Essay papers written for writing competition are products of skilled writing techniques and in depth research. Joining essay writing contests only demand simple criteria – the composition must be of great quality, high value and prompt. Otherwise the paper may not be treated as a qualified entry for any competition.

In producing essay papers for any contest there are certain guidelines that essay writers have to follow: style, length, topic, and other specifications. However, there are simple, general yet logical and relevant pointers in aspiring to write award-winning essays. Good or better said, brilliantly written essays and other academic writings have some common characteristics. Whether or not one aims to write an essay for a competition, here are some tips to consider:

• Determining the length of the essay is essential. Essay papers vary greatly in length. Most essay writing contest have certain requirements when it comes to length. Whatever the preferred length is, writers must always bear in mind that it must be long enough to cover the subject cohesively but short enough to maintain interest. Essay length is crucial in writing. Skilled writers know when to stop writing and when to add more. Writing for competitions must not really be an issue of more words vs lesser words. What matters is how words are used to clearly convey the purpose of the essay.

• Essay papers in general must not be dull. It is an imperative that essays are mentally stimulating. The ability to sustain reader’s interest in key to producing great essays. Topic selection plays a major role in grabbing readers' attention. Good choice and placement of words are the secret to eye-hooking articles. Although some professional essay writers are skilled and equipped enough with the appropriate writing techniques to employ. Writing essay papers is also a growing experience.

• Abstract terminology or technical jargon must be avoided, if not be terminated in writing essay papers. Why? Because essays are supposed to be fun and easy to read. Using technical terms will hinder the purpose of the essay to deliver a clear message across its readers. The essay contest entry must be able to convey the subject matter in the simplest and coolest manner possible. This means that the essay must be written in an objective style in using simple language.

• Essay readers and judges are often interested in acquiring a new knowledge. Essay papers that offer some interesting facts or trivial in nature often have higher readership. It is because one of man's basic instincts is the continuous search for something new. This type of essay commonly leave a strong impression on the readers. Providing essay entries that get the "wow" and "really" impressions are the usual winners.

• Essay papers for any writing competition must be free from any grammatical error. Having such errors is distracting and ruins the credibility of the essay. Contest papers must be prepared strictly adhering to the techniques of basic composition: the proper use of quotations, footnotes, punctuations, abbreviations, etc. The layout and structure of the essay must also be well thought out conforming to the objective of the article. The entire essay must have a smooth flow through transitions. Preparing an outline is the key to attaining this.

• Essay papers produced for contests must at all times show originality and must present high relevance or value. Essays' quality is weigh through several criteria - writing style, technical accuracy, structure and of coarse originality and relevance. It is a no-brainer: original and high value works deserve to win.

• It is also an imperative that essay papers for writing competition must be presented properly. It means that the appearance is attractive, neat and clean, typed or printed.

Writing essay papers is an art honed by practice and experience. Showcasing writing skills through competitions is a healthy way to gain relevant writing experience.