How To Win an Essay Contest

Entering an essay contest is a challenge and honing your skills will give you a better chance to win. An essay is normally a short piece of writing based on the writer's own point of view. Judges in an essay contest look for structure, clarity, and expression. Before starting, it is important to organize your thoughts and perhaps jot down a few key words or phrases to set you off in the right direction. There are certain basic rules of thumb that will give your essay a better chance of winning.

• Spelling and Grammar - If there is anything that will assure an essay will not win; it is sloppy spelling errors and misuse of grammar. Most word processor programs have a spell check option which should be used. Turning in a meticulous essay free of these errors will go far in raising your chances of winning no matter what the essay is about.
• Structure - Essays, like anybody of written work, should have a beginning, middle and an end. The first part should introduce the reader to the subject of your essay. The middle or body of your work should be the longest. The final sentences should sum up the essay. Sometimes writing your last sentence before starting can help propel your thought processes to that end.
• Paint a Picture - If you are to win an essay contest, what you write must be lively and interesting. Using sensory details, descriptive phrases, and meaningful metaphors will make your essay more appealing to the judges. It is a matter of not just saying something but painting a scene that will engage the reader.
• Be Honest - It is not necessary to use flowery writing and too many adjectives to create a winning essay. What impresses a contest judge is clear straightforwardness and honest language. Choosing the right words can be more descriptive than adding extra words to make a point. Do this and you're on your way to winning an essay contest.

As the writer, you are in control. Accept the challenge and make the essay your own. Make sure the subject of the essay is one that inspires you. Doing this will motivate your writing style and allow you to create something worth reading. Putting your thoughts to paper has many benefits as well. The most important of these is a sense of art and accomplishment. This will carry over to the reader and increase the chances of winning an essay contest.