I LOVE entering those 100 word story contests (Janet Reid is the queen at coming up with those). I’ve found entering ‘shorts’ helps me with other projects. My writing is more concise, focused, snappy – at least, I think I’m seeing a difference.
Improving my craft aside, entering writing contests is fun! Here are a few I’ve recently come across.
Contest #1 The Badger Games is hosting a fun contest. You have to write a query/blurb/something else on the cover of a book she recently found. Creative. My entry is somewhat long – hmmm, what was that about learning to be more concise??
Contest #2. My good friend, Frederique, sent me the link for NPR’s Three Minute Story Contest. Now, why didn’t I know about the NPR contests before? Because I’m an uncultivated heathen, that’s why. So, thank you to my more cultured friend for thinking of me! Still working on that entry, though I think I’ve got a fun premise.
Contest #3 Writer’s Digest Short Story Competition This one I knew about. I may not always listen to NPR (though I love Prairie Home Companion), but I do read WD every month. Front to back, several times.
If you know of any short writing contests, do tell!
Cat
Just Write Cat 
Thanks for the contest info Cat!
I’ve seen your name up in lights several times over at Janet Reid’s blog. You’re weaving together some pretty good stories. Keep ’em coming!
Ah, thanks! I greatly appreciate the kind words, Bryan. 🙂 Oh, I entered the NPR 3-minute story. I think working on all those 100 word contests helped…I might be addicted to those contests!
Thanks for the contest info! These look great!