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Rated: E · Book · Contest · #483915

Questions Answered

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#250416 added January 31, 2026 at 4:49pm
Restrictions: None
Rating a Contest Entry
How do you Rate, Review or Comment on a Contest Entry:


The subject has been brought up many times, so why not once more? I spent the last two weeks checking out various contests on the site. Increasingly, I see a growing trend. Hosts are telling their entrants up front that they will not be able to rate and review all the entries.

As I try to see the logic in what the contest hosts are saying, I made a point of bringing it to the attention of a few on my travels this past week. I was surprised to find that most feel they do not have time to review the items, and they just wanted to be sure that the entrants were well aware of that.

I don’t know about the entrants, but this puts up a red flag for me. Why would I want to submit an item for a contest if it is not going to be rated and possibly include a comment?

I commend these contest hosts for being honest, but who asked for a review? Contest hosts are assuming that they are required to review an item when it is submitted for a contest. I believe that is what review forums are for, and there are plenty on the site for just that purpose.

*Bullet* So let’s clarify, as a contest host, you should read all entries. There is no exception to this unwritten rule.

*Bullet* When you read the entry, you should rate the entry good, average, or bad. That is why the rating system is in place.

*Bullet* If you read the entry and it knocked your socks off, then say just that. It is called a comment, and can be done easily at the same time you rate the item.

*Bullet* If you have the time to do a line-by-line edit, and provide the author with the corrections, and perhaps a comment or two as to why the corrections are needed, this is called a review. It can be done at the same time as rating it, or it can be sent by email to the author, but in no way is it a requirement for judging the contest.

*Asteriskb* Contest hosts take the pressure off yourself, and don’t worry about reviewing.

*Asterisko* Contest entrants, be realistic. If you want your item reviewed, post it in a review forum, not a contest forum.

Remember, having your item reviewed is not the same as having your item rated; they are two different things. If an item is read, it deserves to be rated.
*Thought*  Comment

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