1. About this Newsletter 2. A Word from our Sponsor 3. Letter from the Editor 4. Editor's Picks 5. A Word from Writing.Com 6. Ask & Answer 7. Removal instructions
Hosting anything for the community here can be a lot of fun. It can also be a lot of work. One way to keep the fun going and the work to a reasonable minimum is to explain exactly what is asked of the participants.
Some things that need to be easy to see:
When does it start and when does it end.
What is the topic or theme of the activity/contest?
Are there any prizes? Can we see it on the page?
Who is/are the judge/s?
How long until participants can expect feedback?
If it's a fundraiser: who benefits?
Are there any content, rating, or topic limitations?
All the above can, even should be, presented in large bullet points. They convey facts.
The next part is to write up one or two short paragraphs that elaborate on the nature of the contest or activity. These paragraphs should include anything that can't be simply stated in a bullet point. This would also be the place to include links to other places that can help with the understanding of the activity or contest.
Ideally, a contest host should ask one or two trusted members here for a review of the contest/activity page before making it public. And then, take the reviews serious. If someone gives constructive critique or says they don't understand something, you have to rewrite some of the instructions to clarify what you want to say.
Which are the best and worst contest or activity pages you've seen here?
Have an opinion on what you've read here today? Then send the Editor feedback! Find an item that you think would be perfect for showcasing here? Submit it for consideration in the newsletter! https://www.Writing.Com/go/nl_form
Replies to my last Contests & Activities newsletter "Desperately Seeking" that asked: Where do people keep finding contests on the site?
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