NCIS Reverse Bang FAQs
*New and Improved!*
We reserve the right to further clarify rules as needed and may update the FAQs from time to time.
Since FAQs can be updated and changed, we advise participants to read through them each year.
LAST UPDATED: 03/24/2024
(just some clean-up and clarification)
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COMMUNICATION:
Q: How do I reach the mod?
A: Send all art submissions and rough drafts to ncischallenge (at) gmail (dot) com. Please be sure to check the appropriate submission posts to make sure you are using the correct subject line and emailing all of the the requested information.
If you are communicating for any other reason, you may reach out to me at ncischallenge (at) gmail (dot) com or jacieleigh (at) gmail (dot) com. Please note, I generally only watch the challenge email around challenge submission dates. If you do not receive a response from me after a day or two, please use my personal email. Please always send any urgent requests to my personal email. If I do not respond in a few days, please reach out to co-mod rose_malmaison. She usually knows when I am out of town for a few days, and may be able to help in my absence.
Q: What information should I include in my email?
A: *If you are sending in your art submission, your subject line must include your LJ name and the number of your submission (if you are sending in more than one). Each submission must be sent in separately. Please be sure to check the Reverse Bang Art submission post to make sure you are using the correct subject line and emailing all of the the requested information.
*If you are sending in your rough draft, you must include the artwork number, the story title and your LJ name in the subject line. Please be sure to check the Reverse Bang rough draft submission post to make sure you are using the correct subject line and emailing all of the the requested information.
*If your story is not yet titled, please use *Untitled* in place of a title in the subject line.
*If you are emailing about the challenge, please always put the artwork number (for artwork and stories), plus the title (for stories) and your LJ name in the subject line. I get a lot of emails and this makes it easy to make sure artwork and stories are getting marked to the correct people, and are easy to find.
*If you are not participating in a challenge or you have a general question, not related to a specific story or author, you do not need to include anything specific, but please be sure to note what challenge you are asking about as I run multiple challenges.
Q: Why did I get a missed deadline notification? I'm sure I sent in my rough draft on time.
A: Please check your email subject line. If you did not include your LJ name in the subject line, I may have thought it was sent by someone else. Putting your LJ name in the subject line ensures the story will be marked under your name, and that it can be easily found. Also, please double check that you sent the rough draft to: ncischallenge (at) gmail (dot) com
Q: How often should I communicate with my partner?
A: Artists and Authors should reach out to their partner after the match-ups are posted. It is up to the pair to decide how often they will communicate and how closely they will work together. Authors should send a rough draft to the Artist by the due date. Artist should send finished artwork to Author by the due date. Please be sure to stay in communication with your partner, especially if you are running late, or if you have to drop out of the challenge.
*Artists should always respond to Authors to confirm they have received the rough draft.
*Authors should always respond to Artist to confirm they have received the artwork.
Q: I reached out to my partner, but I haven't heard back, What now?
A: It is always important to establish communication early, and let your partner know the best way to reach you. If your partner has not responded to your email in one week, you may also try to PM. You may also feel free to email the mod.
GENERAL:
Q: What is a Reverse Bang?
A: In the Reverse Bang, artists are allowed to post their artwork anonymously and those are claimed by the authors who then write a story based on the artwork.
Q: What is the minimum word count for the NCIS Reverse Bang?
A: The current minimum is 3,000 words for the Reverse Bang. There is no maximum.
Q: When can I sign up for the challenge?
A: Sign-ups are usually open in November, after the NCIS Big Bang master list is posted. Artist sign-ups generally close 31 Dec. Author sign-ups close the day before the art claims.
Q: Will the Big Bang and Reverse Bang run concurrently?
A: No. Although the Big Bang and the Reverse Bang will both run from this community, they will run at different times. The plans are: Spring sign-ups with posting in October for the Big Bang and Fall/Winter sign-ups with posting in May for the Reverse Bang.
Q: What are my responsibilities as a participant?
As a participant, you are expected to:
- Follow and adhere to challenge schedule
- Be sure to follow proper rules for submissions, including subject lines
- Provide an active email address where you can be reached
- Stay in contact with your assigned partner and notify them if you will be unreachable for more than 5 days
- Confirm to the sender when you have received story/artwork from your partner
- Request an extension from Mod if you expect to miss a deadline
- Notify Mod and your partner if you are running late, or dropping out of the challenge
- Respond to emails from Mod concerning your status, missed deadlines, etc.
