over 21s); £5 (students 22+ with ID)
Closing date: 8 July 2025

Stony Brook Short Fiction Prize

Open to full-time undergraduate students enrolled at colleges and universities in the United States and Canada, this contest welcomes stories up to 7,500 words. The prize encourages submissions from students with Asian backgrounds but is open to all.
Word count: Up to 7,500 words
Prizes: $1,000 and a scholarship to the 2025 Southampton Writers Conference; publication consideration in The Southampton Review
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 14 July 2025

Anthology Short Story Competition

Run by Anthology magazine, this competition is open worldwide with no restrictions on theme or style. Entries must be original, unpublished, and in English. Stories are judged anonymously, and there is no age limit.
Word count: Up to 1,500 words
Prizes: €1,000 (first), €250 (second), €150 (third), publication in Anthology magazine
Entry fee: €18 per entry
Closing date: 31 July 2025

Essay contest 2025

George Watt Essay Contest

This annual contest honors Lincoln vet George Watt and invites essays from students worldwide on topics related to the Spanish Civil War, anti-fascist struggles of the 1920s–30s, or the international volunteers who supported the Spanish Republic. Essays are judged on originality, research quality, and argumentation. There are three categories: Graduate, Undergraduate, and Pre-Collegiate.
Word count: 3,500–12,500 words (Graduate), 2,000–10,500 words (Undergraduate), max 25 pages (Pre-Collegiate)
Prizes: up to $1,000 (Graduate), up to $500 (Undergraduate), up to $250 (Pre-Collegiate)
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 5 July 2025

Berggruen Prize Essay Competition

The annual Berggruen Prize Essay Competition is designed to foster innovative thinking and cross-cultural perspectives on fundamental philosophical questions. The competition awards one prize for an essay in English and one in Chinese. Submissions should present original, compelling ideas in the tradition of major public intellectuals, written for a serious but non-academic audience.
Word count: None
Prizes: $50,000 (English-language winner), $50,000 (Chinese-language winner); publication and award ceremony
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 31 July 2025

WOW! Women on Writing Quarterly Creative Nonfiction Essay Contest

This global contest invites creative nonfiction essays on any topic or style, from personal to lyric or hybrid forms. Entries must be true stories told creatively, with a focus on originality and writing quality. Prizes are awarded to the top 20 entries, and critiques are available for an additional fee.
Word count: 200–1,000 words
Prizes: $500 (first), $300 (second), $200 (third); $25 Amazon gift card (7 runners-up); publication and CreateWriteNow Store gifts for all winners
Entry fee: $12 per essay ($25 with critique option)
Closing date: 31 July 2025

Book writing contests 2025

North Street Book Prize (Winning Writers)

An international contest for self-published and hybrid-published books, the North Street Book Prize accepts works in eight categories, including mainstream/literary fiction, genre fiction, creative nonfiction & memoir, poetry, children’s picture book, middle grade, graphic novel & memoir, and art book. Print and ebooks are accepted, and all entrants receive brief judge commentary.
Word count: Up to 200,000 words
Prizes: $10,000 Grand Prize; $1,000 top category winners; $500 category honorable mentions
Entry fee: $85 per book
Closing date: 1 July 2025

Discover Book Prize

This opportunity, hosted on Submittable, is for authors with a finished, unpublished manuscript in any genre. The winning author receives publication and a cash prize.
Word count: 48-90 pages
Prizes: $1,500 and 20 author copies
Entry fee: $25
Closing date: 7 July 2025

Simon & Schuster UK New Chapter Award

The New Chapter Award is open to unpublished and unagented writers in the UK and Ireland from underrepresented backgrounds, offering the opportunity to have a full-length manuscript considered by publishing professionals. The winner receives a publishing contract and mentoring.
Word count: None
Prizes: Publishing contract with Simon & Schuster UK; mentoring and editorial feedback
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 31 July 2025

Mixed writing contests 2025

International Voices in Creative Nonfiction Competition

This annual competition is open worldwide to unpublished creative nonfiction manuscripts, with a special invitation to marginalized voices. Narrative manuscripts should be 50,000–80,000 words; experimental manuscripts should be at least 100 pages. Judging is blind, and the winner receives a cash prize and publication.
Word count: 50,000–80,000 words (narrative); at least 100 pages (experimental)
Prizes: $1,000 and publication by Vine Leaves Press (2027); runners-up considered for publication
Entry fee: $25
Closing date: 1 July 2025

The Letter Review Prize

Awarded quarterly, this international contest offers prizes in short fiction (up to 5,000 words), nonfiction (up to 5,000 words), poetry (up to 70 lines), and book-length works (novels, novellas, short story collections, poetry collections, nonfiction books). All genres and styles are welcome. Multiple winners are selected per category, all considered for publication and Pushcart Prize nomination.
Word count: up to 5,000 words (Short fiction/nonfiction), up to 70 lines (Poetry)
Prizes: $1,000 prize pool per category (2–4 winners share); publication; consideration for anthologies
Entry fee: $15 (Poetry), $20 (short story), $25 (books)
Closing date: 1 July 2025

Unleash Press Work-in-Progress Award

This annual contest supports writers working on a book-length project in any genre—fiction, nonfiction, poetry, or hybrid. Submit up to 25 pages plus short essay responses about your creative vision and intended audience. The winner receives a cash prize, editorial feedback, coaching, and a feature in Unleash Lit.
Word count: Up to 25 pages (sample from your manuscript)
Prizes: $500, editorial feedback, coaching, and an excerpt/interview in Unleash Lit
Entry fee: $35
Closing date: 15 July 2025

Also read: What Is an Appendix in a Paper?

August 2025

August has a mix of writing contests for students as well as adults. There are options for writers at all levels, from emerging voices to established authors.

Poetry contests 2025

The Coniston Prize (Radar Poetry)

The Coniston Prize is an annual award recognizing an exceptional group of poems by a woman writing in English. Submit 3–5 previously unpublished poems, intentionally cohesive in theme, style, or voice. Judged anonymously and open to all poets who identify as women.
Word count: 3–5 poems, maximum 10 pages total
Prizes: $1,000 (winner); $175 (up to 10 finalists); all published in the October Coniston Prize Issue
Entry fee: $20 per submission (free for BIPOC poets June 1–8, 2025)
Closing date: 1 August 2025

20 Syllable Poem Contest (FanStory)

This unique contest challenges poets to write a poem that has exactly 20 syllables. Any format is allowed, and all submissions receive feedback.
Word count: Exactly 20 syllables
Prizes: $100
Entry fee: See contest page for details
Closing date: 24 August 2025

Oxford Poetry Prize

The prestigious Oxford Poetry Prize is awarded annually for a single poem in English. Open internationally to poets aged 18 and over, this competition is judged blind and welcomes previously unpublished poems only.
Word count: Up to 50 lines (titles, blank lines, subtitles, dedications, and epigraphs are not counted)
Prizes: £1,000 (first), £200 (second), £100 (third); publication for winners in Oxford Poetry
Entry fee: £10 per poem
Closing date: 31 August 2025

Short story writing contests 2025

Sydney Hammond Memorial Short Story Writing Competition

This annual Australian contest is open worldwide and invites short stories on the theme “Lost and Found.” Judges seek stories with powerful arcs and emotional resonance. The top 40 entries are published in an anthology, and all published writers receive a free digital copy.
Word count: Maximum 1,000 words
Prizes: First: $200 AUD + ticket to CYA Conference (valued at $410 AUD); Second–Fourth: 1-year QWC membership (valued at $79 AUD); Top 40 published in anthology
Entry fee: $18.50 AUD
Closing date: 1 August 2025

Write the World Short Story Competition

This international contest is open to young writers (ages 13–19). Each cycle features a new prompt, and writers can receive feedback before submitting a final draft.
Word count: 100 words only
Prizes: $100 (first) and publication on Write the World
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 25 August 2025

Essay contest 2025

Ayn Rand Institute Annual Essay Contests

These internationally recognized contests offer major scholarship prizes for essays on Ayn Rand’s novels (Anthem, The Fountainhead, Atlas Shrugged). Each contest is open to specific student age groups, with prompts for each novel.
Word count: 600 – 1,200 words
Prizes: Up to $25,000
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 1 August 2025

Book writing contests 2025

Book Pipeline Adaptation Contest

This annual contest seeks published books, graphic novels, and short stories ready for adaptation to film or TV. The contest is open to traditionally or self-published works (short stories may be unpublished). Winners receive extensive project development and circulation to film/TV industry professionals.
Word count: Submit first 5,000 words, logline, and 1–3 page synopsis
Prizes: $5,000 (Grand Prize), development for adaptation, and industry circulation; Runner-up receives development and circulation
Entry fee: $55
Closing date: 15 August 2025

Dynamo Verlag Book Prize

Dynamo Verlag’s international contest seeks unpublished book-length manuscripts (fiction, nonfiction, or poetry) from emerging and established writers. The winner receives publication and author support from Dynamo Verlag, a respected independent press.
Word count: 7,000 – 100,000 words for prose
Prizes: Publication by Dynamo Verlag; author support and promotion, $1,000 advance against book royalties
Entry fee: $18
Closing date: 31 August 2025

Kindle Storyteller UK Award

This major UK-based literary prize recognizes outstanding writing published via Kindle Direct Publishing. Open to any genre, the contest requires publication of your book as both an ebook and a paperback, enrollment in KDP Select, and use of the keyword “StorytellerUK2025” during the entry period.
Word count: No minimum or maximum (full-length book required)
Prizes: £20,000 (winner), Kindle Oasis E-reader (finalists)
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 31 August 2025

Mixed writing contests 2025

Bournemouth Writing Festival Competition

Open internationally, this competition honors exceptional short stories and poetry. Supported by Bournemouth University’s MA in Creative Writing and Publishing, it offers significant cash prizes, publication in Dorset Magazine, and festival tickets.
Word count: Short stories up to 3,000 words; up to 3 poems (each max 30 lines) per entry
Prizes: £500 (first), £300 (second), £200 (third) in each category; overall prize fund £3,000; publication and free festival tickets
Entry fee: £10 (short story), £10 (up to three poems)
Closing date: 15 August 2025

Aesthetica Creative Writing Award

Aesthetica Magazine’s international award celebrates innovation in poetry and short fiction. Entries are accepted on any theme, and previously published work is welcome. Winning and shortlisted entries are published in the Aesthetica Creative Writing Anthology.
Word count: Poetry up to 40 lines; Short fiction up to 2,000 words
Prizes: £2,500 (poetry winner), £2,500 (fiction winner); anthology publication; subscriptions; writing courses; masterclasses; additional prizes
Entry fee: £12 (poetry), £18 (fiction)
Closing date: 31 August 2025

SaveAs Writers’ International Writing Competition

To mark the 250th anniversary of J. M. W. Turner’s birth, SaveAs Writers invites poems and stories on the theme “Facing the Storm.” Entries may interpret the theme literally or metaphorically, and are open internationally.
Word count: Poems up to 60 lines; Short stories up to 3,500 words
Prizes: £200 (first), £100 (second), £50 (third) in both poetry and fiction categories
Entry fee: £4 per poem (£10 for three); £5 per short story (£12 for three)
Closing date: 31 August 2025

September 2025

As the fall season approaches, so do many interesting writing competitions. There are 4 exciting essay contests this month as well. September will truly be a month of writers this year!

Poetry contests 2025

Enfield Poets Poetry Competition 2025

In celebration of their 25th anniversary, Enfield Poets invite entries judged by David Constantine. Open to all poets, this contest awards cash prizes and features a special prize reading event.

