WriteToWin Competition – Judging Rubric

Instructions for Judges: Please evaluate each article based on the following criteria. Score each category from 1 (Poor) to 5 (Excellent), considering the bullet points provided. Add any qualitative comments that support your score. Remember that judging is anonymous; evaluate only the article content.


1. Originality & Insight (Score: 1-5)

  • Ideas fresh and engaging?
  • Unique perspective or angle?
  • Insightful analysis provided?
  • Avoids clichés and predictability?
  • Demonstrates creative thinking?

2. Clarity & Conciseness (Score: 1-5)

  • Language clear and precise?
  • Easy to understand main points?
  • Sentences well-constructed?
  • Free of unnecessary jargon or ambiguity?
  • Concise writing style (avoids wordiness)?

3. Research & Evidence (If Applicable) (Score: 1-5)

  • Sufficient supporting evidence used?
  • Sources credible and relevant?
  • Evidence effectively integrated?
  • Proper citation used ([MLA Style])?
  • Demonstrates understanding of topic?

4. Argument & Logic (If Applicable) (Score: 1-5)

  • Clear central argument or thesis?
  • Logical flow of reasoning?
  • Argument well-supported by evidence?
  • Persuasive and coherent points?
  • Addresses complexity/counterpoints (if relevant)?

5. Structure & Organization (Score: 1-5)

  • Engaging introduction?
  • Logical paragraph development?
  • Smooth transitions between ideas?
  • Effective overall structure (beginning, middle, end)?
  • Satisfying conclusion?

6. Impact & Engagement (Score: 1-5)

  • Holds the reader’s attention?
  • Thought-provoking or emotionally resonant?
  • Memorable content or message?
  • Appropriate tone maintained?
  • Leaves a distinct impression?

7. Grammar & Mechanics (Score: 1-5)

  • Correct grammar and sentence structure?
  • Accurate spelling?
  • Proper punctuation?
  • Overall proofreading quality (few/no typos)?
  • Readability unhindered by errors?

8. Adherence to Rules (Score: 1-5)

Within word count (800-2500)? Was the correct file format used? Correct font/spacing/margins used? No identifying author info within the file?


Overall Score: [Sum of Scores or Weighted Score] / [Total Possible Score]

Judge’s Comments: [Space for qualitative feedback, strengths, weaknesses, overall impression]


Note on Weighting: The organizers may assign specific percentage weights to each criterion before final scores are calculated (e.g., Originality 20%, Clarity 15%, etc.). Ensure you are aware of any weighting scheme. Sources and related content