I sometimes wonder about this myself. My pub is short-form and can be as as short as 6 words, but I'm strict on formatting. I'm also strict about writers reading and following the specific guidelines and expectations for each monthly challenge I post. Sometimes I wonder if I offend writers when I ask them to review the guidelines or let them know it doesn't quite meet the expectations for the particular challenge.

However, I'm pretty forgiving and easy-going and sometimes writers make mistakes (and as an editor and a writer, I've made my own errors too!)

There is always room in our "freestyle" section if their stories don't meet the "monthly challenge." It can be frustrating on my end when I see submissions where it seems the writer is perhaps skimming the rules, submissions or formatting guidelines, and missing out important details editors are looking for in the submissions.

Thanks so much for writing this. It really gives writers insight into what editors go through, especially when we do it voluntarily and without compensation for reading, reviewing, editing, replying back and forth via private notes and publishing their stories.

I love encouraging writers to shine with their stories and photos, but it makes it much easier for me as an editor when they take time to read and follow the rules, etc.

Sadly, editors end up spending more time dealing with writers who misread the rules, than with the writers who take the time to read (and reveiw the rules) and get it correct.

Thanks, Joann. Sorry for the long comment. Obviously, your article resonated with me! Mary:)