Word count: No length specified
Prizes: £500 (first), £250 (second), £125 (third)
Entry fee: £4 per poem or £10 for three poems
Closing date: 10 September 2025

Wetherby Festival Comedy Poem Competition 2025

The only open-entry funny poem competition in the UK, this annual contest is open to all ages and encourages lighthearted, humorous poetry. Prizes are awarded for various age groups and for performance.
Word count: No limit specified
Prizes: £25 book token for each category (Funniest Poem overall, ages 12–16, ages 11 and under, and performance)
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 14 September 2025

Togetherness Poetry Challenge 2025

This international, themed poetry challenge invites submissions on “Decolonizing Minds and Shared Identities.” The project emphasizes diversity, social cohesion, and the transformative power of poetry.
Word count: No limit specified
Prizes: £500 (first) and five £100 prizes
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 26 September 2025

The Moth Nature Writing Prize 2025

An annual competition celebrating exceptional unpublished poetry or prose about the natural world. The prize is open internationally to writers aged 16+ and judged by Mark Cocker.
Word count: Up to 4,000 words (poetry or prose)
Prizes: €1,000 (first + week at The Moth Retreat, Ireland), €500 (second), €250 (third)
Entry fee: €15 per entry
Closing date: 30 September 2025

Poetic Worth – The Old Town Hall, Bourne

Part of the Worth 200 celebrations, this poetry callout seeks poems inspired by the life and works of Charles Frederick Worth. Open to adults and under-16s, with themed prompts provided.
Word count: No limit specified
Prizes: Opportunity for publication and performance at the Worth 200 event (12 October 2025)
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 30 September 2025

Short story writing contests 2025

Calibre Audio Inclusive Voices Short Story Competition

A UK contest celebrating accessibility, open to all ages and abilities, with a focus on the themes of Audio, Braille, and Community. Entries can be written, audio, or video, and are especially encouraged from people with print disabilities.
Word count: Up to 550 words
Prizes: Amazon Echo Dot (first), £20 book voucher (second), Caliber Audio merchandise (third), in each age category
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 5 September 2025

The Masters Review Summer Short Story Award for New Writers

A bi-annual international contest for emerging writers who have not published a novel or memoir with a major press. Welcome previously unpublished short fiction or creative nonfiction. Winning stories receive publication, cash prizes, and agency review from top literary agencies.
Word count: Up to 6,000 words
Prizes: $3,000 (first), $300 (second), $200 (third); all finalists are published and receive agency review
Entry fee: $20 per entry
Closing date: 7 September 2025

The Writers’ College Annual Short Story Competition

Open to emerging writers aged 16+ worldwide with fewer than four publication credits. Stories must interpret the theme “All the things we didn’t learn,” and the exact phrase must appear somewhere in the story.
Word count: Up to 2,000 words
Prizes: NZ$1,000 (first), NZ$500 (second), NZ$250 (third), publication in anthology
Entry fee: £8/$15 per entry after
Closing date: 30 September 2025

Creative Writing Ink Short Story Competition 2025

Open internationally to all writers and all genres. Entries are judged anonymously by Tyler Paterson.
Word count: Up to 3,000 words
Prizes: £1000 (first), £200 (two runner-ups each)
Entry fee: £12 per entry
Closing date: 30 September 2025

Essay contest 2025

Immerse Education Essay Competition

An international academic essay competition for students aged 13–18. Choose from over 20 subject-specific questions and submit a 500-word response for a chance to win full or partial scholarships to prestigious Immerse Education summer and online programmes (locations include Oxford, Cambridge, Sydney, New York, and more).
Word count: 500 words
Prizes: 10 full scholarships, 40 partial scholarships (75%), further partial awards (50% or less), and merit awards (£1,000, £500, or £250 towards programmes); all entrants receive a participation voucher
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 18 September 2025

Solas Awards for Best Travel Writing

The annual Solas Awards celebrate excellence in true travel stories. Submit essays in a variety of categories—adventure, memoir, transformation, culture, food, and more. Grand prizes awarded for Best Travel Story of the Year, with publication on TravelersTales.com and in Travelers’ Tales books.
Word count: No specified minimum or maximum
Prizes: $1,000 (Gold), $750 (Silver), $500 (Bronze) for Best Travel Story of the Year; category winners receive recognition
Entry fee: $35, $5 for each additional category
Closing date: 21 September 2025

Lascaux Prize in Creative Nonfiction

Hosted by The Lascaux Review, this contest welcomes creative nonfiction essays, including memoirs, chronicles, personal essays, and literary journalism. Both published and unpublished work is accepted, and all entries are considered for publication in the journal.
Word count: Up to 10,000 words
Prizes: $1,000; bronze medallion; publication in The Lascaux Review
Entry fee: $15
Closing date: 30 September 2025

The Fountain Essay Contest 2025: Real or Fake

The Fountain’s annual global essay contest invites personal and reflective essays on the theme “Real or Fake.” Open to writers worldwide, the contest seeks original essays exploring truth, reality, authenticity, or deception in personal or societal contexts.
Word count: 1,500 to 2,500
Prizes: $1,000 (first), $500 (second), $300 (third), $150 each (two honorable mentions)
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 30 September 2025

Book writing contests 2025

International Debut Novel Competition (Irish Writers Centre)

An annual global competition (formerly Novel Fair) celebrating new voices in fiction. Open to unpublished novelists worldwide, the contest offers 12 winners the chance to pitch their debut novels directly to leading publishers and agents through a two-day hybrid event.
Word count: 5,000-word extract + 500-word synopsis (full manuscript required if longlisted)
Prizes: Pitch opportunity to agents and publishers, professional pitch training, industry exposure
Entry fee: €65; 10 free entries for students/unwaged/seniors (proof required)
Closing date: 14 September 2025

Mslexia Women’s Fiction Competition 2025 (Adult Novel)

Open to unpublished novels by women writers in any genre for adult or YA readers. Submit the first 5,000 words of your novel. Longlisted entrants are asked for the full manuscript.
Word count: At least 50,000 words (full novel); submit first 5,000 words initially
Prizes: £5,000 (winner); feedback, pitch training, introductions to agents/editors, and travel support for four finalists
Entry fee: £26
Closing date: 22 September 2025

Book Pipeline Unpublished Contest

For unpublished manuscripts in ten categories (including fiction, nonfiction, children’s, YA, memoir, and more). Winners and runners-up receive industry circulation, feedback from publishers and agents, and consideration for film/TV adaptation.
Word count: First 5,000 words + synopsis (fiction/memoir); see website for category specifics
Prizes: $2,500 for each of 10 category winners ($25,000 total); industry exposure and private events
Entry fee: $65
Closing date: 25 September 2025

Shelf Unbound Best Indie Book Competition

Celebrates the best self-published, indie, and small press books in any genre (except picture books). Authors worldwide can enter books published in any year. Winners and notable books are featured in Shelf Unbound magazine.
Word count: No minimum or maximum (full-length book)
Prizes: Editorial coverage for winner, finalists, and long-list; Best Self-Published Book winner receives a year of full-page ads
Entry fee: $100 (early), $125 (regular), $150 (late)
Closing date: 30 September 2025

Mixed writing contests 2025

Last Syllable Book Awards

Annual post-publication award for full-length books and chapbooks (poetry and prose) published 2023–2025. Open to authors, publishers, and agents. Self-published and collaborative works welcome.
Word count: Full-length or chapbook
Prizes: $1,000 (each for poetry and prose), up to $1,000 travel expenses, feature in PLNU Visiting Writers Series
Entry fee: $25
Closing date: 1 September 2025

Terrain.org 16th Annual Contest

Open to poetry, fiction, and nonfiction. Submit up to 5 poems (7 pages max), one story (up to 5,000 words) or two flash pieces (up to 1,000 words each), or one essay/article (up to 5,000 words) or two flash essays (up to 1,000 words each).
Word count: Poetry (1–5 poems, 7 pages max), Fiction (up to 5,000 words), Nonfiction (up to 5,000 words)
Prizes: $1,000 (winner in each genre), $200 (finalists), publication
Entry fee: $20 per entry
Closing date: 1 September 2025

Flash 405 (Exposition Review)

A recurring, multi-genre flash contest open every other month (February–September). Categories include fiction (up to 405 words), nonfiction (up to 405 words), poetry (up to 5 lines), stage & screen (up to 4 pages), and experimental forms.
Word count: Fiction/Nonfiction (405 words max), Poetry (5 lines), Stage & Screen (4 pages)
Prizes: 1st prize: 40% of entry fees + publication; 2nd prize: 20% of entry fees + publication; Honorable Mentions: publication
Entry fee: $5 per entry
Closing date: 5 September 2025

Santa Fe Writers Project Literary Awards

An international contest open to fiction and creative nonfiction of any genre. Judged by Deesha Philyaw, the competition welcomes unpublished, self-published, or small press books (without significant marketing support). Winners receive cash prizes and the option of a publishing contract.
Word count: No word limit
Prizes: $1,500 (grand prize), $500 (for two runners-up), publishing contract (optional)
Entry fee: $30 ($25 early bird through May 1)
Closing date: 15 September 2025

October 2025

Writing contests in October are fun and even more creative. As the year progresses, the contests progress too, and you’ll find a ton of interesting writing contests this month.

Poetry contests 2025

The Heartland Review Press Poetry Prize 2025

Annual US-based contest open internationally for a single, unpublished poem in English. All forms and styles welcome. Winning and selected poems published in The Heartland Review.
Word count: Up to 60 lines
Prizes: $200 (first), $50 (second), $25 (third); publication for winner and finalists
Entry fee: $10 for up to 3 poems
Closing date: 1 October 2025

iOTA SHOT Pamphlet Awards 2025 (Templar Poetry)

Open internationally for poetry pamphlets (manuscripts of 16–25 pages). Up to four pamphlets are published, with shortlisted poets featured in iOTA magazine.
Word count: 16–25 pages of poetry (pamphlet manuscript)
Prizes: Publication by Templar Poetry, promotion at live events, option for full collection consideration
Entry fee: £20 per pamphlet
Closing date: 20 October 2025

Waltham Forest Poetry Competition 2025

National and local UK competition on the theme of “WEATHER” (or “WHETHER”). Up to 6 poems per entrant, max 40 lines each. Open internationally, with special young poet and local prizes, plus a funniest poem prize.
Word count: Up to 40 lines per poem; up to 6 poems per entry
Prizes: £400 (adult first), £200 (second), £100 (third); local and young poet prizes; £100 funniest poem
Entry fee: Adults: £3 for first poem, £1 each subsequent poem; under 18s: free
Closing date: 20 October 2025

National Poetry Competition

One of the world’s most prestigious single poem contests, run by The Poetry Society (UK). Open internationally to anyone 18+, for unpublished poems of any length or theme.
Word count: No limit
Prizes: £5,000 (first), £3,000 (second), £2,000 (third), £500 (commended)
Entry fee: £8 for first poem, £6 each subsequent poem (discounts for Poetry Society members)
Closing date: 31 October 2025

Short story writing contests 2025

Zoetrope: All-Story Short Fiction Competition

A highly respected international contest judged by a guest author (2025: Jamel Brinkley). Submit an unpublished short story of up to 5,000 words. Winners and honorable mentions are considered for representation by major literary agencies.
Word count: Up to 5,000 words
Prizes: $1,000 (first), $500 (second), $250 (third); publication for winner; agency consideration for top 10
Entry fee: $30 per story
Closing date: 1 October 2025

Short Édition/Principal Foundation Money Chronicles Short Story Contest

U.S.-based contest for adults 18+ to submit short stories (fiction or creative nonfiction) on the theme of money and personal finance. The first 400 submissions will be read. Winning and finalist stories will be distributed via Short Édition’s story dispensers in public spaces around the U.S.
Word count: Up to 7,500 characters (including spaces)
Prizes: $1,000 (winner), $150 (up to 20 finalists); publication in dispensers and online
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 12 October 2025

