The distinguishing feature of an online contest is expertise. People often use the term 'contest' and 'sweepstakes' interchangeably, but there is a crucial difference between the two.

Sweepstakes are games of chance, pure and simple. A random winner is selected from a pool of hopefuls. In the case of contests, you have to provide a deliverable in order to enter the contest. It could be a poem, a photograph, a piece of art or a recipe. Your entry will be pitted against entries sent by others and the best entry gets the prize. So, you see, contests have less to do with chance and more to do with skill.

Unlike sweepstakes, it is legal for contests to demand consideration of some kind. They may either charge an entry fee or use the product you deliver to help them promote their product. For instance, your winning recipe may be used to promote an ingredient or a winning piece of art may be used to endorse a new drawing tool.

Contests can be of different kinds. In fact, anything that allows you to display your special skill whether it is in photography, essay writing, animation, answering trivia questions, writing taglines or even having the cutest smile can become the subject of a contest.

Because of the element of skill involved, entering contests can be well worth your while. First of all, if there are a thousand people entering a sweepstake, the number will shrink to one-tenth of its size when it comes to a contest. The dearth of skill is one of the reasons. Entering contests requires more effort when compared with sweepstakes, which are easier and faster to enter.

It's not all about winning. Contests are advantageous to you as a person. It allows you to hone your skills and excel in your area of interest. You can unleash your creativity and acquire more knowledge. Whether you win or not, the feedback and comments left by visitors and judges help you improve. By comparing your deliverable with that of others, you can improve on your next entry and thus improve your chances of winning. What's more, you can enjoy yourself thoroughly by learning new things and trying out new stuff.

Winning online contests is more than pure luck. It shows you just how good you are. As a result, a win gives you a sense of achievement and a creditable sense of self-worth. Of course, the money or prize that comes with it is the icing on the cake!