How to Submit
CTS Submission Guidelines
We’re excited you’ve made it this page because it means you’re considering jumping into the vast and sometimes scary world that is writing and publishing.
- Number one rule is honesty — we ask for 100% true stories as honestly recalled by their authors.
- Content can be wide-ranging but should be related in some way to the military experience. Before you submit, read “About CTS” to better understand our vision.
- Good writing. What does that mean? Thoughtful, clear writing with a focused topic, logical flow, basic grammar rules. Edit and revise thoroughly, and avoid rambling. That said, feel free to use creative and experimental forms. Write in your true voice. Give life and structure to your story. Need inspiration? Check out some of our favorite Medium publications: GEN, Human Parts, Elemental
- While we’re focused on personal stories and experiences, commentary pieces and statements of opinion are acceptable if supported by well-researched and cited facts (use of hyperlinks to support your argument is highly encouraged).
- Length: Very flexible, but we’ve found pieces with 500–2,000 words work best. If you have a piece exceeding 2,500 words, consider pitching us a column or a series.
- We aim to be rank agnostic, with content focused on the human experience. However, we understand if rank descriptions are necessary in the context of your story.
- Don’t use copyrighted images. Free images can be found on Pixabay, Unsplash, Pexels, and other sites. We highlight encourage you to use your own photography! (Please indicate this in the photo caption).
- The following are strictly prohibited:
- Slander/personal vendettas (When referring to specific instances/individuals, use of pseudonyms is required. Negative or hostile comments towards individuals identified by name will need to be removed in most cases due to legal implications.)
- Creative and colorful language is encouraged; Unnecessary or excessive obscenities are not.
- Bigoted language or comments have no place here
- Sensitive, for official use only, and personally identifiable information are of course, not allowed. Practice good OPSEC!
Okay… so you’ve read (and followed) the guidelines above. You’ve drafted your story. Here’s how to submit:
A. If you’re brave enough to publish with your true name, we applaud you! We highly encourage first and last names, with service and base/location optional. If you’re ready to own your story, you’re just two steps away from submission:
- Create a (free) Medium account — this is your gateway to submit to CTS, develop your own writing, and explore a diverse range of content. Note: With a free account, you might not be able to read all articles on Medium, but we’ll be sure to publish all CTS pieces outside Medium’s metered paywall to ensure full access to readers with free accounts.
- Draft your story! Make sure you follow the guidelines outlined above.
- Email us at thecalltoserve.medium@gmail.com with 1) a link to your unpublished draft (on Medium), 2) your Medium username, and 3) a brief introduction to yourself.
B. While we encourage people to take ownership of their stories, we will also welcome anonymous submissions on a case-by-case basis (please provide your desired pseudonym). If you want to mask any personal details, simply annotate “Anonymous Submission” in the subject line and email your drafted story to thecalltoserve.medium@gmail.com.
C. We prefer unpublished drafts so our editors can work with you to make any necessary revisions. That said, if you chose to self-publish on Medium, we will absolutely still consider your piece for CTS.
Our curators will review every submission. For any submissions not accepted, we will provide candid constructive feedback on how to restructure or refine your work. We can’t wait to hear your story.
