[header] How to enter writing contests [title] Check the contest guidelines. [step] Before you submit to any contest, you'll need to know what the contest judges are looking for. Failing to adhere to the rules and guidelines of a contest could have negative consequences, so double check the submission guidelines before you send in your work. 
[substeps] If there is a word or page count, adhere to it. Trying to exceed the word/page count will irritate the judges, get your submission disqualified, or both.