2011 Quill Winner of Best New Contest! Thanks, Andrew!
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The banner for the Character Sketch Challenge](http://www.Writing.Com/main/trans.gif)
Image created by: Roxiie
Objectives
There are many aspects to writing a well-crafted character. One that is complex in execution and as real as your best friend or next-door neighbor. This contest was created to help writers stretch their expectations of how to create a compelling character. Whether you choose to write the hero or the villain, if you take up the gauntlet, you will explore all the facets of the character you've created.
Round Five has a special theme: Music.
Instead of the regular writing prompts, a song with lyrics and a key word will be given for contestants. If you are musically inclined, this writing challenge is definitely worth attempting.
Guidelines
Pay close attention to the guidelines, especially during special theme rounds.
Contestants must choose at least one (1) character, no more than three (3), for the course of competition round. This only needs to be declared once - in forum or in item. Any genre, writing case, or rating is accepted. [Addendum: You need to have enough space in your portfolio to hold twenty items or one book. If you don't have this capability, consider making a blog off-site.]
Each day a prompt will be announced. Contestants have twenty-four (24) hours to respond to the prompt, which requires something new be examined about their chosen character. Post a new entry every day in the forum for verification. [Addendum: You will have three (3) strikes on late posts. This will effect you during judging. If you pass three strikes, you may possibly be dropped.]
The minimum word requirement for each entry is 500 words. There is no maximum word requirement, so feel free to write as much as you wish. Word count for each entry should be put at the bottom or top. The main goal is to explore new territory in character development; try to refrain from posting writing not new to the competition.
Judging will be based on character growth, creativity, and consistency in terms of answering prompts on a timely manner as well as personality of character. While grammar and punctuation is not necessarily first priority, please try to keep errors to a minimum.
Standard guidelines still apply. In case of the special theme, the musical prompt must be featured in some part of your entry. If you do not place a part of the song, the lyrics, or the key word into your entry it will be considered late.
Clarification on how to use the song and focus word for each prompt.
For the song, I'm looking for inspiration of the lyrics or song. If the tone of the song struck you, but the lyrics do nothing for you, go with the tone of the song. If the lyrics work for you, but the tone of the song makes you want to scream, use the lyrics. If you use the lyrics, they do not need to be highlighted. A small note in your post or at the end of your entry works.
Deadlines
New round begins April 15th. Read up on deadlines for entry posts.
Entry into the contest is limited to the first twenty-five (25) writers who sign up with five (5) back-up contestants in case some members drop out. Back-up contestants will participate with the rest of the group, but may or may not qualify for prizes. To sign up, post your intent in the blog with the book item or folder where the contestants’ daily entries will be stored.
The challenge will begin April 15th at 12:15 AM (Writing.com Time). Each round will be held for twenty-four hours and is due no later than 12:14 AM (Writing.com Time) the following day. The challenge will conclude twenty-days after the start date; judging will take approximately two weeks.
Spoils to Victors
1st Place Winner
An Orange 50k Awardicon + An "Attention To Detail" MB
2nd Place Winner
An Orange 25k Awardicon + An "Attention To Detail" MB
3rd Pace Winner
An Orange 10k Awardicon + An "Attention To Detail" MB
Honorable Mention will be awarded if deemed appropriate by judges.
Winners
Winners for ROUND FOUR
1st Place Winner
2nd Place Winner
Honorable Mention Winner
Congratulations to everyone!
FAQ
 If you would like to become a judge or have any questions about the contest, feel free to drop me a line at Hendrix In A Cardigan ![View stoneveritas's Portfolio. [Offline / Private]](http://images.Writing.Com/imgs/writing.com/writers/costumicons/ps-icon-regular-2nd.gif) .
 If you would like to make a donation to help out the brave and noble sketchers taking this challenge, send gift points to Group ID 1791712 - " Sketchers Guild"  . All donations are greatly appreciated! Those who donate over 35k will be awarded a Merit Badge for their generosity.
 Another challenge to check out if you're interested in continuing character development:
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