- Confirm that you have posting access prior to your scheduled posting date
- Post only on your scheduled posting date
What is the best way to contact the mod?
A: You may comment to a post at this community, and I will get an alert, or you may email me. If you are sending in a rough draft, artwork or notification that you are running late, or dropping out of a challenge, you may email ncischallenge (at) gmail (dot) com. Please note, I generally only monitor this email address around challenge deadlines. If you have general questions at other times, you may contact me at jacieleigh (at) gmail (dot) com. I don't really mind if you send to both, but if it is challenge related (rough drafts and artwork) they may get lost if only sent to my personal email, so those must be sent to the challenge email.
STORIES:
Q: Can my story be part of a series or something I’ve already started?
A: Yes. Ideally, it would be best to have a stand-alone story and written within the challenge dates, however, as long as your challenge story can be read as a stand-alone (not requiring one to read the rest of the series for it to make sense) and as long as no part of this story has been posted elsewhere, it is acceptable.
Q: Can I post a WIP?
A: No. All challenge stories must be marked complete when they are posted. Challenge stories may be edited after they're posted, but cannot be extended/added to. If you want to continue your story, it must be posted as a separate, new story. If you would like to write a sequel or prequel it must be posted after the challenge has been completed and all challenge stories have been posted.
Q: Are crossovers allowed?
A: Absolutely, as long as your lead character is from the original NCIS series and has appeared in at least 10 episodes. Keep in mind this is an NCIS challenge, so NCIS should be the primary fandom in your story/artwork if you choose to do a crossover.
Note: Other NCIS franchises are considered crossovers.
Authors:
You can only use a crossover fandom that is approved by your artist, either listed as part of the art claims prompt, or you may ask permission to use a specific crossover fandom.
Artists:
Keep in mind that if you’re posting artwork for a cross-over, you may limit your chances of who may claim your art to people who are familiar with your crossover characters.
Q: Can the stories be based on the actors?
A: No. This is a fan fiction challenge based on the characters of NCIS. Stories must be based on the NCIS characters, not the actors who portray them.
Q: What characters can I use in my story?
A: One of your characters must be a regular NCIS character and must have appeared in a minimum of 10 episodes. You may pair the NCIS regular with an original, cross-over or any NCIS character. As long as one of your main characters is a NCIS regular, you may use as many or as few other NCIS characters as you would like. Keep in mind, though, this is a NCIS challenge and most readers will want to read stories that include NCIS characters.
Q: Are there any restrictions on category, genre, pairings, ratings or type of story?
A: No. You may write whatever you would like. You will be asked to choose a category (het, gen or slash), note your pairings (if any) and ratings.
Q: Do I need to have a beta read my story?
A: Not for the rough draft submission, but it absolutely must be beta-read before the posting date. If you don’t normally use a beta, watch the ncis_discuss community for our beta post. You may also check with your artist. Some artists are happy to serve as your beta since they’re reading through your story anyway. If you are unable to locate a beta through the community, please notify the mods and we will do what we can to help.
Q: Can I submit more than one Reverse Bang Story?
A: Watch the art claims. Initially writers can only claim one artwork. If there is unclaimed artwork, we may allow authors to pick up a second story.
ROUGH DRAFTS:
Q: Does my story need to be completed by the rough draft due date?
A: Ideally, your story should be completed in rough draft (pre-beta) form. Your story should be at the point where it needs some polishing and perhaps a little tweaking here and there. With that said, we will allow you to submit a rough draft as long as you are sure you are at least 80% finished with full intent of completing the story in time to post. If you submit a rough draft AFTER the deadline, it should be a completed story, but can still be in the rough draft (not beta'd) stage.
Q: Where do I send my rough draft?
A: Watch for a post a week or two before the due date. That post will include instructions for submitting your rough draft. Please follow the instructions and include all requested information.
Q: What if I'm running late?
A: Please email the mod and request an extension ONLY if you're 100% positive you can complete your story in time to post in May. It is your responsibility to follow the challenge schedule and to notify the mod, and your partner, if you're running late or dropping out of the challenge. If you submit a rough draft AFTER the deadline, it should be a completed story, but can still be in the rough draft (not beta'd) stage. If we do not receive your rough draft and the requested submission information, you will not be added to the posting schedule.
