Golden PADD 2018!

Written Bydulac
Published On
20 May 2018

Information On The Golden PADD Competition

The Golden PADD, also known as the Short Story Competition, is now in its second year, in this competition we challenge our creative players to write a short story of 7500 words or less during the month of June.  Unlike the Golden PADD of 2017, this year we are removing the genre limitation and allowing our writers to submit anything they wish.

How Do You Get Started?

Once you have figured out what story you are to write, submit your interest by sending an email with the following details to; [email protected]

  • Your Name:
  • Your Age:
  • Your main character in OF:
  • Story Title: (this can be changed later)
  • Age Rating:

Once you’ve done this, you will officially be entered into the competition!

What Will You Be Judged On?

It is only fair that you are told the criteria you are going to be put against, so here it is;

Premise/Concept 10%
Does writer engage the reader’s attention immediately? Is tone, setting and character established promptly? Is the premise/Concept logical, or too far-fetched?

Presentation 20%
Is writing fresh and free of clichés? Does it reveal writer’s vision and attitude clearly? Are viewpoint changes and pacing handled smoothly?

Characters & Dialogue 15%
Are characters believable, well-rounded? Actions and interactions consistent and well motivated?

Theme 10%
Does the theme represent what has been set down? Does it correspond to current knowledge from fans? Is it believable?

Plot 30%
Does progression seem inevitable without being too predictable? Is story interesting and compelling to read?

Style/Tone 15%
Are grammar and punctuation correct? Spelling accurate? Is manuscript professionally prepared? Are details consistent and correct?

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will the story that is submitted need to be new?
A: Yes. The story must be written during the month of June (1 to 30th)

Q: What format must the submission be in?
A: Formats must be in either Rich Text or Word Document format only, other formats will be disqualified.

Q: It Is The Middle Of June And You Are Finished?
A: That’s great, but do you want to submit it yet? We will only accept the first submission and no revisions so, ensure you have it perfect!

Q: Can I submit my entry after the deadline?
A: No. Entries after 30 June will be disqualified.

Q: Are ‘fan fiction’ stories allowed?
A: Absolutely!

Q: Can I write with someone else, as a joint effort?
A: Yes, of course. Just state you are working as a team in your submission, and provide the contact details for your partner(s)! Working as a team will also mean you share the prize!

Q: Will crossover fiction be allowed, such as Star Trek/Star Wars?
A: No. The story must remain within your chosen genre.  You cannot cross genres or brands, so no Star Trek vs Star Wars stories.

Q: You said any genre is allowed?
A: Correct, last year we only took Star Trek themed stories.  This year, we are opening it up to any story you wish to tell, so long as it is your work and is completed within June.  You can write in any grenre, in any brand, you wish.

Q: Can the story be above, or below, the word count limit?
A: This is up to the judges. If your story is 10% either way, the judges will not mark down, however, they may if it is significantly out and of detriment to the story. So be careful!

Q: I’m dyslexic, will this count against me?
A: There are many online tools to support people with additional needs, such as Google Drive, Grammarly (free or premium) and more. The criteria set above is for everyone and no special provisions can, or will, be made.

Q: Are canon characters allowed?
A: No, all characters must be new.

Q: Who are the judges?
A: Only Fluffy knows the answer.

Q: Can I bribe a judge?
A: Ask yourself, do you feel lucky?

If there are any questions, please email; [email protected]