We are looking for comic features that will simultaneously appeal to the newspaper editors who buy comics and the newspaper readers whose interest the comics must sustain for years to follow. We don't have a formula for telling us which comics will do that, but we do look for some elements that we believe people respond to. First, we look for a uniqueness that reflects the cartoonist's own individual slant on the world and humor. If we see that unique slant, we look to if the cartoonist is turning his or her attention to events that other people can relate to. Second, we very carefully study a cartoonist's writing ability.
Good writing helps weak art, better than good art helps weak writing.
Good art is also important. It is what first attracts readers to a comic strip. We look to see that your art is drawn clearly and with visual impact. We want our comics to be noticed on a page. Finally, we look for your ability to sustain a high level of quality material.