Ironclad Creative Short Story Competition

Open to both published and unpublished writers worldwide, this short story contest seeks stories inspired in any way by the prompt “SWITCH.” All genres of prose welcome (except screenplays/poetry), up to 6,000 words. Prize-winning and shortlisted stories will be published in the Ironclad Creative anthology.
Word count: Up to 6,000 words
Prizes: £100 (first), £50 (second), £25 (third); all three plus shortlisted writers published
Entry fee: £9 per story (some free places for low income writers; email to enquire)
Closing date: 31 October 2025

Essay contest 2025

EVENT Non-Fiction Contest 2025

An international creative non-fiction competition open to writers exploring the full range of the form. Submit original, unpublished essays up to 5,000 words. Multiple entries welcome (with separate fees). All entries are considered for publication.
Word count: Up to 5,000 words
Prizes: $1,500 (first), $1,000 (second), $500 (third); all three winners published in EVENT
Entry fee: $34.95 CAD per entry (includes one-year subscription or renewal to EVENT)
Closing date: 15 October 2025

Book writing contests 2025

North American Book Awards

Annual contest open to books published in English between 2021 and 2025. Authors and publishers can submit in multiple categories. Winners receive medals, digital seals for covers, and year-round exposure.
Word count: Not specified; must be a high-quality, professionally produced book
Prizes: Gold, Silver, Bronze medals; digital seals; recognition and exposure
Entry fee: $125 for the first category, $95 for each additional category
Closing date: 1 October 2025

Eyelands Book Awards

An international competition based in Greece for published and unpublished books in English across a wide range of genres: fiction, poetry, short story collections, memoir, children’s/YA, LGBTQIA+, sci-fi, and self-published. Open to writers of any nationality.
Word count: Up to 250,000 words (books); poetry/short stories up to 250 pages
Prizes: Grand Prize (published books): Five-day stay in Athens; Grand Prize (unpublished): translation into Greek and publication; additional prizes include handmade ceramics, online publication, certification, and video promotion
Entry fee: €40 ($45); early bird €30 ($35) until September 1, 2025
Closing date: 20 October 2025

Mixed writing contests 2025

Royal Dragonfly Book Awards

An annual, international book contest for published books and eBooks (including indie, self-published, and traditionally published works) in a wide range of categories—fiction, nonfiction, poetry, children’s, YA, LGBTQ+, STEM, and more.
Word count: Books (no restriction)
Prizes: £100 in vouchers. Gold, Silver, Bronze medals, digital seals, and recognition in over 70 categories
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 3 October 2025

The Hope Prize

A major international literary prize for short stories that explore hope, resilience, and positive change. Open to writers worldwide. Winning entries are featured in a Simon & Schuster anthology.
Word count: See website for details
Prizes: $10,000 (first prize), publication in a Simon & Schuster anthology
Entry fee: $30
Closing date: 31 October 2025

Solstice Writing Prize (Writing East Midlands)

A free annual competition for young writers aged 11–17 in the UK’s East Midlands region. All genres are welcome—poetry, short stories, scripts, essays, and more. Themed for 2025 (see website for latest details).
Word count: No limit
Prizes: Publication, prizes, and opportunities for young writers
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 31 October 2025

The Bedford Competition

An international competition for both short stories and poetry, open to writers aged 17 and over. Entries accepted from anywhere in the world. All winning and shortlisted works are published in the annual anthology.
Word count: Short stories (3,000 words max), poems (40 lines max)
Prizes: £2,000 (first), £300 (second), £200 (third) in both story and poetry categories; special prizes for young writers (17–25) and local entrants
Entry fee: £7.50 per entry, £15 for 3 poems or 2 stories
Closing date: 31 October 2025

November 2025

November comes with exciting contests with a lot of scope for writers wanting to participate in NaNoWriMo as well. Horror writing is also a new theme in this month’s contests, along with various essay and book competitions!

PaperTrue Writing Contest 2025: Submit your 30,000-word manuscript by December 1, 2025, and stand a chance to win free professional editing for your entire book — courtesy of PaperTrue. It’s completely free to enter, and one talented writer will win a full editing service from our expert editors.
Word count: 30,000 words (minimum)
Entry fee: None
Prize: Free professional manuscript editing
Closing date: December 1, 2025

Click here to submit your entry now: Submission Form

Poetry contests 2025

Evaristo Prize for African Poetry (African Poetry Book Fund)

An annual prize awarding $1,500 to a manuscript of exactly ten poems by an African poet (broadly defined to include birth, nationality/residency, or parentage). Poems in English (including translations) are eligible; chapbook publication does not disqualify, but a full-length book does. Anonymous submissions via Submittable only.
Word count: 10 poems (each up to 40 lines; exactly ten poems required)
Prizes: $1,500 (with a percentage to translator if applicable)
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 01 November 2025

Perugia Press Prize

For women poets (inclusive of gender‑expansive identities) with no more than one previously published full-length book. The winner receives publication, $2,000, author copies, collaborative editorial/design support, launch events, and robust promotion. Anonymous reading; multiple submission fee tiers (including a fee‑free option for BIWOC poets).
Word count: Typically 45–85 pages
Prizes: $2,000 and publication by Perugia Press (+ extensive editorial and publicity support)
Entry fee: $30 standard (includes free book), $15 reduced, fee‑free for BIWOC poets
Closing date: 15 November 2025

Nightboat Poetry Prize

Nightboat Books’ annual prize for full-length poetry manuscripts in English, open internationally. Selected manuscripts receive publication and author copies; submissions are read anonymously with an emphasis on innovative, risk‑taking poetry.
Word count: Full-length manuscript (commonly 48–90+ pages; see guidelines)
Prizes: Publication by Nightboat Books (plus author copies; see press for full benefits)
Entry fee: $28
Closing date: 15 November 2025

Benjamin Saltman Poetry Award (Red Hen Press)

Established in honor of Benjamin Saltman, this annual award selects an original, previously unpublished full-length poetry manuscript. The winning collection is published by Red Hen Press; this year’s final judge is Brenda Cárdenas. Submissions are anonymous.
Word count: 48–96 pages (8.5″x11″, 1″ margins, 12pt Times New Roman)
Prizes: $3,000 and publication by Red Hen Press
Entry fee: $25
Closing date: 1 November 2025

Short story writing contests 2025

Tadpole Press 100-Word Writing Contest

A global micro-writing contest welcoming all ages, genres, and nationalities. For November 2025, the theme is truth-telling—honesty that feels risky and necessary. Entries must be 100 words or fewer (including title, per Microsoft Word). Nonviolent, uplifting pieces are favored; judges seek creativity, uniqueness, and transformation.
Word count: Up to 100 words (including title)
Prizes: $1,000 (1st); extensive publishing/marketing and editorial packages for 2nd–6th; $200 (7th–10th); $150 (11th–15th); $100 (16th–20th); $50 (21st–30th)
Entry fee: $15 per entry (unlimited entries)
Closing date: 30 November 2025

WOW! Women on Writing Quarterly Flash Fiction Contest (Fall 2025)

An international flash competition open to all styles and genres of fiction. Anonymous judging with limited entries per quarter. Optional critique available. Title not counted toward word count; MS Word word count used for verification.
Word count: 250–750 words
Prizes: $400 (1st), $300 (2nd), $200 (3rd), plus publication and interview; 7 runners-up ($25 Amazon GC + publication + interview); 10 honorable mentions ($20 Amazon GC + listing)
Entry fee: $10 entry; $20 with critique
Closing date: 30 November 2025

Inkspot Publishing Inaugural Short Story Competition

Open internationally to original short stories in English, judged by literary agent Kate Nash and sponsored by World Privilege Plus. Two word-count tiers with corresponding fees. Blind judging; low-income writers may request a fee waiver. Top stories may be published on Inkspot’s site and FictionJunkies.com.
Word count: Up to 2,500 words (£10) or up to 5,000 words (£15)
Prizes: £1,000 (1st), £250 (2nd), £100 (3rd); Top 12 considered for online publication
Entry fee: £10 (≤2,500 words) or £15 (≤5,000 words)
Closing date: 30 November 2025

Essay contest 2025

Lumiere Scholars Essay Award

A free, worldwide academic essay competition for high school students, with categories in Humanities, Social Sciences, and STEM. Choose one of the set prompts and craft a research-based argumentative essay (MLA 8 style, double‑blind reviewed by an international academic panel).
Word count: Up to 2,000 words (excluding footnotes and bibliography)
Prizes: $1,000 cash + full Lumiere scholarship (per category 1st); $500 cash + $2,000 Lumiere scholarship (per category 2nd); additional Rising Scholars scholarships
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 02 November 2025

Book writing contests 2025

HNS First Chapters Competition

Historical Novel Society’s competition for the opening of an unpublished historical novel: submit up to 3,000 words plus an 800-word synopsis. Open to members and non‑members, published and unpublished authors; multiple historical sub‑genre categories. All entries receive brief judge feedback.
Word count: 3,000 words (opening) + 800-word synopsis
Prizes: £1,000 overall winner; £500 per category winner + free HNS 2026 conference ticket; badges and announcements for longlist/shortlist/winners
Entry fee: £25 (HNS members), £35 (non‑members)
Closing date: 17 November 2025

Literary Global Book Awards (LGBA)

Inclusive international awards open to unpublished manuscripts and published books from any press size. Single entry qualifies for category prize and overall Book of the Year (Fiction and Non‑Fiction). Submit electronically with the entry form and PDF (including cover).
Word count: Not specified
Prizes: Category awards; two Book of the Year titles (Fiction and Non‑Fiction)
Entry fee: $29 per category
Closing date: 30 November 2025

Bram Stoker Awards (Horror Writers Association)

Horror’s premier literary awards honor works published in the award year across multiple categories (e.g., Novel, First Novel, Poetry Collection, Anthology, etc.). Promotion must follow strict guidelines; jury submissions are accepted digitally with firm deadlines.
Word count: Not specified (varies by category; see category guidelines)
Prizes: Bram Stoker Award recognition (no entry fee; juried/member recommendation process)
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 30 November 2025

Feathered Quill Book Awards

Annual program for books in English with 2024–2025 copyright dates (plus a Best of Backlist category for 2023 or earlier). Multiple genre categories, professional judging on content and production; accepts print or single‑file PDF, including front and back covers.
Word count: Not specified (book‑length; by category)
Prizes: Gold/Silver/Bronze per category; certificates, award seals (25), site features, social media promotion, press release; finalists receive seals/certificates
Entry fee: $85 (Aug 1–31), $95 (Sept 1–Oct 31), $105 (Nov 1–30); +$40 per additional category
Closing date: 30 November 2025

Mixed writing contests 2025

Open Season Awards (The Malahat Review)

Annual international contest with three genres: poetry, short fiction, and creative nonfiction. Winners receive publication in Spring 2026 (issue #234) and CAD$2,000 each. Anonymous judging; Submittable only; early-bird entry discounts.
Word count: Poetry up to 3 poems (max 100 lines each); Short fiction up to 2,500 words; Creative nonfiction up to 2,500 words
Prizes: CAD$2,000 per genre winner + publication; book prize drawings for entrants
Entry fee: Canada: CAD$35; International: CAD$45; additional entries CAD$10
Closing date: 01 November 2025

FC2 Prizes (Fiction Collective 2)

Two innovative fiction manuscript prizes with publication by FC2 (Univ. of Alabama Press). The Sukenick (for writers without prior FC2 books) and the Doctorow (for writers with 3+ published books). Anonymous submissions via Submittable; fee waivers available.
Word count: Book‑length innovative fiction (collections, novellas, or novel; no set length)
Prizes: Sukenick: $3,000 + publication (final judge: Alvin Lu for 2026)
Entry fee: $25 per manuscript (fee waivers available)
Closing date: 01 November 2025

F(r)iction Fall 2025 Writing Contests

Boundary‑pushing contest with categories in Short Story, Poetry, and Flash Fiction, judged by guest authors. Results announced April 2026. No AI‑generated work accepted.
Word count: Short Story (1,001 – 7,500 words), Poetry (up t0 three pages per poem), Flash Fiction (up to 1,000 words per piece)
Prizes: $1,000 (Short Story), $300 (Poetry), $300 (Flash Fiction); publication consideration
Entry fee: $15 per entry
Closing date: 07 November 2025

The Writers Cypher Contest

Global contest for adults (18+) in two categories: Poetry and Short Story. Three‑round format including a public “Battle Write” semifinal; finalists judged by a panel. One $20 fee covers all rounds. No AI entries; simultaneous submissions allowed.
Word count: Poetry up to 750 words; Short story up to 2,500 words
Prizes: $1,000 each to two grand prize winners (Poetry and Short Story); $250 to two runners‑up; additional recognition through site features
Entry fee: $20 per submission (one poem or one short story per fee)
Closing date: 30 November 2025

December 2025

The end of the year marks an exciting month for writers. You can participate in various writing contest activities. A mix of poetry, books, and essay contests gives the writers a chance to win exciting prizes!

