Beginner’s Guide to Entering Sweepstakes

Entering sweepstakes can be an exciting and rewarding hobby. If you’re new to the world of sweepstakes, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started, along with some common terms and phrases you’ll encounter.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Newcomers

Find Reputable Sweepstakes

• I start by looking for reputable sweepstakes websites and social media pages. This is why I write here at OKWOW! Here you can find a variety of legitimate sweepstakes to enter all in one place

Read the Rules Carefully

• Before entering any sweepstakes, I make sure to read the official rules thoroughly. This helps me understand the eligibility criteria, entry limits, deadlines, and any other important details.

Enter Consistently

• Consistency is key in sweepstakes. I set aside a specific time each day or week to enter as many sweepstakes as I can. The more I enter, the better my chances of winning.

Keep Track of My Entries

• I keep a spreadsheet or use a sweepstakes management app to track the sweepstakes I’ve entered. This helps me avoid duplicate entries and ensures I don’t miss any important deadlines.

Follow Up on Wins

• When I receive a notification of a win, I promptly follow the instructions provided to claim my prize. It’s important to respond quickly to avoid missing out.

Common Terms and Phrases Used in Sweepstakes

• Sweepstakes: A promotional drawing in which prizes are given away to selected participants by chance.
• Contest: Unlike sweepstakes, contests are based on skill, where participants compete based on their abilities (e.g., writing, photography) to win prizes.
• Entry Period: The timeframe during which I can enter a sweepstake.
• Eligibility: The criteria I must meet to enter a sweepstake, such as age, location, and sometimes even specific purchase requirements.
• One Entry Per Person: This means I can only enter the sweepstake once. If I enter more than once, I might be disqualified.
• Daily Entry: I can enter these sweepstakes once per day, increasing my chances with each daily entry.
• Random Drawing: Winners are selected randomly from all eligible entries.
• Instant Win: Sweepstakes where I can find out immediately if I’ve won a prize after entering.
• Grand Prize: The biggest prize offered in a sweepstake.
• Secondary Prizes: Additional prizes besides the grand prize, often awarded to runners-up.
• Alternate Method of Entry (AMOE): A way to enter the sweepstakes without making a purchase, usually by mail or online form.

By following these steps and familiarizing myself with these terms, I’m well on my way to becoming a successful sweepstakes entrant. Good luck, and happy entering!