1000 word challenge

Survey results

Thanks for your feedback!

A few weeks ago, we asked for your comments about 1000 word challenge. Thank you to everyone who took the time to tell us what you think.

Competition themes

One of our favourite parts of running the competition is coming up with each theme. We were really pleased to hear many of you like the variety and challenge of a themed competition, and that you enjoy seeing how others have interpreted the prompt.

Our opening line themes, such as ‘I took a deep breath...’ have proved really popular. So, we’ll certainly include more opening lines in future. Some people suggested a closing line would be a fun alternative.

The ‘set at a party’ competition was a clear favourite so we’ll also consider other setting-based themes.

We also had requests for specific genres – especially crime. There are obviously some budding Agatha Christies among you!

Finally, a few of you suggested a theme centred on a particular object – a photograph or a hat, for example. We love this idea.

You’ve given us lots to think about for our next competition in the autumn!

Feedback

We were thrilled to see that our feedback is really valued by many of you. We know most competitions can leave you feeling as though you’ve sent your writing out into a void, so we’re proud to be different!

Of those respondents who asked for feedback, a brilliant 97% found the judges’ comments useful. One person added, ‘They weren’t just useful, they were brilliant (even if I didn’t always agree with them!)’

Because we know you value our feedback on your competition entries, we have been considering offering other writing services. 89% of you said you’d be interested in proofreading, editing or feedback on your other writing. We’ll be launching editorial services soon – so watch this space!

Improving 1000 word challenge

Of course, it’s lovely to hear your positive comments but we also wanted to find out how we can improve the competition.

You told us you’d like more hints and tips about what makes a good story. From now on, we’ll share more writing advice on Facebook and Twitter. So, don’t forget to follow us on social media for the latest hints and tips!

Overwhelmingly, you told us you’d like MORE from 1000 word challenge. More competitions, more frequently and perhaps with a range of lengths and styles. Expanding the competition is a challenge for our small team but we’re working on it and hope to share more news with you soon!

Thanks for your feedback, your support and your enthusiasm. We’re looking forward to bringing you even more from 1000 word challenge in September.