Poetry contests 2025

Sillerman First Book Prize for African Poets (African Poetry Book Fund)

Awards publication with University of Nebraska Press and Amalion Press, plus a cash prize for an African poet’s first full-length collection. Manuscripts are read anonymously; translations to English are allowed (translator shares a percentage of the prize).
Word count: 50+ pages (full-length manuscript)
Prizes: $1,000 and publication
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 01 December 2025

Four Quartets Prize 2026 (Poetry Society of America)

Honors a unified, complete sequence of poems published in the United States in 2025 (in a journal, chapbook, or book). Minimum fourteen pages; submissions by authors, publishers, or agents. Finalists receive $1,000; winner receives an additional $20,000. No fee; USPS mail only.
Word count: Minimum 14 pages of a unified sequence (published in 2025)
Prizes: $20,000 (winner); $1,000 to each finalist
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 15 December 2025

Codhill Press Pauline Uchmanowicz Poetry Award 2025

Book-length poetry manuscript competition open to poets writing in English. Previously published poems allowed with acknowledgments; no translations or previously self-published books. Anonymous judging; winner distributed by SUNY Press; finalists considered for publication.
Word count: 48–70 pages (max one poem per page)
Prizes: $1,000 and 25 author copies; publication consideration for finalists
Entry fee: $30
Closing date: 30 December 2025

The Moth Poetry Prize 2025

One of the world’s largest prizes for a single unpublished poem, open worldwide to writers aged 16+. Judged anonymously by a single poet (2025 judge: Ishion Hutchinson). Any subject; no line limit; previously unpublished work only. Shortlist announced March 2026; overall winner announced spring 2026.
Word count: No line limit (single unpublished poem)
Prizes: €6,000 (first prize); 3 runner-up prizes of €1,000; 8 commended prizes of €250
Entry fee: €16 per poem
Closing date: 31 December 2025

Short story writing contests 2025

InterAct Stroke Support Ruth Rendell Short Story Competition

Biennial competition seeking positive, hospital‑appropriate stories in any genre; the top three are performed by professional actors. Shortlist announced at the Orange Tree Theatre ceremony. The winner is commissioned to write four additional stories for InterAct.
Word count: Up to 1,000 words
Prizes: £1,000 (winner, via commission for four further stories) + performances by professional actors
Entry fee: £15
Closing date: 21 December 2025

Do Wha(TS) Write! Creative Writing Contest

Annual international fundraiser for Tourette Canada, open to all writers. Low entry fee with a single cash prize; themed around raising awareness of Tourette’s Syndrome. 100% of fees go directly to Tourette Canada.
Word count: Up to 1,000 words
Prizes: $200 CAD (single prize)
Entry fee: $5 CAD
Closing date: 31 December 2025

Essay contest 2025

The Golden Pen Short Essay Contest (Central Park Tutors)

Free, high school and middle school–only essay contest celebrating the life-changing impact of books. Write up to two pages about a great book’s impact on you—before, during, and after reading. Open worldwide to students; judged on emotional power and intellectual interest by the Central Park Tutors team.
Word count: Up to 2 pages (PDF/online form; high school and middle school students)
Prizes: $200 cash prize + the Golden Pen (winner)
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 31 December 2025

Book writing contests 2025

Bardsy First Chapter Anthology Contest

A first‑chapter contest focused on revision and craft. Every entrant receives detailed Publishability Index feedback across 23 dimensions, can revise once before final judging, and finalists work with a professional editor prior to anthology publication. Open to original English chapters of 1,500–2,500 words; adult entrants only.
Word count: 1,500–2,500 words (first chapter)
Prizes: $1,000 grand prize + anthology publication; finalists: $50 + anthology publication
Entry fee: $25
Closing date: 05 December 2025

BestSellersWorld Book Awards 2025

Annual international book awards judged by BestSellers World reviewers across multiple categories. English‑language books only; PDF copies encouraged. Three winners per category will be announced on January 8, 2026.
Word count: Book-length (no specific limit; by category)
Prizes: First/Second/Third per category; digital seal & certificate; author page; listings on site, newsletter, blog, social media, and Goodreads; award logo added to any existing BestSellersWorld review
Entry fee: $75 per entry (+$20 for each additional category)
Closing date: 15 December 2025

Mixed writing contests 2025

Bardsy First Chapter Anthology Contest (Fall 2025)

A first‑chapter competition that includes editorial development: every entrant receives Publishability Index feedback with specific recommendations, can revise once before final judging, and finalists work with an editor before publication. Open to original English chapters from adults; Fall 2025 cycle is closed, next opens Spring 2026.
Word count: 1,500–2,500 words (first chapter)
Prizes: $1,000 grand prize + anthology publication; finalists: $50 + anthology publication
Entry fee: $25
Closing date: 05 December 2025

Gotham Writers Teen Contest

Gotham Writers Workshop’s first contest for teens (details on categories, eligibility, and deadlines available on the contest page).
Word count: 250 words
Prizes: $400 Gotham credit, a $50 gift certificate to Bookshop.org, and publication.
Entry fee: Free
Closing date: 15 December 2025

Writing contests in 2025 offer incredible opportunities to showcase your talent, win prizes, and even kickstart your publishing journey. Pick one (or a few!) contests from our list and start polishing your best work.

If contests aren’t your only goal and you’re looking to take full control of your writing career, consider self-publishing! PaperTrue’s editing and proofreading services make it easy with professional editing and formatting, helping you turn your manuscript into a successful contest submission!

Here are some useful resources for you:

A Beginner’s Guide on How to Self Publish a Book (2025)

Posted on November 10, 2025November 11, 2025 by Tanvi Sarnaik

Step closer to your self-publishing dream with our in-depth guide! From editing to uploading your book file, we’ve included everything you need to know. We’ve also added the pros and cons of self-publishing platforms to help you decide the best ones.

Selling your book effectively is crucial in the self-publishing process. Publishing platforms can help authors reach major retailers, offering a wider distribution. This comprehensive guide walks you through the entire self-publishing process, from manuscript to marketplace, with current pricing and platform comparisons for 2025.

Browse through our 8 easy steps to self-publishing a book and understand the costs involved. These steps will also guide you on formatting, creating an ISBN, and more.

Get expert self-publishing services for your masterpiece!

The 8 easy steps to self-publish a book are:

Writing your book
Hire professional editing services to self-publish your book
Employ book cover design services
Ensure proper formatting
Select self-publishing platforms
Get an ISBN for your book
Finalize your book’s metadata
Add book details and self-publish!

Steps to self-publishing a book

Following the steps given below can help you publish your novel or book with ease. This input might help you find the best way to publish your book. A self-publishing checklist can also help you plan and execute tasks on time.

1. Writing your book

Writing your book will be the first obvious step that you’ll be taking. We know! But following some great book-writing tips can change the game for your book. Reviewing your writing using our amazing book writing tips might help you a great deal if you’re still in the process of writing or revising your book. Editing it yourself as a basic practice will be a good addition to your writing phase.

Use these quick tips for writing a book:

Complete your first draft without excessive self-editing
Let the manuscript rest for 2-4 weeks before revision
Perform at least 2-3 self-editing passes
Use writing software like Scrivener or Google Docs for organization

2. Hire professional editing services to self-publish your book

Once you thoroughly edit your book, the next step is to find reliable professional editing services for self-publishing your novel or book. You’ll need the following services:

Manuscript critique ($500-$1,500) – This provides an overall assessment of your manuscript, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses, and offering feedback on elements such as structure, plot, characters, and marketability.
Developmental editing ($0.03-$0.08/word) – This type of editing focuses on improving plot, character development, pacing, clarity, and narrative flow.
Copy editing ($0.02-$0.04/word) – This involves checking the document for grammatical, spelling, and syntax errors, along with the consistency of style.
Proofreading ($0.01-$0.02/word) – This is the final check of your novel to rectify any remaining errors and typographical mistakes.

While the process of self-publishing for authors can seem tedious, professional editors and proofreaders can simplify it to a great extent. At PaperTrue, we offer all the editing and proofreading services mentioned above.

Here is a comparison of the top editing companies to help you decide:

3. Employ book cover design services

An attractive book cover design is the first impression of your book for readers. The following are some important pointers while choosing book cover design services:

Check the pricing, experience, and portfolio of the services. The best self-publishing companies offer comprehensive services at competitive prices.
Read reviews of their services online.
Analyze whether they provide scope for multiple revisions without additional costs.
Ensure that they can design covers for multiple formats (paperbacks, eBooks, etc).

Some of the best book cover design services are PaperTrue, BookBaby, Kirkus Reviews, Ebook Launch, and Luminare Press. Below is a comparison of these services to help you select the best service.

Also read: Self-Publishing Options for Writers

4. Ensure proper formatting

One of the key steps to publishing a book is proper formatting for both printed and digital versions. This includes adjusting the text alignment, font size, paragraph indentation, page size, margins, and line spacing. It also includes formatting the chapter heading titles and ensuring appropriate spacing between chapters. You can use book formatting software and tools like Reedsy Book Editor, Vellum, and Atticus to format your book.

However, using tools and software can be time-consuming and may not be as reliable as book formatting companies. Additionally, several formatting companies provide editing, book cover design, marketing, and preparing your book for the best self-publishing platforms like Amazon, Apple Books, etc. Requesting a combined price for a bundle of these services can help you save costs. PaperTrue, BookBaby, Elite Authors, and EbookLaunch are some of the top book formatting companies.

Here are some important pointers while choosing a book formatting service:

Find out if the company has formatted books in your specific book genre. Go through their portfolio to determine the best self-publishing option.
Confirm if they can format and prepare your book for self-publishing platforms like Amazon Kindle, Apple Books, Barnes & Noble Press, and more.
Ask about their policy on revisions. Also, confirm the process for refunds and check what happens if you are dissatisfied with their services.
Compare their pricing and features to decide the best formatting service for your book.