SCHEDULES AND AVAILABILITY:
Q: Are the challenge schedule dates carved in stone?
A: We do our best to follow the posted schedule. However, different occurrences may determine that a change must be made. For instance, if no one is available to post on week one of the posting schedule, we will adjust the posting date back rather than schedule someone who cannot post that day. The final schedule will be determined by the number of stories completed and the posting availability of the participants.
Q: I thought I was available, but something came up on my posting date at the last minute. What do I do?
A: Remember that you are part of an Artist/Author team and either member may make the Master Post. See if your partner can make the initial post. If neither of you are available to post on your scheduled date, please notify solariana ASAP, prior to your posting date.
Q: If I miss my scheduled posting date, can I post later?
A: Contact solariana ASAP. Do NOT post on a different date without permission. If you miss your scheduled posting date, you will not be allowed to make a master post to the community, however, your story and accompanying artwork may be linked in the master list at the discretion of the mod. Please remember that the artist, or your beta, may also make the master post to the community on your scheduled posting date.
*TIP:
If you're getting toward the end of your scheduled posting date and are not quite ready, go ahead and make your master post to the community and note that your story will be linked soon. That way, your master post will have the correct posting date and you won't be posting on someone else's day. Please note, if you do not link your story in a timely fashion (within 24 hours), we reserve the right to remove your post. It is always best to stay in communication with solariana and advise your status.
Q: What if there are certain days around the posting time that I will not be available to post?
A: We will make a post prior to putting the schedule together asking what dates you’re not available to post. Please limit these dates to days that you will not have internet access (due to medical reasons, vacations, travel, long work days, etc.). Also keep in mind that either member of an Artist/Author team can make the post. The fewer *I can’t post* dates we get, the easier it is to schedule without having to delay the go live date.
*NOTE: Schedule preference will be given to those who submit their rough drafts and availability preferences on time. As a mod, my least favorite thing to do is to have to send out "missed deadline" and "your partner hasn't heard from you* emails. If you're going to be late, please be sure to contact me and let me know your status ASAP.
Q: I signed up for the challenge, but I'm not on the posting schedule. Why?
A: If you do not submit a rough draft, you will not be listed on the posting schedule. Unless I hear otherwise from a participant, I will assume they have dropped out of the challenge, if a rough draft was not received by the deadline. If you submitted a rough draft, but it did not meet the minimum WC (word count) for the challenge, you may be left off of the posting schedule until you submit a draft that meets the minimum WC. Contact the mod ASAP to discuss. By signing up for the challenge, you are responsible to follow the schedule, which includes sending in a rough draft that meets the challenge requirements.
*Note: It is up to Mod's discretion whether or not participants who missed the deadline will be added to the schedule. If you are not on the schedule, please email Mod to discuss.
Q: Will there be mandatory check ins?
A: Check-ins are not mandatory. However, there's nothing worse than a participant who does not communicate, so you are encouraged to comment on the check-in posts to let us know you're still around.
POSTING:
Q: Where should I post my Reverse Bang story?
A: You may post it to your own site of your preference (do not post the actual story to the community, only links). AO3 is the most popular choice. You may post and link the story to more than one site (i.e. both AO3 and LJ). Keep in mind that your post cannot be locked and if your comments are set to block anonymous commenters, you may be blocking someone who wants to comment, but doesn’t have an account where you have chosen to post. Do not post your story/art anywhere until your scheduled posting date. (Yes, you can make a PRIVATE locked post to make sure everything is correct and ready to go, but do not unlock the post until your posting date.)
Q: Where should I post my Reverse Bang art?
A: Like the Authors, Artists may post to their own site of their preference where the author may link to it. Or they may send the art to the author to post with the story. Do not post the art anywhere until your scheduled date (unless PRIVATE locked). Art may be posted with the master link with the story link, but must either be thumbnail size, no larger than 3" x 5", or behind a cut.
Q: My story is posted in several chapters. Should I link each chapter to the community post?
A: The Master Post can include all chapter links, plus a link to the artwork, provided there is a separate link (it’s fine to post art with the story). The minimum would be to post the link to the main page of the story.
