Optimal word counts - Shakespeare's Monkeys

Paradiso, Tracey Associate, 1902 posts	on May 7 2007 Hmmm... I think it's a good idea to have a specific pub or pubs in mind and to get a hold of their writer's guidelines. Places have all kinds of word counts, topic preferences, query letter preferences, deadlines (e.g., submisssions accepted only May 1 to Sept 15), etc. Of course you can start an article without all that, and just let your passion and know-how drive the first draft or two. But if you REALLY intend for the piece to be published, you've got to know your publications. I've read article after article about how editors approached by writers who don't know their market get really pissed.
Stephan Ansteyfrom Lowell, MA Associate, 6232 posts	on May 7 2007 So basically, outline, but learn the market first. ----- stephan
Paradiso, Tracey Associate, 1902 posts	on May 7 2007 That's my opinion based on the dozens of articles I've read over the years and teachers with whom I've studied. I think it makes sense, especially when you consider the volume of submissions publications receive thanks to technology. Unless you know someone who knows someone and personally refers you to an editor, chances are the editor doesn't have a second to spare on submissions that don't meet their criteria out of the gate.
Paradiso, Tracey Associate, 1902 posts	on May 7 2007 P.S. I think the title you want on this is Optimal "Word" Counts. Work Counts might scare readers away!
Leanne Hansonfrom Just west of the lounge room Associate, 3708 posts	on May 7 2007 Knowing your market is probably the key, but if you're just writing something to sharpen up later when you have a specific target then you're wasting your time if you put down any more than about 300-400 words. I've found this is a fairly natural length to get your argument sorted and it's easy enough to expand out if you need to. Plus you don't feel as bad about chopping out a hundred words as you would 300.
Jerseydanielgibson 51 posts	on Nov. 30 2007 I'd go for 300-400. It's easier to get to the point, not having to splice and cram your work into something petite. you should be able to get your point across, though sometimes it's rather limiting... ----- Wot, no tea? I'm standing in the corner of Winslow, Arizona, and whoops! I'm in the wrong song! -Tissi Germain