Also read: Top 10 Book Marketing Services of 2024: Features and Costs

5. Select self-publishing platforms

This is an important step in the process of self-publishing a book. Amazon Self-Publishing, Apple Books, Barnes & Noble Press, and Kobo Writing Life are some of the well-known self-publishing platforms. The following are some of the pros and cons of these popular self-publishing platforms:

Amazon Self-Publishing

Pros: 70% royalties, massive reach, free ISBN
Cons: 90-day exclusivity with KDP Select
Best for: Fiction authors, first-time publishers

Apple Books

Pros: High royalties (70%), quality platform
Cons: Limited to the Apple ecosystem
Best for: Authors with an Apple-focused audience

Barnes & Noble Press

Pros: Good royalty rates (40-65%), print-on-demand services, no exclusivity (meaning the author can self-publish on other platforms simultaneously)
Cons: Does not publish audiobooks, fewer promotional tools compared to other platforms
Best for: Authors wanting a print book focus without platform restrictions

Kobo Writing Life

Pros: Good royalties on box sets, effective pre-order process, where you are not fined if you change your publication date
Cons: Limited global reach, low marketing efforts, weak customer support
Best for: Authors with established audiences who value flexible pre-order terms

Dive in to understand the essential features of these self-publishing platforms!

6. Get an ISBN for your book

International Book Standard Book Numbers (ISBNs) help your book reach wider audiences. An ISBN is a 13-digit number that helps to identify your book and track its distribution. Libraries and online platforms use ISBNs to list books, making it easier for readers to access your book. The following are some ways in which you can get an ISBN for your book:

Several platforms, like Draft2Digital and Smashwords offer free ISBNs for eBooks published using their platform.
Self-publishing companies like PaperTrue, Lulu, and BookBaby can help you with ISBN registration to get an ISBN (at a cost).
You can approach ISBN agencies like Bowker (Bowker is an ISBN agency based in the US) to get an ISBN.
Consider purchasing a block of ten ISBNs for a more cost-effective way to acquire multiple identifiers for different formats.

Also read: 8 Pre-Publishing Steps to Self-Publish Your Book

7. Finalize your book’s metadata

Metadata refers to all important book information like the title, subtitle, book description, pricing, ISBN, publisher information, and publication date. It also includes determining the keywords, categories, and genre for your book. Accurately reflecting the book’s content in the metadata is crucial for effective discoverability and global distribution.

Here are some strategies to create metadata to help your book reach a wider audience:

Select both broad and specific keywords to improve your book’s discoverability. For example, if your book is a fantasy novel but also contains historical aspects, you can include both fantasy and historical fantasy as keywords.
Add the period (timeframe) when the story of your novel takes place. For example, if your novel is based on the French Revolution, you can include it in your metadata.
Create an attractive book description by highlighting unique story elements and introducing a mystery to intrigue readers. The book description must ideally be 150-200 words.

Essential Metadata Elements:

Title and subtitle: Include keywords naturally
Book description: 150-200 words, hook readers immediately
Categories: Choose 2-3 specific categories
Keywords: 7 relevant search terms
Author bio: 50-100 words establishing credibility

Also read: Top 10 Best Print-on-Demand Book Companies

8. Add book details and self-publish!

In this step, you need to add all your book details to the chosen self-publishing platform. This includes uploading your book file, metadata, and deciding the book format (EPUB, MOBI, PDF, paperback, hardcover, large print, or audiobook). You will also have to upload your book cover and preview it. These are the final steps to create a self-published book. Here are some considerations while uploading book details to promote your book better:

Include reviews and testimonials from reputable sources to attract more readers to buy your book.
Highlight any special features to entice readers to buy your book. For example, discounts, pre-order bonuses, and an engaging book chapter to attract readers. If your book has any stunning illustrations or maps, you can include them while self-publishing a book.

Book printing and binding options

Self-publishing companies offer a variety of book printing and binding options for authors. Print-on-demand technology allows authors to print and distribute books as they are ordered, eliminating the need for large upfront costs and inventory storage. Authors can choose from various trim sizes, paper types, and binding options, including paperback, hardcover, and ebook formats. Self-published authors can also opt for specialty printing options, such as color interiors, glossy covers, and matte finishes. With the ability to print books in small quantities, authors can test different formats and designs to see what works best for their book. Moreover, many self-publishing companies offer global distribution, making it possible for authors to reach a worldwide audience.

Book marketing and promotion

Marketing and promotion are essential steps in the self-publishing process. Self-published authors are responsible for promoting their own work, which can be a challenging but rewarding task. Authors can use various marketing strategies, such as social media, email marketing, and book signings, to reach their target audience. Building an author platform and creating a promotion plan can help authors increase their visibility and sell more books. Self-publishing companies often offer marketing and promotion services, including press releases, book reviews, and advertising. Authors can also use online tools, such as Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing, to promote their ebooks and reach a wider audience. By taking control of their marketing and promotion, self-published authors can increase their chances of success and build a loyal readership.

Can You Make Money Self-Publishing?

Realistic income expectations:

Most authors earn $500-$3,000 in their first year
The top 20% of self-published authors earn $5,000+ annually
Success requires consistent publishing (3-4 books per year)
Building an audience takes 2-3 years on average

Self-publishing success tips for 2025

Write in series: Series sell 3x better than standalone books
Build your email list: Direct access to readers is invaluable
Invest in quality: Professional presentation matters more than ever
Learn Amazon’s algorithm: Understanding keywords and categories is crucial
Network with authors: Join writing groups and author communities
Keep publishing: Consistency builds careers in self-publishing
Track your data: Monitor sales, keywords, and ad performance

This concludes our guide to self-publishing a book! If you’re wondering about how to self-publish a children’s book or other books, these steps remain the same. Now that you know how to self-publish a book, you can begin your publishing journey.

As a trusted brand offering self-publishing services, we’d love to help you achieve your dreams. Let us know your views about this step-by-step self-publishing guide in the comments section! Here are some articles that you might find interesting:

Best EBook Cover Design Services of 2025 for Authors

Posted on November 7, 2025November 7, 2025 by Tanvi Sarnaik

As an author, your book’s cover is the first impression a reader gets — whether on a screen or on a shelf. A professional cover design can boost credibility, increase clicks in a crowded marketplace, and help your story stand out.

In 2025, the best eBook cover design services combine design expertise, genre knowledge, and efficient delivery. Below are the top 10 services authors should consider.

Ebook ready? Get an amazing cover now! Learn More

1. PaperTrue

PaperTrue isn’t just editing-focused; it also offers high-quality eBook cover design services, making it an excellent one-stop solution for authors who want both their manuscript polished and their book cover designed.

The team at PaperTrue combines creativity with professionalism, ensuring every book cover fits your story, genre, and audience perfectly. Their designs are visually appealing and market-ready, ideal for both digital and print formats.

Features

Custom eBook cover design, with options for print cover as well.
One-stop package: editing + typesetting + cover design.
Unlimited revisions until you’re satisfied.

Pros

Convenient for authors who want both editing and cover design under one roof.
Transparent starting pricing ($348) gives clarity.
Strong reputation and author-friendly process.

Pricing

Starts from USD $348 for cover design (basic)

2. Reedsy

Reedsy hosts a curated marketplace of professional cover designers—many with traditional publishing credentials—making it ideal for authors who want a bespoke, high-end cover aligned with their genre’s bestsellers.

It’s known for giving authors access to experts who understand visual storytelling and eBook market trends. Each design focuses on genre alignment, visual balance, and thumbnail visibility, essential for platforms like Amazon Kindle.

Features

Browse designer portfolios, select based on style and genre.
Collaboration tools to review drafts and feedback.
Works across eBook and print covers with attention to thumbnail legibility and print requirements.

Pros

High level of customization and designer choice.
Covers are often crafted to match market expectations and genre trends.

Pricing

Generally, in the USD $600-$900 range for full design, though it can vary.

3. BookBaby

BookBaby is geared toward self-publishing authors and offers professional eBook cover design as part of broader publishing packages, making it a strong pick if you’re handling everything yourself from manuscript to market.

Their team helps ensure your book cover looks professional and appealing on both digital and print platforms. It’s ideal for first-time authors who need both creative design and practical publishing support.

Features

Custom eBook cover design with genre-specific options.
Bundled services: cover design + formatting + distribution.
Clear quote system: you configure your cover type, binding, and genre, and get a price.

Pros

Great for authors who want a full self-publishing package, not just a cover.
Transparent and easy to get a quote and begin.

Pricing

Cover design starting from USD $399 for an eBook cover via their site.

Also read: Book Cover Design Basics: Tips & Best Book Cover Ideas

4. Ebook Launch

Ebook Launch offers professional eBook and print cover design services that balance creativity, speed, and affordability. Their team delivers quick first concepts without compromising on design quality.

For authors on tight schedules or upcoming book launches, Ebook Launch ensures fast delivery with unlimited revisions and a money-back guarantee.

Features

Custom eBook cover for ~$497, eBook + print cover for ~$595.
Includes royalty-free images, font licensing, and 3D mockups for marketing.
Unlimited revisions until approval, money-back guarantee.

Pros

Rapid service and strong value for the features offered.
Good for authors who need the final cover quickly or have marketing tied to the launch date.

Pricing

$497 for custom eBook only; $595 for eBook + print cover design.

Also read: 20 Best Comic Book Covers of All Time!

5. Damonza

Damonza specializes in premium custom eBook cover design for independent authors and small publishers. Their designs are known for high-quality visuals, modern layouts, and commercial appeal. With over 12,000 covers designed, Damonza brings experience across multiple genres, helping authors achieve bestseller-level presentation and strong visual branding.

Features

Custom cover design starting at around USD $395.
First drafts delivered within 10 business days.
Over 12,000 covers designed since 2012; used by both indie and traditional publishers.

Pros

High quality, contender for authors who want a premium cover investment.
Experience with many genres and formats.

Pricing

Starts at approx USD $395 for a custom cover design.

6. 100 Covers

100 Covers offers affordable and professional eBook cover design packages for authors who want a clean, market-ready look without spending too much. Their designs are simple yet impactful, making them perfect for new writers or indie authors on a tight budget. Despite the low pricing, they maintain strong quality and quick delivery for both eBook and print covers.

Features

Standard eBook cover for $100; print-ready options for $200; full plus-pack at $400.
Licensed fonts/images, 3D mockups, back cover, and spine included in higher tiers.

Pros

Very affordable, especially for eBook-only covers.
Good value for new or cost-conscious authors.

Pricing

From USD $100 for the eBook cover package.

7. GetCovers

GetCovers provides one of the most budget-friendly eBook cover design services, offering full transparency, unlimited revisions, and quick turnaround times. Their packages cater to different needs, from basic eBook covers to full print-ready designs, all at very low prices. This makes it a perfect pick for beginners and self-published authors.

Features

Packages: eBook cover basic: $10, standard: $20, premium: $35 (as per site pricing).
Unlimited free revisions, full source files, print-ready back & spine included in higher tiers.
100% money-back guarantee.

Pros

Extremely affordable entry point.
Great transparency and simplicity.

Pricing

From USD $10 for a basic eBook-cover design according to the listed packages.

Also read: 50 Timeless and Unforgettable Book Covers of All Time

8. CoverKitchen

CoverKitchen focuses on creative, art-driven eBook cover design that combines illustration, typography, and storytelling. It’s ideal for authors of literary, fantasy, or visually rich genres who want to stand out. Their designers emphasize artistic flair and originality, ensuring your cover reflects your story’s emotion and essence.

Features

Award-winning designers, emphasis on illustration, 3D imagery, typography.
Works with both eBook and print covers, tailored to genre aesthetics.

Pros

Strong artistic style, which can set a book apart.
Ideal for authors with visually driven stories or high-end design expectations.

Pricing

Exact pricing not published in snippet, but marketed as a premium service for authors seeking “unique” design.

9. MiblArt

MiblArt offers collaborative eBook cover design services where authors actively participate in shaping the final look. Their team provides options for both photo-manipulated and illustrated covers, ensuring flexibility for all genres. They focus on understanding each story deeply before starting design, resulting in covers that truly reflect the book’s theme.