Q: If I'm posting over two days, does my story still need to be marked complete?
A: All challenge stories must be marked complete when they are posted. When you post your first chapter, it should be marked as a complete story. This is to ensure readers that challenge stories are complete.
*Note: Most stories must be posted in one day. Authors with longer stories may be given an optional second day to post at Mod's discretion.
Q: Who should make the Master Post to the community, the Author or the Artist?
A: Traditionally, it is the Author who posts, but either team member may submit the Master Post. If the Author cannot make the post, they may ask their Artist, Beta or another Proxy to make the Master Post on their scheduled day. The Artist may also make a separate Master Post on the scheduled day which may include the art, and also a link to the story. The Artist post is optional, if the Author has created a Master Post.
Q: Who will have posting access?
A: Everyone listed on the Challenge posting schedule will be given access. Participants will need to join (rather than *subscribe*) the community to be given posting access***. Please note, in this community, you should only post links to your story/artwork on your scheduled posting day. If you would like to start any other related posts, such as questions, comments, teasers, etc, please do so at < lj user ="ncis_discuss">.
***I have to manually give members posting access - as it is not all members, but only those participating in the current challenge. However, I can only give posting access to actual members (not those just subscribed only. I am also sometimes away from internet access up to 12 hours a day, so please be sure you have posting access prior to your scheduled posting date (you can check this on our profile page).***
POSTING LATE:
Q: Can I post my story late?
A: Each Author/Artist team will be assigned a posting date in May. This is the only date you can post to the community. If you do not post on your assigned posting date, you are considered "late".
Late Authors who miss their scheduled posting date:
- Will not be allowed to make a master post to the community.
- Will need to wait until (at least one day) after the final scheduled story is posted, to post their late story.
- Can provide a link to their story to the Mod for inclusion on the Challenge Master List.
- Will be allowed to participate in the next year's challenge at Mod's discretion, but will not be allowed to make a claim in the first day the art claim is opened.
- Anyone who repeatedly posts late stories may be banned or given a later claiming time at Mod's discretion.
- NOTE: If the story is not posted by June, the Artist can rescind the Author's right to use the artwork.
Q: My Author didn't post a story by our assigned date, can I post my artwork?
A: Yes, the Artist may still post the Artwork to the community on the assigned posting date, whether the story is posted or not. If the story is not posted by June, the Artist can rescind the Author's right to use the artwork. Artwork can be submitted again to the following year's challenge as long as no one has posted it with a story.
COLLABORATIONS, ARTIST/AUTHOR PARTNERSHIPS:
Q: How do I contact my partner?
A: Go to the match-up post and follow the link back to the Author or Artist sign-ups. All participants should have entered an email where they may be contacted. Please be sure to make contact early and stay in touch.
Once artwork has been claimed, Artists are welcome to reach out to the Author(s) who claimed their work. While they do not have to wait until the official match-up post is up, participants should not make it publicly known who the artists are until the match-up post is live.
Q: How much contact/communication is required between partners?
A: Authors and Artists should communicate ASAP after match-ups are posted to ensure you have correct contact information. Authors may work from the art, or may confer with artist as to what their thoughts of a story may be, or what inspired the artwork. Authors must send their rough draft, or completed story to the Artist. Artists should respond to Author to notify them that the rough draft or story file has been received. Likewise, when Artist sends artwork to the Author, Author should respond to Artist that the artwork has been received. Please be sure to let your partner know if you may be unreachable for a time. You do not need to supply details, just dates that you may not be reachable, so your partner doesn't panic when you don't respond to emails.
Q: How much collaboration should there be between Author and Artist?
A: It is up to you. We ask that you be respectful of the other, and respond to communications in a timely manner. One person does not need to approve the other’s work, but if you want to work together to bounce ideas around, that is perfectly fine. It is also acceptable to work alone. Do not pressure your partner to collaborate if they prefer not to.
Q: What is the due date for the Bang Challenge Artist to have their work to the Author?
