For example, the sponsors of the Charmin Honor Roll contest aren't looking for your child doing something explicit in the bathroom. For essay contests, write from your heart. Sponsors aren't trying to find a great literary novel or poetic masterpiece. They are hoping that the prize goes to someone who sincerely wants it. Tell them why winning would be important to you.
Some contests require an official entry form.
Many popular magazines have entry forms in them. Also, you can call your local retailers for official entry forms. Be proactive about it, too. I called our local liquor store to see if they had any forms for the Korbel Millennium Toast contest. I asked if they could get some before the end of the month, and they said that wouldn't be a problem.