Question for anyone with knowledge of screenplay contests: do the people who read script submissions read them as they come in or after the final deadline has passed?
Screenwriting : Contests by Ian Thompson
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As they come in.
Most comps will assign a pile of scripts to a reader based on how many they want to commit to within some time frame.
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Perhaps the real question you're asking, Ian Thompson, is, "Is there a strategy to when to submit to a contest, early or last minute." I don't know the answer other than it's cheaper to submit earlier rather than later since entry fees climb over time, and waiting later allows you to submit the latest draft.
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There is no best time. There's unfounded gossip that early and you're out because readers are more cautious. Late and the tired readers are bleary-eyed and less attentive.
As noted, the sole advantages are: cheaper in earlier deadlines; entering a perhaps improved draft. Some comps allow new drafts within a timeline after entering with no penalty. Most comps do not.
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Was a reader at Nashville for one season...can't really tell for the organizers, but we read as were given, probably all after the deadline. We did have our deadlines, through...