Features

First concept within 9 business days for photo-manipulation; unlimited revisions.
Works with custom illustration as well; authors retained rights to final design.

Pros

Strong collaboration and revision policy.
Good for authors who want to have input and tailor covers to story specifics

Pricing

Exact starting price not listed, but process emphasizes value-for-money and flexibility.

10. TheBookCoverDesigner.com

TheBookCoverDesigner.com offers a collection of one-of-a-kind premade eBook covers, each sold only once. This makes it a perfect choice for authors who want a unique design at a lower cost than full custom services. You can browse hundreds of professionally made covers, find one that fits your story, and personalize it with your title and author name.

Features

Premade cover designs unique to the buyer: once sold, removed from the catalogue.
Customisation of text/fonts included; small changes allowed.

Pros

Unique design at a lower cost than a full custom cover.
Good for authors seeking uniqueness, but who have budget constraints.

Pricing

Example listed $159 for one cover design.

For authors in 2025, investing in a strong cover design is non-negotiable: it influences clicks, perceived quality, and reader trust. If you want a reliable all-rounder eBook cover designer, PaperTrue sits at the top of this list.

But depending on your budget, genre, timeline, or design needs, the other nine services offer excellent alternatives, from ultra-budget options to premium one-on-one custom design. Choose based on your genre, target audience, budget, and launch timeline, then commit to quality and consistency.

Read for more useful tips:

Best Manuscript Editing Services of 2025

Posted on November 7, 2025November 7, 2025 by Tanvi Sarnaik

More than a grammar check, your manuscript deserves that professional touch that refines your voice, sharpens pacing, and enhances readability. This year, 2025, authors have access to advanced editing services that merge the work of expert human insight with intelligent technologies in order to bring out the best in every story.

Be it a novel, a memoir, or even a research-based text, customized editing support has the ability to transform your writing from good into unforgettable. Most services provide flexible turnaround times, transparent pricing, and personalized feedback based on your style and needs.

In 2025, writers can find numerous manuscript editing services that offer a blend of human skill and intelligent tools. In this guide, we outline the best 10 manuscript editing services for authors in 2025. You’ll discover features, advantages, prices, and a comparison to enable you to choose what suits your writing style and budget.

Make your manuscript flawless and effective! Get Started

The top 10 manuscript editing services for authors in 2025 are:

1. PaperTrue

PaperTrue tops our list for its balanced blend of professional editors, affordable pricing, and author-friendly packages. It’s ideal for authors who want both grammatical accuracy and narrative polish, whether you’re writing fiction, memoirs, or short stories.

The platform combines human expertise with AI precision, ensuring that your manuscript not only reads well but also retains your unique writing voice. With transparent pricing, free sample edits, and 24/7 availability, PaperTrue makes professional editing accessible and reliable for every writer.

Features

3 tiers: Essential, Standard, and Premium editing packages
A combination of AI + human editing for precision
24/7 support and various turnaround options (from 1 hour to 7 days)
Free sample edit and price calculator

Pros

High-quality, reliable editing
Pricing and turnaround are clearly displayed
All genres and publishing objectives accepted

Pricing

Minimum $22 per 1,000 words (Standard package). Longer documents and premium editing are quote-as-required.

2. EditorWorld

EditorWorld is a trusted platform where authors can select their own editor based on experience and reviews. It’s especially useful for writers on a deadline who still want personalized, high-quality editing.

The ability to choose your editor adds a sense of control and transparency, making the collaboration process smoother. Whether you’re polishing a novel or refining a short story, EditorWorld ensures that your editor’s expertise matches your genre and style, helping you meet your goals efficiently.

Features

Choose from a pool of professional editors
Instant price calculator and turnaround selection
Developmental, copy, and line editing available

Pros

Editor transparency and communication
Ideal for tight deadlines
Multiple service tiers

Pricing

Starts at $0.034 per word for a 1-day turnaround; lower rates for longer deadlines.

3. Scribendi

Scribendi has been a go-to service for indie authors and self-publishers for over two decades. Its editors focus on readability, tone, and flow, ensuring your manuscript is ready for submission or publishing.

What sets Scribendi apart is its balance between speed and quality — you can get professional-level edits in just a few hours. With a reputation built on consistency and clear feedback, it’s a dependable choice for authors who value professional precision and responsive service.

Features

Quick turnaround (as fast as 4 hours)
Free sample edit option
Personalized editor notes and feedback

Pros

Consistent quality
Suitable for fiction, non-fiction, and short stories
Fast and reliable

Pricing

Around $50 per 1,000 words for standard editing.

Also read: Top 10 Book Editing Services of 2025

4. BookBaby

BookBaby is ideal for authors seeking an end-to-end publishing solution. With professional editing, it includes formatting, cover design, and book distribution — under one roof.

Beyond editing, it helps authors navigate the publishing process seamlessly, making it an excellent choice for first-time or independent writers. Its editors ensure your manuscript meets industry standards, while the design and publishing team helps you transform it into a ready-to-market book.

Features

Copy editing, line editing, and proofreading
Paired with formatting and publishing options
Clear pricing by word count

Pros

Complete publishing support
Ideal for indie writers
Professional quality control

Pricing

Proofreading: $0.015/word
Copy editing: $0.025/word
Line editing: $0.04/word

5. Reedsy

Reedsy matches writers with seasoned freelance book editors who have edited for major publishing houses. It’s perfect for writers who want a tailor-made match for their genre and style.

The platform’s curated marketplace ensures that every editor has proven credentials and a strong publication background. From developmental edits to stylistic polishing, Reedsy’s collaborative approach allows authors to build long-term professional relationships with trusted editors.

Features

Handpicked pool of professional book editors
Author profiles and portfolios for easy selection
Safe communication and payment system

Pros

Pick your own editor
Very high-quality professionals
Good for all genres, from romance to literary fiction

Pricing

Varies per editor — generally between $0.02 and $0.05 per word.

6. Enago

Enago stands out for its expertise-based editing, particularly for writers of non-fiction or technical texts. It matches you with editors who are knowledgeable in your field and assures academic-level accuracy.

The service is known for its scientific rigor and attention to factual integrity, making it an excellent choice for research-based or data-driven manuscripts. Authors benefit from detailed editorial suggestions that enhance clarity, coherence, and subject precision.

Features

Subject-specialist editors
Substantive and copy editing
Plagiarism and style consistency checks

Pros

Solid technical and factual accuracy
Research-based authors’ best choice
Highly professional editorial standards

Pricing

Begins at approximately $170 per 1,000 words for professional-level editing.

Also read: Quick Guide to Book Editing [Complete Process & Standard Rates]

7. Wordvice

Wordvice provides a comprehensive editing process that extends beyond language improvement to cover clarity, logic, and readability. It’s ideal for writers who prefer extensive editorial feedback.

Each manuscript receives detailed comments that help authors grow their writing skills while improving the text’s overall impact. Whether you’re working on literary fiction, hybrid genres, or academic narratives, Wordvice’s approach ensures that your writing is both polished and purposeful.

Features

Several editing levels
Customized comments and suggestions
Rapid turnaround (9 hours to 7 days)

Pros

Detailed, constructive edits
Apt for hybrid genres and academic fiction
Flexible and budget-friendly

Pricing

From $88 per 1,000 words, based on turnaround.

8. Proofed

Proofed serves writers who value a boutique experience — customized feedback, tone consistency, and stylistic polish that enhance voice and storytelling. The editors take a personal approach to each manuscript, helping refine sentence flow and narrative rhythm.

Proofed is particularly suited for authors who care deeply about maintaining their creative tone while achieving professional-grade refinement. Its combination of linguistic precision and storytelling sensitivity makes it a great choice for creative manuscripts.

Features

Hand-selected editorial staff
Grammar, structure, and flow enhancements
Multiple language support

Pros

Customized approach
Ideal for mid-length manuscripts
Consistent turnaround

Pricing:

It varies for different projects; premium projects can be around $2,000+ for 100,000 words.

Also read: What is Manuscript Critique? Benefits, Process, & Cost

9. ProofreadingPal

ProofreadingPal is intended for writers who have finished their editing and require a final proofread prior to publication. Each manuscript goes through two editors for absolute accuracy.

This dual-review system ensures that no grammatical or formatting errors slip through, delivering a final product that’s publication-ready. Its structured process and clear pricing make it ideal for authors who want a meticulous, last-stage polish before release.

Features

Dual-editor review process
Grammar, punctuation, and formatting emphasis
Rapid turnaround options

Pros

Double-checked accuracy
Discounted for final-stage editing
Guaranteed delivery times

Pricing

Between $34–$44 per 1,000 words, depending on speed.

10. Oxford Editing

Oxford Editing boasts a heritage of high-quality editorial excellence. It’s best for authors who want polished language, a professional finish, and a uniform tone for literary or academic works.

With a strong background in academic and publishing standards, its editors provide in-depth insights that elevate manuscripts to professional-grade quality. Authors who value precision, structure, and intellectual integrity will find Oxford Editing an excellent long-term partner for refining their craft.

Features

Professional editors with publishing experience
Sample edit free 10%
Thorough editorial feedback

Pros

High-quality and meticulous
Suitable for literary and non-fiction pieces
Rely on professionals

Pricing

From $65 for every 1,000 words for overall editing.

If you’re a writer set to publish your next bestseller, spending on the top manuscript editing service ensures your tale arrives with readers in its finest form.

PaperTrue excels in affordability, consistency, and human touch — the ideal choice for most writers.
Reedsy and BookBaby are top-notch if you prefer greater creative input or full-service publishing assistance.
For technical or non-fiction books, Enago and Wordvice provide premium accuracy.

In 2025, exceptional editing is no longer a choice — it’s the key to being noticed in a saturated author market.

From developmental feedback, which shapes and molds the structure of your story, to meticulous proofreading that ensures perfection, the right editing partner will help you transform your draft into a polished, publication-ready masterpiece.

In the competitive panorama of literature, professional editing is not just an added extra; it’s a creative investment in the clarity, precision, and impact your words have with every reader. Let your manuscript shine exactly as you envisioned it.

As a creative writer, the manuscript you work so hard to create is worth more than a simple spell-check. A professional editing service can polish your voice and maximize pacing. It cuts distractions and helps your work stand out in a crowded marketplace. To ensure your manuscript is flawless from cover to cover, PaperTrue’s manuscript editing services have got you covered. We get your manuscript publishing-ready!

Keep on reading for more resources:

How to Avoid AI Detection in 2025 (6 Proven Techniques!)

Posted on November 6, 2025November 7, 2025 by Tanvi Sarnaik

AI writing tools have dramatically changed the way we create content, making it faster and more efficient. But with these advances come worries about authenticity and plagiarism.

As AI-generated text gets more advanced, detecting it becomes more important. This article offers 6 practical tips to help you avoid AI detection, so your content stays genuine and humanised!

Get high-quality editing services today!

How AI detection tools work

AI detection tools work by analyzing the patterns and characteristics of text and comparing them to a vast database of AI-generated content. They look for telltale signs like:

Repetitive sentence structures: AI often produces repetitive sentence structures and phrasing, lacking the natural variation found in human writing.
Lack of nuance and emotion: AI struggles to convey complex emotions or nuanced perspectives, often resulting in bland and generic AI-generated text.
Unnatural word choices: AI might use uncommon or awkward word choices, lacking the natural flow and vocabulary of human writers.
Predictable content: AI-generated content can be predictable and formulaic, lacking the originality and creativity of human thought.

Also read: 10 Best AI Writer Tools Every Writer Should Know About

So then how to avoid AI detection? Don’t worry! Using our practical tips will give you the best way to avoid AI detection.

