On The Premises (OTP) Contest Guidelines
As per their website: Write a story between 25 and 50 words long that uses circles, a circle, or something related to circles as an important part of the story. This is mini-contest #64 and launched in February 2026.
These mini-contests have no entry fee and award small prizes. First place awards $45, second $35, and third $25, all in US dollars. Honorable mentions get published, but no monetary award.
I love challenges like this! It was my first time submitting to a challenge by OTP.
My Thoughts
I enjoy writing about children and young adults, and I envisioned a scene where a young guy has worked up the nerve to talk to a girl he likes. Of course, he is quite nervous!
My Submission
46 words without title, 48 words with title
Aw Shucks
Dust swirled as my scuffed sneaker traced circles in the dirt.
I peeked through my long bangs at Mary, the prettiest girl in school.
“Would you like to go to the movies?”
“Maybe,” she smiled.
Not a no. I let the dust settle and stood taller.
My Goal
I hope you smiled, and it brought back a memory or two about how it felt to begin interacting with the opposite sex. It could be a scary time!
Results
To see the results of the contest, click here. Although I didn’t win, I enjoyed the opportunity to participate and read the winning entries. I look forward to entering again. One day, I may be one of the winners!
A very nice addition to the winning names is a note about whether or not the writer is a new winner or has won before. They even say how many times a repeat winner has won.
This is a classy move!
Next Mini-Contest: A New Twist
Prompt: The Long and Short of Family Arguments
For this mini-contest, tell, show, or evoke a complete story about some family dispute or disagreement…TWICE. Provide a longer version of the story (75 -100) words and then rewrite that same story into a shorter mini-contest version (25 – 50 words).
They are increasing the prize pool, since you have to work harder for this one.
The contest submission page will have TWO clearly marked text boxes for your stories.
For complete rules, click here.
Be Brave and Take a Chance
If you enjoy writing prompts and contests, I encourage you to check this one out and join the fun!