A: The due date for completed artwork is 30 April for the Reverse Bang. Many Artists will send it early to ensure their Author is happy with the work and to allow time for minor changes. This will eliminate issues of last-minute computer crashes or emergencies, giving the Author time to upload, review and get ready to post the artwork and catch any mistakes in the spelling of the story title or Author name, etc. If the Artist goes MIA*, Author may contact Mod and Mod will add Author and Artist names, and the title, to the original artwork. Again communication is the key. If you are going to be late, email your partner and let them know.
*added to clarify: 30 April is the due date for completed artwork to be sent to the author. Artist can be given a one-week grace period. If Artist has not submitted completed artwork, and has not communicated with their author and the mod within one week of the due date, they are considered MIA and a mod may add text to the artwork.
Q: What if my other team member drops out?
A: If an Artist is not communicating, please notify Mod [at jacieleigh(at)gmail(dot)com] if you have not heard from your artist by the Artwork due date. We have challenge mods who can add your title and the author and artist names to the original artwork. If the Author disappears with no communication, and/or misses the rough draft due date, and does not post a story, they will be banned from future challenges. If the Author fails to turn in a rough draft or fails to post a story, Artist may submit the artwork for the next year's challenge, provided it has not been used or posted elsewhere, or Artist may choose to give the artwork to another Author, provided it is not posted prior to June. Artist may also choose to use artwork themselves.
ARTWORK:
Q: What qualifies as art? (Part 1), Are there any limitations?
A: Most artists at least provide cover art or a banner, but you are not limited to that. Art may be photoshop, illustrations, videos, etc. You should produce at least one piece of art that can be posted with or linked to from the story. You may certainly produce as much art as you would like. If you want to portray a scene from each chapter, favorite scenes, chapter headings, icons, wallpapers, create multiple banners, etc., you are more than welcome to do so. You may submit all or allow the Author to choose (and they may choose ALL!). Your art should be based on the fiction it is representing.
Q: What qualifies as art? (Part 2)
A: Art definition:
The expression or application of human creative skill and imagination, typically in a visual form such as painting or sculpture, producing works to be appreciated primarily for their beauty or emotional power.
The art you submit must be created by you. You may not submit someone else's artwork. Untouched or cropped downloaded photos are not acceptable submissions for art. Simply adding text to an otherwise untouched or cropped downloaded photo is also not acceptable. You must artistically alter the photo beyond adding text and cropping. Moderators may disqualify art or may ask to see the originals that you worked from to determine whether your submission is acceptable or not. If you are asked to supply originals and fail to do so, you may be banned from future challenges. Creating a collage is acceptable.
Q: Can an artist submit something already created, or must this be a new piece?
A: Ideally, artwork would be something created specifically for this challenge, but as long as it is the Artist's original work and has not been previously posted to the internet*, it is acceptable.
*However, if artwork was created for this challenge in a previous year, and either was not claimed, or was claimed, but the author failed to post a story, Artist is allowed to submit the artwork the following year, provided it has not been used or posted elsewhere.
Q: Will the Artist submit only their original art for posting or can they update it after reading the story?
A: Artists may update the original artwork, and are welcome to add more artwork based on the story. Artist must provide at least one banner that includes the Author's name and the story title.
ART CLAIMS:
Q: How does the Reverse Bang claims work?
A: Artists will submit artwork, which will be posted anonymously on an Author Claim post, Authors can claim the artwork to base a story on. The art will be posted at least 24 hours before the claims go live. Once the claims are live, art will be claimed on a first come, first serve basis. Authors may submit a 1st and 2nd choice (or more). In the event that someone beats them on their first claim, they will be assigned their second choice (if unclaimed). If there is unclaimed art after a time (usually 1-2 days), Authors will be allowed to claim additional art to write for. Please do not claim more art than you have time to write stories for. If there is still unclaimed artwork after a couple of days, we may open the claims to Authors who did not sign up.
Q: As a Reverse Bang Artist, am I limited to one piece of art?
A: No. You may submit art for up to three stories. You may also develop more than one piece of art for the same story. Only one piece of art may be submitted for the claim per story prompt, although, you can make it a collage if you have created multiple pieces of art, or you may choose the piece you believe is most likely to be claimed.
Q: In the Reverse Bang, what if the number of Artists and Authors don't match?
A: If there is more art than Authors, Authors will be allowed to claim additional artwork. If there are more Authors than Artwork, we may open up claims for a second round. We may also allow Authors who did not sign-up make claims.
