Poets and Writers Magazine: Top Ten Topics for Writers

Since our founding in 1970, Poets & Writers has served as an information clearinghouse of all matters related to writing. While the range of inquiries has been broad, common themes have emerged over time. Our Top Ten Topics for Writers addresses the most popular and pressing issues.

• Literary Magazines

  • Introduction
  • The World of Literary Magazines—Determining Which Are Right for Your Work
  • Submission Guidelines
  • Simultaneous Submissions
  • Cover Letters
  • Other Resources
• Publishing a Book

  • Introduction
  • Small Presses vs. Large Publishers
  • Chapbooks
  • Submission Guidelines
  • What to Expect from Your Publisher
  • What to Expect from a Standard Book Contract
  • Marketing and Distribution
  • Self-Publishing and Print-on-Demand Companies
  • What is a Vanity or Subsidy Press?
  • Other Resources
• Literary Agents

  • Introduction
  • What a Literary Agent Can Do for You
  • Finding the Right Literary Agent
  • The Query Letter
  • What You Should Know Before Signing a Contract
  • Literary Agents and Poets
  • Fee-Charging Agents
  • Other Resources
• Writing Contests

  • Introduction
  • Other Resources
• Vanity Presses

  • Introduction
  • Recognizing Scams
  • Other Resources
• Copyright

  • Introduction
  • Glossary of Rights
  • Other Resources
• Book Publicity

  • Introduction
  • Developing a Mailing List
  • Creating a Web Site
  • How to Set Up a Reading Tour
  • Hiring an Independent Publicist
  • Other Resources
• Writers Conferences, Colonies, and Workshops

  • Introduction
  • The Benefits of Attending a Writers Conference or Colony
  • Writing Groups/Workshops
  • Online Writing Workshops
  • Other Resources
• MFA Programs

  • Introduction
  • What an MFA Degree Can Offer
  • How to Choose an MFA Program
  • Low-Residency MFA Programs
  • Other Resources
• Literary Organizations

  • Introduction
  • Other Resources