Pennwriters Writing Contest
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Short Story 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.
 
Mechanics
  • Is the balance between showing and telling effective for this story?
  • Does every word matter?
  • Does the structure of the story fit the genre and theme?
 
Character
  • Is the protagonist interesting?
  • Do the plot and the character arc feel naturally entwined?
 
Setting
  • Is the setting integral to the plot?
  • Does the setting add to the challenges faced by the MC?
  • Do the descriptions come from a unique perspective?
 
Structure
  • Does the story open with a hook that makes you want to keep reading?
  • Does the middle propel the reader toward the ending?
  • Is the ending a meaningful reflection of the beginning?
 
Style and Theme
  • Does the story make the reader think or feel something about the human condition?
Open-ended Questions
  • Please make general comments about the entry that may help the author improve their writing and/or understand the market.
 
Total points: 36


SUBMIT
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Short Story Entry Form
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