Call Article Submissions? A Writer’s Guide

Yes, many publications and websites do accept unsolicited article submissions, but the process, requirements, and expectations vary widely. This guide explains how to find legitimate calls for submissions, what editors typically look for, and how to avoid common pitfalls.

What Does “Call for Submissions” Mean?

A call for submissions (also called a “call for papers,” “CFP,” or “open call”) is a public invitation from a publication, journal, anthology, or website for writers to submit original work for consideration. These calls can be for articles, essays, short stories, poems, or research papers. The call usually specifies the topic, length, format, deadline, and how to submit.

Types of Calls and Where to Find Them

There are several categories of calls, each with its own venues and norms:

• Literary magazines and journals: Often publish fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction. Check sites like Duotrope, Submittable, or the publication’s own website.
• Academic journals: Use formal CFPs, often posted on university department pages, scholarly societies, or databases like the MLA International Bibliography.
• Online magazines and blogs: Many digital publications have a “Write for Us” or “Contributor Guidelines” page. These may be open year-round or in themed batches.
• Anthologies and collections: Publishers of themed story collections or essay compilations often put out specific calls with a deadline.
• Newspapers and trade magazines: Some accept freelance pitches or completed articles, especially for niche sections.

To find current calls, search for phrases like “call for submissions” plus your genre or topic, check literary market directories, or follow publishers on social media. Many calls are also aggregated on sites like Chill Subs or Poets & Writers’ classifieds.

How to Submit: Steps and Best Practices

Once you find a call that fits, follow these steps carefully:

1. Read the guidelines thoroughly. Note the exact subject, word count, formatting, and submission method (email, online form, or postal).
2. Prepare your manuscript. Use standard formatting: double-spaced, readable font, your name and contact info on the first page, and a title. For email submissions, follow the specified subject line format.
3. Write a brief cover letter (if requested) stating your name, the title of your piece, and a one-sentence summary. Avoid lengthy bios unless asked.
4. Submit before the deadline. Late submissions are usually rejected unread.
5. Track your submission. Use a spreadsheet or a tool like Submittable to note where you’ve sent what and when.
6. Wait patiently. Response times range from a few weeks to several months. Do not query before the stated response time has passed.

What Editors Look For

Editors receive far more submissions than they can publish. They typically look for:

• Fit with the publication: Read a few recent issues to understand the tone, style, and topics they favor.
• Clear, concise writing: Strong leads, logical structure, and no grammatical errors.
• Originality: A fresh angle or unique voice, not a rehash of common topics.
• Adherence to guidelines: If they ask for 1,500 words and you send 3,000, it signals you can’t follow instructions.
• Factual accuracy: For non-fiction, verify all facts, quotes, and statistics. Editors may check sources.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many submissions are rejected for avoidable reasons:

• Ignoring guidelines: Submitting outside the word limit, wrong file type, or missing the deadline.
• Generic cover letters: Sending the same letter to every publication without mentioning the specific call.
• Submitting simultaneously: Some publications allow simultaneous submissions, but many do not. Always check the policy.
• Not proofreading: Typos and errors undermine your credibility.
• Submitting off-topic: Sending a poem to a call for personal essays.

Costs, Payment, and Rights

Policies vary widely:

• Payment: Some publications pay (per word or a flat fee), others offer contributor copies, and many pay nothing. The call should state this.
• Fees: Be wary of calls that charge a submission fee. Legitimate literary magazines sometimes charge a small fee to cover processing, but many do not. If a fee seems excessive or the publication seems low-quality, research it first.
• Rights: Understand what rights you’re granting. A publication may ask for first serial rights, one-time rights, or all rights. You should retain the right to republish your work elsewhere after a specified period.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be a professional writer to submit?

No. Many publications welcome new and emerging writers. What matters is the quality of your work and whether it fits the publication. Some calls are explicitly open to all, while others may require a certain level of experience or credentials, such as for academic journals.

Can I submit the same article to multiple places at once?

It depends on the publication’s policy. Some allow simultaneous submissions, but you must inform them if your piece is accepted elsewhere. Others require exclusive submission, meaning you can only send it to one place at a time. Always check the guidelines.

How long should I wait before following up?

Most calls state a response time (e.g., “responds within 3 months”). If not, a reasonable wait is 2-3 months for magazines and journals. After that, you can send a polite query asking about the status of your submission.

What if my article is rejected?

Rejection is normal. You can often revise and submit elsewhere. Some publications offer feedback, but most do not. Don’t take it personally; keep writing and submitting.

Are there any scams to watch out for?

Yes. Be cautious of calls that promise payment but ask you to pay a fee first, or that claim to be prestigious but have no real readership. Research the publication, check if it has a physical address, and look for reviews from other writers.

How do I find calls that pay well?

Look for publications that list their rates in the guidelines. Sites like Who Pays Writers? track payment rates for magazines. You can also filter calls by “paid” on submission aggregators.

Alternatives to Unsolicited Submissions

If you’re having trouble getting accepted through open calls, consider these alternatives:

• Pitch editors directly: For many magazines, especially trade and online outlets, you can send a query letter describing your article idea before writing it. This is common for freelance journalism.
• Write for your own blog or Medium: Build a portfolio and audience, which can make your pitches more attractive.
• Enter contests: Writing contests often have cash prizes and can boost your credibility, though they may have entry fees.
• Collaborate: Co-author with a more experienced writer or guest post on established blogs to gain exposure.

Remember, persistence is key. Many successful writers receive dozens of rejections before their first acceptance. Keep honing your craft, follow the guidelines, and submit regularly.

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