Q: I create art and write stories. Can I claim my own artwork for the Reverse Bang challenge?
A: Yes, as long as you are signed up as an author, or wait until the claims are opened to those who did not sign up, you may claim any unclaimed piece including your own. The artwork must be entered into the art claims and the claims are first-come, first-serve. We only allow one claim per artwork, so if someone else claims it first, it's theirs. My suggestion is, if you really want to use a piece you created, then keep it for yourself and submit something else to the Reverse Bang Challenge.
Q: An Author claimed artwork for the Reverse Bang, but did not post a story for the challenge. What happens?
A: The art was claimed for the Reverse Bang Challenge. By putting the art up for claim, Artist has only given permission for a story to be created around that art for the duration of the challenge. If the challenge ends and Author fails to post a story, they lose the right to use the art and they must request written permission from the Artist to use the art after the challenge. If Author fails to finish a story or post a story by the end of the challenge, Artist may deny Author the right to use the art and may submit the art for the next Reverse Bang challenge as long as it has not been used or posted elsewhere. If a story is posted on the scheduled challenge date, the Author retains the right to post the art with the story and may continue to do so. Art that has previously been claimed AND posted with a story, should not be submitted for another Reverse Bang challenge.
Q: What happens if art is submitted for the Reverse Bang claims, but is not claimed?
A: Usually, there are more Authors than Artists. I'd like to think chances are slim that art would not be claimed. If there is a case where art is not claimed, we may allow Authors to pick up another piece of art for another story, or may allow Authors who did not originally sign up for the challenge to claim art. If any art is not claimed during the challenge, it may be submitted the following year provided it is not posted or used elsewhere.
Q: How is the order of the submissions determined for the Reverse Bang Art Claim?
A: When I receive artwork for the challenge, it is numbered in the order in which I receive it. I then take that number list and use a Random Sequence Generator to determine the order.
UNCLAIMED ART:
Q: What happens if an Author doesn't claim my Reverse Bang artwork?
A: As much as we hope every piece will be claimed by an author, there are no guarantees that an author will be inspired enough to choose your artwork. In most cases, authors are interested, but may have chosen another piece already or they may not be comfortable with the parameters you've placed on the piece. If your artwork is not claimed by an Author, you may enter it again in next year's challenge (provided it is not used or posted elsewhere). If you choose not to resubmit the artwork for a future challenge, you may offer it to another Author after the final Reverse Bang story is posted for the current year's challenge (end of May), or may use it yourself.
DEADLINES, POSTING LATE and DROPPING OUT:
Q: What if I have to drop out?
A: Basically, communication is key. If you drop out before making a claim or offering a story/artwork for claims, there is no penalty. If you drop out after you have been matched up with someone, it depends on your timing and your communication. See below.
-Just to clarify, you MUST contact the mod if you are dropping out after you made a claim, or if your artwork was claimed. Without notification to the Mod, you are considered "MIA", which will result in you being banned from future challenges.
- If an Artist drops out before submitting artwork, there is no penalty.
- If an Artist goes MIA afterward, the Author will be allowed to post their story with the original artwork submitted. Challenge Mod reserves the right to add the story title, author and artist names to the original art. MIA artist may be banned from future challenges at mod's discretion.
- If the Author drops out before claiming artwork, there is no penalty.
- If an Author drops out of the Reverse Bang with notification (to both Mod AND Artist) after claiming artwork and prior to the rough draft due date, they may be banned from the Reverse Bang for one year (at Mod's discretion) if the artwork is not claimed by someone else.
- If Author notifies Mod And Artist early and the artwork is claimed by someone else, they will not be banned for the next year.
- If Author fails to notify both Mod and Artist prior to the rough draft due date, they may be banned for more than one year, or permanently, at Mod's discretion.
- If an Author fails to post a story, they will be banned from future Reverse Bang challenges.
- If an Author misses their assigned posting date, they may send a link to Mod for the Master List. Any Author who misses their assigned posting date, but posts their story late, can still participate the following year, but will have a one-day penalty on the next year's claims. Instead of claiming on Saturday, they will have to wait until Sunday to make a claim.
Q: An Author claimed artwork for the Reverse Bang, but did not post a story for the challenge. What happens?
