New writers are always looking for an outlet--ANY outlet--to get their work published, and the revolution in publishing has increased the number of new writers dramatically. The combination of those two elements has created a wonderful opportunity for fraud and abuse at the expense of fledgling wordsmiths, often in the form of "contests".

A good general rule about contests is:

• You are the writer. You get paid for what you produce.
• You do NOT pay others for the right to read your words.
• Anyone who asks for money from you to read your work (or asks for money to include your work in a "contest") is probably about to swindle you.

The Exception - Writers of the Future

The L. Ron Hubbard Writers of the Future (WOTF) contest is an international SF short fiction contest for new writers that has a long, reputable history. Prizes include publication in the annual anthology, a one week workshop taught by SF pros, and up to $6000 in prize money and publication fees.

WOTF does not charge an entry fee, and all rights in the story remain the property of the author. All types of science fiction, fantasy and horror with fantastic elements are welcome.

The contest has quarterly judgings, so ALWAYS send whatever story you've got ready to go. They are not always quick about it, but they do ALWAYS eventually write back.

Our own Jake Jacobs is a finalist in the 2000 WOTF contest and will be attending the workshop next summer. Drop him a line if you have questions about WOTF and his experiences--he'd be happy to share.