Frequently Asked Questions
Are you interested in writing a story for Project Paranormal? Are you concerned about something? Here are some Frequently Asked Questions - perhaps you will find your answer here. And if not - feel free to ask, with no obligation to join us at all.
Q: I'm not sure that I'm good enough. How do I know?
A: Talk to us. Give us a link to something you've written, or send a sample of your writing. It doesn’t have to be a PP length story, or about a similar subject – we just need to see something you think represents what you can do.
Q: I'm not sure about my grammar. Do you have a beta?
A: Yes. We check all stories for things like grammar and continuity.
Q: I usually write in abbreviated netlingo. If I write my story in cyberspeak to send to you, that will be okay, won't it?
A: I'm sorry, it really won't. We don't have time to write it up properly for use on the site; if you want to write for us, you must send the story to us in proper English.
Q: Supposing my story isn't good enough?
A: In the unlikely event that the story doesn't turn out as well as you'd hoped, we won't use it. But we have writers here who will happily help and advise you. There is no need to worry.
Q: Do you work to a deadline?
A: Usually, yes.
Q: What if I can't make the deadline?
A: Not usually a problem; as long as we know you're having problems, we have ways round that.
Q: What if I don’t feel able to commit to a deadline to start with?
A: Don’t worry. Send us your story when it’s finished, and we’ll slot it in when we can. But, most people find it helpful to have a date to aim towards, even if it’s several months away, so we may well give you a target date for later in the season.
Q: I'm not from England. Can I join?
A: Absolutely. A number of our writers are from overseas. If you need help with our idioms or aspects of English life, we will help you.
Q: I'd like to write but I don't have any ideas for a story. Can you help?
A: Yes. We can help you find a suitable idea.
Q: I have a great idea for a story, but I don't write. Would you like it?
A: Thank you, but no. We have plenty of ideas of our own.
Q: I'm not sure that I can get your characters and details right. Will you help?
A: Of course. All of our stories are checked for inconsistencies and problems before going on site. And you could always make up your own original characters to add to our collection.
Q: I would like to use an existing original character. Is that allowed?
A: Yes, it’s allowed and encouraged. If it’s more than a passing reference, just make sure that what you do is in character. If you are worried about getting it wrong, or doing something with the character that would take them in the wrong direction for the series, you could always talk your idea through with me or with the author whose character that is.
Q: Some of the PP stories are very long, and I usually write much shorter stories. Is there a minimum length?
A: Yes, there is a minimum length, but it’s only 5,000 words, which we think is just enough to tell a proper story. If you normally write shorter than that, don't be put off. There are things we can do to get round that.
Q: What if I want to write something, and then find I can’t meet your criteria?
A: If we like what you’ve done, but it doesn’t fit our story structure, we have an area especially for pieces like that – it’s called The Lost Files.
Q: What audience should the stories be aimed at? Is there an age limit?
A: The stories are aimed at those who would be watching the show, if it were still running. Therefore, stories should be suitable for people aged 15 or over.
Q: What if I want to write a rip-roaring sexy story?
A: Ahem… It wouldn’t pass our age limit test, I’m afraid. Although, I’m sure we’d love to read it. Perhaps you could tone it down to 15 for the series, and we could consider putting the unadulterated story into The Lost Files?
Q: I'm writing a Project story for you. What do I do when it's finished?
A: Whoa - slow down! If you want to write for us, talk to us before you start writing. We are unlikely to be able to accept submissions that haven’t been discussed with us first, because we do plan each season, and we ensure that each story is appropriate within that structure. Find out whether your idea fits, then you can get on with the writing.
Q: Will I have to write a lengthy outline of the story before I send it to you? I'm not sure I can write like that.
A: You don't need to do that at all. Talk to us, and we'll tell you what we need.
Q: Is there somebody I can talk to if I get into difficulty?
A: Oh, yes. You can ask me anything that you like. If you think you will need a lot of help, we can assign one of our writers to help guide you through the system. They won't write the story for you, but will be happy to advise. We also use a hidden board on a forum for discussions and so forth.
Q: I'm not going to know what's going on when I start, so will I feel a bit left out?
A: Goodness, no. We will welcome you to the group and treat you as an equal. Your thoughts and opinions are just as important as everyone else's.
Q: If I agree to write, how many stories will I have to do?
A: As many as you want to do. One will suffice.
Q: If I just want to do a single story, do I then stop being a member of the team?
A: Only if you want to stop. We would love you to stay around and contribute to our discussions and ideas, and hopefully get an idea for another story.
Q: I'm not comfortable writing for certain characters or situations. Will I have to?
A: We already have people in that position, and it’s not a problem. Nobody will ask you to do anything that you don't want to do.
Q: I've been asked to write for you in the past. I have more time now and would like to have a go. Do you still want me?
A: YES! I'll put the kettle on, shall I?
If your question hasn't been answered, or you would like to put your name forward, the next step is to talk to me, Dark Star. I hope to hear from you soon!
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