6 Tips to avoid AI detection

Here are some tips to help you avoid AI detection in your writing:

1. Humanize your content

Embrace variation: Use a mix of sentence lengths, structures, and phrasing to avoid repetitive patterns.

For example, instead of writing “The dog ran. The dog barked. The dog chased the ball,” try “The dog, a blur of brown fur, sprinted across the lawn, a joyful bark escaping its throat as it chased after the bouncing ball.”

Incorporate personal experiences: Bring your writing to life by sharing your own stories and experiences. This adds authenticity and makes your message more relatable.

For example, instead of just stating a fact, tell a personal story to illustrate it.

Show emotion and passion: Let your feelings and opinions shine through in your writing. Use expressive adjectives and adverbs like eager, strongly, etc. They will convey your emotions and add a personal touch. Don’t hold back from showing how you feel about the topic.

2. Enhance your writing style

Use different sentence structures: Vary your sentences to show a good grasp of grammar and syntax.

For example, rather than writing, “The cat sat on the mat. The cat was fluffy,” try something more descriptive like, “The fluffy cat, with its emerald eyes, settled contentedly on the worn, striped mat.”

Employ a wide vocabulary: Use a diverse range of words, including synonyms, to avoid repetitive phrasing.

For example, instead of saying, “The man was happy,” you might say, “The man beamed with joy.”

Add figurative language: Use metaphors, similes, and other literary devices to make your writing more vivid and engaging.

For instance, rather than stating, “The sunset was beautiful,” you could write, “The sky blazed with fiery hues, painting the horizon with a breathtaking masterpiece.”

3. Focus on originality and creativity

Develop your own ideas: Don’t rely solely on AI for inspiration. Brainstorm your own ideas, research thoroughly, and develop unique perspectives.
Be original: Avoid copying or paraphrasing existing content, even if it’s AI-generated. Focus on creating something fresh and original.

Also read: 10 Best Free Plagiarism Checkers of 2024 [100% Free Tools]

4. Use AI only as a tool

Start with a human draft: Use AI to generate ideas and outlines, but always start with a human-written draft as the foundation.
Refine and edit: Don’t rely solely on AI-generated text. Refine and edit the content to reflect your voice and writing style. You can use AI writers, content editors, etc., to polish your text. If your goal is simply to avoid detection by AI content tools, use an authentic AI humanizer specifically designed for that purpose.
Focus on quality: Prioritize quality over quantity. Create well-written, engaging, and properly edited content that demonstrates your expertise and creativity.

5. Rewrite to avoid AI detection

Rephrase to avoid AI detection: AI detection tools often flag repetitive phrases and structures.
Use synonyms: Replace common words with synonyms to avoid predictable patterns.

For example, instead of writing “The dog was big,” try “The dog was massive.”

Add transitions: Use transition words and phrases to connect ideas and create a more natural flow.

For example, instead of writing “The cat was hungry. The cat ate the food,” try “The cat was feeling hungry, so it devoured the food with gusto.”

Understanding how to avoid AI detection is an ongoing process. As AI technology continues to evolve, so will the methods used to detect it. You can ensure your content remains original by staying informed about the latest advancements in AI and continuously refining your writing practices.

After writing your content, consider enlisting the help of expert editing and proofreading services like those at PaperTrue. Our team can help polish your work and ensure it passes any AI detection test with flying colors!

Keep reading for more useful content:

Top 10 AI Rewriters for Perfect Text in 2025 (Free & Paid)

Posted on November 3, 2025November 3, 2025 by Tanvi Sarnaik

Explore our list of the 10 best AI rewriters! We’ve also included both paid and free AI rewriter tools. With this, we’ve also given the pros and cons of every rewriting tool.

Whether you’re searching for essay rewriters, article rewriters, sentence rewriters, or paragraph rewriters, this list will help. So without wasting time, let’s get started!

Enhance your AI-rewritten content with meticulous editing!

What Are AI Rewriters and Why Do You Need Them

AI rewriter tools, also known as paraphrasing tools or text spinners, use advanced natural language processing and machine learning algorithms to automatically rephrase sentences, paragraphs, or entire articles. These content rewriting tools analyze your input text, understand its context and meaning, then generate alternative versions using different words, sentence structures, and expressions while preserving the core message.

For students, professionals, content creators, and businesses, AI-powered rewriting software offers invaluable benefits: saving time on content creation, avoiding unintentional plagiarism, improving readability, and generating multiple variations of the same content for different platforms or audiences.

The top 10 AI rewriters of 2025 are:

1. Spin Rewriter

Spin Rewriter uses Large Language Models to understand your article’s meaning and rewrite it. Using Spin Rewriter, you can generate 1,000 variations of your original article. It is ideal for content marketers and SEO professionals who need bulk content variations.

Pros

Unlike many rewriters, it can modify entire sentence structures and create completely new paragraphs.
An option to insert relevant videos and images into your articles.
An advanced feature to reorder paragraphs, lists, and humanize the content, and enrich the article with headings, bullet points, etc.

Cons

This rewriting tool doesn’t have a customized option where you can specify the tone.
It doesn’t have options to specify the writing style like other rewriter tools.
It’s more expensive in the long term than other tools.

Price: Users can opt for a monthly package of $47 per month or make a lifetime purchase for $497.

2. QuillBot

QuillBot is an effective tool that can help you rewrite content in 20+ languages, including English, Danish, Dutch, Italian, etc. It gives synonyms and can change entire sentence structures to rewrite sentences and paragraphs. It creates natural-sounding paraphrases for academic papers, essays, and professional documents.

Pros

Various modes in AI humanizer to rewrite the content, such as Natural, Formal, Academic, Simple, Fluency, Natural, etc.
This rewriter tool has options to expand or shorten the rewritten text.
Detailed statistics of the word count, readability, character count, sentence count, etc.

Cons

No option to insert images and videos in the article.
You can rewrite only 125 words using the free plan.
Various modes, such as Formal, Academic, Simple, Creative, Custom, Expand, and Shorten, can only be accessed by upgrading paid premium packages.

Price: The paid version costs $4.17 per month.

3. WordAI

WordAI’s effective AI text rewriter can alter entire sentence structures and split sentences to change the meaning. This tool can also be used as an essay rewriter and a paper rewriter.

Pros

It can rewrite multiple articles at the same time.
It can create content that can easily pass detection by AI detectors.
It can give 1,000 variations of the same text and has the option to view and edit rewritten text in HTML.

Cons

The option to get customized rewrites as per requirements and instructions is only a part of the Enterprise package and not the Starter/Power packages.
It’s more expensive compared to many free rewriter tools.
The tool doesn’t have options to add relevant images and videos to the content like other available tools.

Price: Users can opt for a 3-day free trial, after which they need to select a paid package. The monthly package cost starts from $17 per month.

4. WriterBuddy

WriterBuddy’s powerful sentence rewriter can be used by students, marketers, and other professionals. It can generate unique content by spinning existing content at a fast pace. This efficient sentence rewriter supports multiple languages and delivers plagiarism-free results at impressive speeds.

Pros

This tool can rewrite content in 10+ languages, including English, German, Portuguese, Spanish, etc.
It provides plagiarism-free content.
You can generate 10 variations of the original text.

Cons

It has no options to select a tone (e.g., casual, friendly, or formal) or mention the desired tone for the text.
There are no features to add relevant images and videos to the text.
There is no option to shorten or expand the content for rewriting.

Price: WriterBuddy is a free AI rewriter

Also read: 10 Best AI Writer Tools Every Writer Should Know About

5. Ahrefs

Using Ahrefs’ free AI paragraph rewriter, you can generate 1-5 samples of rewritten content or up to 500 words per session. This tool can also be used as a paper rewriter. This tool excels at maintaining context while offering multiple tone options for different writing purposes.

Pros

You can rewrite 500+ words at a time.
You can generate content in 10+ languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, Albanian, and more.
It offers various tone options, such as casual, friendly, professional, diplomatic, engaging, and persuasive. With this, it also has a custom option where you can specify the tone.

Cons

It can generate only 5 rewritten variations of the original content.
The AI tool doesn’t modify all sentence structures while rewriting.
This AI paragraph writer doesn’t have a word changer like other AI rewriter tools.

Price: Ahrefs is a free AI rewriter tool

6. Smodin

Smodin is an advanced tool that can rewrite 1000 words at a time. It can also create high-quality SEO-focused content within seconds. This platform is perfect for digital marketing and web publishing content.

Pros

It has an option where the user can specify the writing style for writing content.
You can rewrite content in multiple languages, including English, Arabic, Chinese, Portuguese, Tamil, Telugu, etc.
It has a “Recreate” option that allows you to create completely new, rewritten articles that convey the same, original meaning.

Cons

You can use it only 3 times for free in a week.
The option to specify your writing style is not a part of the paid plan.
This AI text rewriter doesn’t have options like a word changer, adding related videos and images to the article, and detailed statistics like other tools.

Price: This tool has both a paid and a free version. The cost for the paid version starts from $15 per month.

7. Dupli Checker

DupliChecker, a versatile online platform, offers its exceptional AI-driven paraphrasing tool to help users precisely rephrase content in various languages. You can use it to make content written in languages like English, French, Spanish, German, Portuguese, and other languages clear and engaging. Its intuitive interface makes the process super easy and convenient for users belonging to any demographic. You only need to provide the text and let the tool do its job to get quality paraphrases.

Pros

It gives synonyms and also has an option to check for plagiarism.
This rewriter tool has a feature to check grammar and rectify any grammatical errors.
If you’re dissatisfied, you can regenerate and get different variations of the same text.

Cons

Using the free version of this AI rewriting tool, you can only rewrite 2000 words at a time.
Features such as 3 modes to modify are not a part of the free version.
The paid version only allows you to rewrite 25,000 words and doesn’t have the option to rewrite unlimited words like other tools.

Price: It is a freemium tool offering both free and paid versions. The paid version starts at $10 per month.

8. Semrush

Using Semrush’s free AI rewriter, you can easily rewrite the content by pasting the text in the tool. You can also download a free extension of this tool to use it on Chrome. It provides instant paraphrasing with readability insights.

Pros

You get specific statistics about the readability, tone of voice, and word count.
You can easily copy and save the rewritten paragraph to the device.
It gives suggestions in different language tones, such as formal and casual.

Cons

You can only rewrite 200 words at a time.
This tool gives only 3 variations of rewritten content.
It doesn’t have options such as word changer and rewriting content in other languages like other rewriter tools.

Price: Semrush has a free AI rewriter

9. Article Rewriter Tool

This is a reliable tool for rewriting sentences, paragraphs, and whole articles. You can install its extension on Chrome to use it. This straightforward rewriting solution handles up to 10,000 words per session, making it ideal for long-form content like research papers and ebooks.

Pros

It has a simple, user-friendly interface where you can easily paste the text.
It can rewrite 10,000 words at a time. This can help rewrite content generated by AI essay writers.
It gives you an option to rewrite capitalized words if required.

Cons

The ‘Basic Rewrite’ option doesn’t include modes or other tone options like Friendly, Formal, Casual, etc, like other tools.
Article Rewriter Tool doesn’t have a word changer like other tools.
The rewritten content contains grammatical errors.

Price: It’s a free AI rewriting tool

Also read: A Complete Guide on How to Use ChatGPT to Write a Resume

10. Article Rewriter

Article Rewriter includes a free AI sentence rewriter and an AI word rewriter. You can use this tool to create blog posts, academic writing, and marketing content.

Pros

It also has a plagiarism checker.
It generates the rewritten content at a fast pace.
This article rewriter has no word count limit, allowing you to paste unlimited content for rewriting.

Cons

The plagiarism remover, paragraph rewriter, and AI rewriter can only be used by upgrading to the pro version.
There are no options to change the tone to casual, friendly, formal, etc.
There is no option to rewrite content in languages other than English.

