Simultaneous submissions

Definition

Simultaneous submissions refer to the practice of sending the same piece of writing, such as a short story or poem, to multiple literary magazines or journals at the same time. This approach allows writers to maximize their chances of getting published, but it can also lead to ethical considerations if a piece is accepted by more than one publication simultaneously.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Writers should always check submission guidelines of magazines, as some do not allow simultaneous submissions while others are fine with it.
2. If a writer accepts an offer from one publication, they must promptly withdraw their piece from other submissions to avoid conflicts.
3. Simultaneous submissions can speed up the process of finding a publication since it allows writers to cast a wider net in their search for acceptance.
4. It is important to communicate transparently with all publications involved if your work gets accepted elsewhere after submitting simultaneously.
5. Many established authors utilize simultaneous submissions as part of their submission strategy to increase visibility and opportunity.

Review Questions

• How does the practice of simultaneous submissions benefit writers in the publishing process?
  • Simultaneous submissions allow writers to send their work to multiple literary magazines at once, significantly increasing their chances of getting published. This approach saves time since waiting for responses from individual publications can be lengthy and discouraging. By submitting simultaneously, writers can maximize exposure for their work and potentially receive quicker acceptances.
• What ethical considerations should writers keep in mind when submitting their work simultaneously to multiple publications?
  • When engaging in simultaneous submissions, writers need to be aware of the ethical implications that arise if a piece is accepted by more than one publication. They must ensure they promptly withdraw their work from other journals once they accept an offer. Failure to do so could lead to conflicts and damage relationships with editors and publishers, impacting future submission opportunities.
• Evaluate the impact of simultaneous submissions on the landscape of literary publishing today, considering both advantages and potential challenges.
  • Simultaneous submissions have reshaped the landscape of literary publishing by giving writers more control over their work and speeding up the publishing process. The advantage is clear: more opportunities for acceptance and visibility. However, challenges exist, such as navigating ethical concerns and managing communication with multiple publications. Writers must be diligent about following guidelines and maintaining professionalism, as mishandling simultaneous submissions can lead to reputational risks within the literary community.

Related terms

exclusive submissions: Exclusive submissions are when a writer sends their work to only one publication at a time, waiting for a response before submitting elsewhere.

literary magazine:

A literary magazine is a periodical that publishes creative writing, including poetry, fiction, and essays, often focusing on new and emerging writers.

response time: Response time refers to the duration it takes for a literary magazine or journal to review submissions and provide feedback or acceptance notifications to authors.