The Writer's Workout

Three numbered challenges, a redraft challenge, and free feedback throughout. Try any (or all!) of the numbered challenges and use the feedback to improve. Numbered challenge winners are featured on the blog. The piece most embracing the revision process wins the Redraft Challenge and is published. 

Write Track

January 1.1: Flawed Protagonist
Core Concept: character development


For this challenge, create a protagonist whose flaw makes or breaks a crucial moment.


up to 4,000 words
Deadline: January 31
Find submission info and links below the rules on the Write Track page.
WE ARE LIMITED TO 15 ENTRIES.


Check out our free Back to Basics course on Flawed Characters for support. You can also drop by our Discord #write-track channel to chat with other entrants and clarify questions with the judges. Just remember to keep identifiable details of your entry private!

Be sure your entry includes the required Title Information:
Name or Pseudonym, email
Entry Title
Write Track Challenge [#]
Word Count

1.1 Flawed Protagonist

February 1.2: Set the Scene
Core Concept: description


For this challenge, your character returns to a special place from their past.


up to 4,000 words
Deadline: February 28
Find submission info and links below the rules on the Write Track page.
WE ARE LIMITED TO 15 ENTRIES.


Check out our free Back to Basics courses on Sense & Description and Setting for support. You can also drop by our Discord #write-track channel to chat with other entrants and clarify questions with the judges. Just remember to keep identifiable details of your entry private!

Be sure your entry includes the required Title Information:
Name or Pseudonym, email
Entry Title
Write Track Challenge [#]
Word Count

1.2 Set the Scene

March 1.3 Control the Pace
Core Concept: pacing

For this challenge, create a plot which includes an unexpected change.


up to 4,000 words
Deadline: March 31
Find submission info and links below the rules on the Write Track page.
WE ARE LIMITED TO 15 ENTRIES.


Check out our blog posts on pacing for support. You can also drop by our Discord #write-track channel to chat with other entrants and clarify questions with the judges. Just remember to keep identifiable details of your entry private!

Be sure your entry includes the required Title Information:
Name or Pseudonym, email
Entry Title
Write Track Challenge [#]
Word Count

1.3 Control the Pace

Core Concepts: character development, description, pacing
​
For this challenge, redraft/revise one prior Write Track submission from this rotation: January, February or March, 2025. Only those who submitted and received actionable Judges’ Feedback are eligible for this challenge.

This challenge is accessible by private link only; you will find the link to submit in your feedback document. ​

Write Track

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