Price: It costs $5 per week for the paragraph rewriter, $5 per week for the plagiarism checker, and $5 per week for the AI rewriter.

Choosing the Right AI Rewriter for Your Needs

Selecting the best AI paraphrasing tool depends on your specific requirements. For academic writing and research papers, consider tools with formal and academic modes like QuillBot or WordAI. Content marketers needing bulk variations should explore Spin Rewriter or Smodin. Budget-conscious users can start with free options like WriterBuddy, Ahrefs, or the Article Rewriter Tool.

Remember that while AI rewriters excel at generating alternative text versions, human editing remains crucial for ensuring accuracy, maintaining voice consistency, and preserving nuanced meaning. These tools work best as writing assistants rather than complete replacements for human creativity and judgment.

Now that you know the best AI rewriters, you can select the best one to rewrite the content. Once you rewrite the text, the next step will be to edit it. As experts in editing and proofreading services, we’d love to help you perfect your text.

Here are some other useful resources for you:

How to Cite an Artwork: APA, MLA, & Chicago

Posted on October 31, 2025October 31, 2025 by Tanvi Sarnaik

A major part of academic integrity is citing your sources correctly. Whether you have viewed a painting, sculpture, or digital image online, in a catalog, or in person at a museum, our go-to guide will help you cite these works of art efficiently in APA, MLA, and Chicago formats.

Have You Cited Your Artwork Correctly? Check With Experts! Get Started

Information you need before you cite artwork

Here is a checklist of the basic information you require before you cite an artwork. These parameters will help you put together a comprehensive and efficient citation:

Artist’s name
Title of the artwork
Year of creation
Medium (e.g., oil on canvas, marble, photograph)
Dimensions (optional)
Holding institution (museum, gallery, or private collection)
City
URL (if online)
Website name (for MLA)
Access date (Chicago only if no publication date is available)

Where to find these details

Now that you know what information you need to create your citation, here are some places where you can find the information you’re looking for:

Museum websites (e.g., The Met, MoMA)
Catalog records and exhibition labels
Art databases like Artstor, Oxford Art Online
If any of the required data is missing:
- Use “n.d.” for no date
- Use a brief description in quotes for any untitled works

Also Read: 5 Reasons Why It Is Important to Cite Your Sources

How to cite a painting you viewed online

In the digital era, the easiest and most common method to source an artwork is to look it up on the internet simply. Here is a quick and practical guide on how to cite a painting you have viewed online:

APA:

Leutze, E. (1851). Washington Crossing the Delaware [Painting]. Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY, United States. https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/11417

MLA:

Leutze, Emmanuel. Washington Crossing the Delaware. 1851. The Met, www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/11417..

Chicago:

Leutze, Emmanuel. Washington Crossing the Delaware. 1851. Oil on canvas. 149 x 255 in. Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York. https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/11417

Common mistakes

Here are some common errors people make and points that are often forgotten when citing an artwork, and how to avoid them:

Remember that APA requires the medium in brackets (e.g., [Painting])
Remember that MLA italicizes website titles
Remember that Chicago includes the medium and dimensions
Remember not to add a period after URLs in APA

How to cite a painting you saw in person

If you saw a painting in person—say, at a museum—you would likely not have a URL to add to your citation. Here’s how to properly cite an artwork seen in person using APA, MLA, and Chicago styles:

APA:

Leutze, E. (1851). Washington Crossing the Delaware [Painting]. Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY, United States.

If a stable museum page exists, you may include the URL. Otherwise, it is better to end after the location.

MLA:

Leutze, Emmanuel. Washington Crossing the Delaware. 1851, Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York.

Chicago:

Leutze, Emmanuel. Washington Crossing the Delaware. 1851. Oil on canvas. 149 x 255 in. Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York.

How to cite photographs, sculptures, and other artworks

Artworks are not limited to paintings—they also include other formats of artistic expression, such as photographs, sculptures, etc. Here’s how to cite them correctly in APA, MLA, and Chicago formats:

APA variations:

Adams, A. (1942). Moonrise over Hernandez [Photograph]. Museum of Modern Art, New York, NY, United States.

Rodin, A. (1904). The Thinker [Sculpture]. Musée Rodin, Paris, France.

MLA variations:

Adams, Ansel. Moonrise over Hernandez. 1942. MoMA, New York.

Rodin, Auguste. The Thinker. 1904. Musée Rodin, Paris.

For untitled works, it is advisable to use a brief description in place of the title (without italics):

“Portrait of a Woman.” ca. 1800 BCE. Terracotta, National Museum, New Delhi.

Chicago variations:

Adams, Ansel. Moonrise over Hernandez. 1942. Photograph. Museum of Modern Art, New York.

Rodin, Auguste. The Thinker. 1904. Bronze. Musée Rodin, Paris.

Also Read: Complete Guide to MLA 9th Format

How to cite reproductions of artwork in books and journals

Artworks are often reproduced in books and journals for wider viewership. Here’s how to correctly cite an artwork you have viewed in a book or journal:

APA

Book:

Van Gogh, V. (1889). Starry Night [Oil on canvas]. In F. S. Kleiner (Ed.), Gardner’s Art Through the Ages (15th ed., p. 812). Cengage.

Journal:

Van Gogh, V. (1889). Starry Night [Oil on canvas]. In J. Smith, “The Symbolism of Night in Post-Impressionism,” Art History Quarterly, 22(3), 45–60.

MLA

Book:

Van Gogh, Vincent. Starry Night. 1889. Gardner’s Art Through the Ages, 15th ed., edited by Fred S. Kleiner, Cengage, 2016, p. 812.

Journal:

Van Gogh, Vincent. Starry Night. 1889. Art History Quarterly, vol. 22, no. 3, 2016, p. 45.

Chicago

Book

Footnote:

Vincent van Gogh, Starry Night, 1889, oil on canvas, in Fred S. Kleiner, ed., Gardner’s Art Through the Ages, 15th ed. (Boston: Cengage, 2016), 812.

Bibliography:

Van Gogh, Vincent. Starry Night. 1889. Oil on canvas. In Gardner’s Art Through the Ages, 15th ed., edited by Fred S. Kleiner, 812. Boston: Cengage, 2016.

Journal

Footnote:

Vincent van Gogh, Starry Night, 1889, oil on canvas, discussed in Jane Smith, “The Symbolism of Night in Post-Impressionism,” Art History Quarterly 22, no. 3 (2016): 45.

Bibliography:

Van Gogh, Vincent. Starry Night. 1889. Oil on canvas. Discussed in Smith, Jane. “The Symbolism of Night in Post-Impressionism.” Art History Quarterly 22, no. 3 (2016): 45–60.

In the Chicago style, it is recommended to use captions and figure labelings, like so:

Fig. 1. Vincent van Gogh, Starry Night, 1889, oil on canvas, Museum of Modern Art, New York.

In-text citations for artwork

An in-text citation is one that appears in the midst of a passage of text, not in the footnotes or bibliography. Here’s how to cite artwork in-text correctly in APA, MLA, and Chicago formats:

APA:

(Leutze, 1851) Or narrative: Leutze (1851) depicted…

If no artist: (“Portrait of a Woman,” n.d.)

MLA:

(Leutze) In prose: Emmanuel Leutze’s Washington Crossing the Delaware…

Chicago:

Use footnotes referencing your full entry. When referring to figures, cite as follows:

(fig. 1)

Captions and figures

Here’s how to cite and caption figures as per APA, MLA, and Chicago styles:

1. APA

Label the figure as Figure 1 and include the following details in the caption:

Artist
Title (italicized)
Medium
Date
Location
URL (if online)

Eg., Figure 1 Vincent van Gogh, Starry Night, oil on canvas, 1889, Museum of Modern Art, New York, https://www.moma.org/collection/works/79802.

2. MLA

Label as Fig. 1. and include the following details in the caption:

Artist
Title (italicized)
Date
Medium
Holding institution
City

E.g.: Figure 1. Vincent van Gogh, Starry Night, 1889, oil on canvas, Museum of Modern Art, New York, USA. https://www.moma.org/collection/works/79802.

3. Chicago

Label the figure as Figure 1 or Fig. 1. and include the following details in the caption:

Artist
Title (italicized)
Medium
Date
Location
URL (if online)

E.g.: Figure 1. Vincent van Gogh, Starry Night, 1889, oil on canvas, Museum of Modern Art, New York, USA. https://www.moma.org/collection/works/79802.

Always remember to place the caption directly below the figure.

Common issues and how to troubleshoot them

Here are some common issues faced due to a lack of sufficient information about the artwork, and how to fix them:

1. Unknown artist or date:

Use “Anonymous” or omit the artist
Use “n.d.” for “no date”

2. Untitled works:

MLA: Use a brief description in quotes (e.g., “Portrait of a Woman”)
APA: Use a description in place of the title, let the medium remain in brackets

3. Multiple creators, series, or alternate titles:

List a primary creator
Include additional contributors if relevant (e.g., photographer, editor)
For series, cite individual works or the series title (as required)

How to cite a digital artwork

A digital artwork refers to a work of art produced using digital tools, usually accessed online. Here’s how to cite digital artworks correctly using APA, MLA, and Chicago formats:

APA

Format: Artist, A. A. (Year). Title of artwork [Digital artwork]. Website Name. URL

Example: Devi, A. (2023). Digital Bloom [Digital painting]. DeviArtStudio. https://www.deviartstudio.com/digital-bloom

MLA

Format: Artist Last, First. Title of Artwork. Date. Website Title, URL.

Example: Devi, Anjali. Digital Bloom. 2023. DeviArtStudio, www.deviartstudio.com/digital-bloom.

Chicago

Format: Artist Last, First. Title of Artwork. Year. Digital artwork. Website Name. URL.

Example: Devi, Anjali. Digital Bloom. 2023. Digital painting. DeviArtStudio. https://www.deviartstudio.com/digital-bloom

How to cite your own artwork

Here’s how to cite your own artwork in APA, MLA, and Chicago styles. Remember to use “author’s collection” if the work is not yet publicly displayed.

APA

Format: Last Name, Initial. (Year). Title of artwork [Medium]. Author’s collection.

Example: Patel, R. (2023). Whispering Monsoon [Digital painting]. Author’s collection.

MLA

Format: Last Name, First Name. Title of Artwork. Year, Medium, Author’s collection.

Example: Patel, Riya. Whispering Monsoon. 2023, Digital painting, Author’s collection.

Chicago

Format: Last Name, First Name. Title of Artwork. Year. Medium. Dimensions (if applicable). Author’s collection.

Example: Patel, Riya. Whispering Monsoon. 2023. Digital painting. 24 x 36 in. Author’s collection.

Copy-paste mini cheat sheet

Now that you have got the basics of citing different works of art in place, here is a copy-paste-ready cheat sheet of citation templates to help you out when you’re in a rush:

1. APA

Artist, A. A. (Year). Title [Medium]. Museum, City, State/Country. URL

2. MLA

Artist Last, First. Title. Year, Museum, City. Website Title, URL.

3. Chicago

Artist Last, First. Title. Year. Medium. Dimensions. Museum, City. URL.

Citing artwork correctly is a way to honor and give credit to the artists behind them while simultaneously making it easier for potential art enthusiasts to look up the masterpieces you have referenced. Mastering these citation techniques will help you bring more visibility to the works cited while also maintaining your academic integrity and respecting the artists who created them.

You can always take help from PaperTrue’s expert editing services for flawless citations. Our experienced editors will make your citations and formatting perfect!

Here are some more resources that may help you:

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Subject → Verb → Direct Object → Object Complement (SVOC)

Subject → Verb → Direct Object → Adverbial Complement (SVDOAC)

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