Many people enter sweepstakes by simply filling out a form—but creative entry contests require a little extra effort. Whether it’s writing a clever tagline, a short essay, or a fun response to a prompt, your words can be the key to winning amazing prizes!
Not sure where to start? Follow these expert tips to write a standout sweepstakes entry that grabs judges’ attention and boosts your chances of winning.
1. Read the Contest Instructions Carefully
Before you start writing, take a few minutes to thoroughly review the contest rules.
✔ What is the word limit?
✔ What is the judging criteria (creativity, humor, emotional appeal)?
✔ Are there any theme requirements?
Skipping even a small detail could disqualify your entry, so make sure you follow all guidelines!
2. Be Original—Avoid Overused Phrases
Judges read hundreds (or thousands) of entries, so generic answers won’t win. Make your entry unique, funny, or emotional—whatever fits the contest theme.
🔹 Example (Bad vs. Good Tagline for a Travel Sweepstakes):
❌ “Travel is my passion!” (Too generic)
✅ “The world is my playground—time to explore!” (More original and fun)
3. Make It Short, Sweet, and Impactful
If you’re writing a tagline or short response, keep it concise and memorable.
✅ Use strong action words
✅ Make it rhythmic and catchy
✅ Stick to 10 words or fewer
🔹 Example (Winning-Style Taglines for a Coffee Sweepstakes):
✔ “Rise. Sip. Conquer.”
✔ “Fuel for the dreamers, one cup at a time.”
4. Use Descriptive Language to Make Your Writing Stand Out
Want your entry to pop? Use vivid, sensory words that paint a picture in the judge’s mind.
🔹 Example (Bad vs. Good Opening for a Contest Essay):
❌ “I like cooking because it’s fun.” (Boring and vague)
✅ “The sizzle of butter, the rich aroma of garlic—cooking is my happy place.” (Engaging and visual)
5. Make It Personal and Authentic
Sweepstakes judges love genuine, heartfelt entries. If you’re asked to share a story or opinion, don’t just say what you think they want to hear—be yourself!
💡 If the contest asks “Why do you deserve to win?”—tell a personal story instead of a generic answer.
6. Edit and Polish Before Submitting
Even a brilliant entry can lose if it’s full of typos. Before you submit:
📝 Read it aloud – Does it sound natural?
📝 Check grammar & spelling – Use Grammarly or spell-check.
📝 Ask a friend to review it – A fresh perspective can catch mistakes.
Final Thoughts: Your Words Can Win Big!
Creative sweepstakes offer amazing prizes and fewer competitors than random drawings. With the right strategy, your words could win vacations, gift cards, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
So don’t hold back—write something awesome, submit with confidence, and get ready to win!