Nonfiction & Creative Nonfiction Evaluation
​

Judges Criteria
Use these Guidelines:
4- Excellent-Ready for publication as is
3- Very Good-Could still use a bit of polish
2- In Process-Needs work to meet its potential
1- Starting Point- Concept is there, needs substantial work to meet its potential
Especially if you have given a LOW score to a question, please mark, in the writing sample provided, some examples for why you gave that score.

Opening:

• Does the piece begin with a unique theory, a problem to be solved, an intriguing biographical detail, or some other hook?
• Does the opening section provide the reader with confidence that the author knows this topic well?
• Does the opening (or sample of a book-length piece) provide the reader with a strong sense of the theme, topic, or character?

 
Style/Voice

• Is the writing fresh, clear, and focused?
• Are the writing style and vocabulary appropriate and engaging for the intended audience?
• Does the voice balance relatability with authority/knowledge?

 
Construction/Organization/Development:

• Is the work without errors in logic?
• Does the writer use interesting facts, examples, opinions, and/or explanations to develop the piece?
• Is the necessary background information presented in a concise and well-balanced manner?
• Is the piece organized effectively, with strong transitions?
• Is the pacing appropriate for the unfolding article or story?
• Is there a satisfying tie between the opening of the piece and its resolution? If a book length work, does the sample give a clear sense of narrative direction?

 
Open-ended Question

• Please make general comments about the entry that may help the author improve their writing and/or understand the market.

 
Total points: 48

---

SUBMIT

 Note: You must be logged in to the Pennwriters site in order to submit.
Nonfiction Entry Form