Talmyn Writer Challenges
A recurring, themed writing prompt — free to enter, open to anyone, published under your name if it's selected.
What this offers
A real, permanent byline
Selected pieces are published as full articles on Talmyn, not a mention in a roundup.
A fresh prompt each cycle
Each challenge is a specific, focused writing prompt — a genuine constraint to write against, not an open "submit anything" call.
No cost, ever
Free to enter, free to be published if selected. We don't charge for consideration.
A real editor, not a contest bot
Every entry is actually read. If yours is selected, an editor works with you before it goes live.
Who this is for
Anyone who can write to a specific prompt well — published writers and first-timers alike. Past prompts have asked entrants to explain a complex topic clearly in under 900 words, or make the strongest possible case for an unpopular opinion.
How it works
- Check the current prompt below. Each challenge is specific — read it before you start writing.
- Submit your entry. Written to the prompt, in your own words, below the word limit given.
- An editor reads every entry. Not skimmed for keywords — actually read.
- If selected, it's published under your name, and you're notified by email the moment it's live.
Rules & eligibility
- This is free to enter, and always will be — we never charge a submission fee.
- No age, location, industry, or follower-count requirement. Selection is about the writing itself.
- Entries must respond to the current specific prompt — general submissions outside the active prompt are better suited to Talmyn Debate or Talmyn 100 Voices.
- One entry per person per challenge cycle. You're welcome to enter the next cycle's prompt separately.
- Submitting doesn't guarantee publication — we get more entries than we can feature, and we'd rather say that upfront than overpromise.
How do I actually apply?
I read the current prompt carefully before I start, because entries that drift from the actual constraint tend not to get selected even when the writing itself is strong. I write to the specific word limit and the specific ask, submit it below, and if it's selected, an editor reaches out before it goes live.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it cost anything to enter?
No. It's free to enter Talmyn Writer Challenges, and free to be published if selected.
How is this different from Talmyn Debate or 100 Voices?
Talmyn Debate is for arguing a position on a contested question. 100 Voices is for a personal, true story. Writer Challenges is a specific, themed writing prompt that changes each cycle — a genuine constraint to write against.
How often does the prompt change?
Prompts rotate periodically. Check this page for the current one before submitting.
Do I need to be a professional writer?
No. Strong writing to the prompt is what matters, not your publishing history.
What happens if my entry isn't selected?
Nothing gets published without being selected first. You're welcome to enter the next challenge cycle.
Selection is editorial and unpaid on both sides — no one is charged to submit, and no one is paid for work we publish. Talmyn's editorial standards apply the same way here as everywhere else on the site.
Submit
Meet the cohort
The first entries are being reviewed now — check back soon, or be one of the first to submit yours below.