Guide to Free Writer's Guidelines Databases

Every writer knows the importance of following writer's guidelines when submitting queries and articles for publication. Sometimes, however, it can be difficult to find specific guidelines, which is where guidelines databases come in handy. These Internet resources list thousands of publications and their particular writer's guidelines; the only challenge is making sure that the information listed is up-to-date.

Free Writer's Guidelines Databases: WritingForDollars.com

Don Case lists around 752 publications for which he has compiled writer's guidelines on his website. Although he does have a search feature, I've found that it doesn't always turn up the most relevant results, so I would recommend searching 'All Markets' and wading through the publications that simply don't interest you to get to the jewels in the rough. The way he lists the guidelines is what attracted me to this website in the first place; he writes out the most pertinent information (low-, medium- or high-paying market, types of works accepted, etc.) then gives a link to the publication's website where you can find the full submission guidelines.

Free Writer's Guidelines Databases: AbsoluteWrite.com

Although this website is somewhat out-of-date (updated in 2004), it does list links to some of the most high-paying markets for freelance writers. Next to the link to the publication's website, AbsoluteWrite.com lists the types of submissions accepted as well as the payment per word or per story, if available. I also pay $15 per year for their bimonthly newsletter that lists hundreds of markets that cannot be found on their website. I've found it to be a great investment because my first accepted submission from one of their markets yielded a payout of more than $500.

Free Writer's Guidelines Databases: WritersWrite.com