Writing Sample FAQs

What do you look for in a writing sample?

Besides impeccable grammar and orthography, we look for the ability to communicate ideas effectively and creatively.

Do you accept creative writing samples (such as short stories, screenplays, or humor pieces)?

Yes. However, we strongly encourage you to complement strictly creative writing samples with more analytical pieces. If you do send multiple samples, keep in mind that we will review only about 500 words of text.

How long may the sample be?

Please submit a sample of fewer than 500 words. Our end users will judge the quality of your writing in the first three sentences. Our reviewers are charitable, but they are looking for the ability to capture an audience's attention immediately and sustain that attention for at least 5-15 minutes.

May I submit an excerpt from a larger work?

Yes, we welcome excerpts. However, keep in mind that we are looking for people who can communicate ideas to a target audience. Our reviewers are also a target audience. They will want to know what it is they are reviewing. To truly showcase your abilities, provide context for your excerpt.

I've put together many slide presentations and workbooks for classroom training. May I submit these in lieu of a writing sample?

We are looking for writers and instructional designers with the ability to create engaging prose that effectively communicates ideas. Slide presentations and workbooks are powerful tools to support a live instructor, but they cannot by themselves sustain an engaging, deep, and persuasive argument.

I'm looking for a high-level position in instructional design. Why do I need to submit a writing sample?

The sample tells us much, much more than whether you know how to write. It reveals your style of thinking, your personality, and your interests. We are looking to hire interesting, creative, and articulate people. The best way we've found to identify stars like that is through the writing sample.

I do not have a current writing sample. Is there any other way I can prove my abilities?

The writing sample is an indispensable part of the application. If you are looking for any kind of writing job, we strongly recommend you invest time in putting together a portfolio.

Does Enspire verify that I have submitted original work?

Yes. We have caught plagiarists red-handed. Do not submit the work of others. We have, on occasion, reported plagiarism to current supervisors and academic authorities.