A: The art was claimed for the Reverse Bang Challenge. By putting the art up for claim, Artist has only given permission for a story to be created around that art for the duration of the challenge. If the challenge ends and Author fails to post a story, they lose the right to use the art and they must request written permission from the Artist to use the art after the challenge. If Author fails to finish a story or post a story by the end of the challenge, Artist may deny Author the right to use the art and may submit the art for the next Reverse Bang challenge as long as it has not been used or posted elsewhere. If a story is posted by the end of the challenge, the Author retains the right to post the art with the story and may continue to do so. Art that has previously been claimed AND posted with a story, should not be submitted for another Reverse Bang challenge.
USE YOUR OWN WORK:
Submitting someone else's story or artwork as your own is not acceptable. It is plagiarism (the practice of taking someone else's work or ideas and passing them off as one's own). Fandom people are usually quick to spot plagiarism of artwork and stories. Many fanfic artists and authors work in multiple fandoms. Please be sure that anything you submit is your own work. If you submit work that someone else can prove is plagiarized, you will be banned from future challenges at the discretion of the mod.
MORE QUESTIONS?:
Q: I have a question and I do not see the answer above. Who can help?
A: Please feel free to post to this thread or you may email me at jacieleigh (at) gmail (dot) com. I run multiple challenges so please be sure to clarify which challenge you're asking about.
We reserve the right to further clarify rules as needed and may update the FAQs from time to time.
We reserve the right to further clarify rules as needed and may update the FAQs from time to time.
Since FAQs can be updated and changed, we advise participants to read through them each year.
LAST UPDATED: 03/24/2024
(just some clean-up and clarification)
We have had some feedback about the small print on this page, but have had no success in being able to change it. However, you can hold down your crtl button and the + sign, to enlarge the print. The crtl button and the - sign will make the size smaller. Or you can change the Zoom percentage on your browser.
COMMUNICATION:
Q: How do I reach the mod?
A: Send all art submissions and rough drafts to ncischallenge (at) gmail (dot) com. Please be sure to check the appropriate submission posts to make sure you are using the correct subject line and emailing all of the the requested information.
If you are communicating for any other reason, you may reach out to me at ncischallenge (at) gmail (dot) com or jacieleigh (at) gmail (dot) com. Please note, I generally only watch the challenge email around challenge submission dates. If you do not receive a response from me after a day or two, please use my personal email. Please always send any urgent requests to my personal email. If I do not respond in a few days, please reach out to co-mod rose_malmaison. She usually knows when I am out of town for a few days, and may be able to help in my absence.
Q: What information should I include in my email?
A: *If you are sending in your art submission, your subject line must include your LJ name and the number of your submission (if you are sending in more than one). Each submission must be sent in separately. Please be sure to check the Reverse Bang Art submission post to make sure you are using the correct subject line and emailing all of the the requested information.
*If you are sending in your rough draft, you must include the artwork number, the story title and your LJ name in the subject line. Please be sure to check the Reverse Bang rough draft submission post to make sure you are using the correct subject line and emailing all of the the requested information.
*If your story is not yet titled, please use *Untitled* in place of a title in the subject line.
*If you are emailing about the challenge, please always put the artwork number (for artwork and stories), plus the title (for stories) and your LJ name in the subject line. I get a lot of emails and this makes it easy to make sure artwork and stories are getting marked to the correct people, and are easy to find.
*If you are not participating in a challenge or you have a general question, not related to a specific story or author, you do not need to include anything specific, but please be sure to note what challenge you are asking about as I run multiple challenges.
Q: Why did I get a missed deadline notification? I'm sure I sent in my rough draft on time.
A: Please check your email subject line. If you did not include your LJ name in the subject line, I may have thought it was sent by someone else. Putting your LJ name in the subject line ensures the story will be marked under your name, and that it can be easily found. Also, please double check that you sent the rough draft to: ncischallenge (at) gmail (dot) com
Q: How often should I communicate with my partner?
A: Artists and Authors should reach out to their partner after the match-ups are posted. It is up to the pair to decide how often they will communicate and how closely they will work together. Authors should send a rough draft to the Artist by the due date. Artist should send finished artwork to Author by the due date. Please be sure to stay in communication with your partner, especially if you are running late, or if you have to drop out of the challenge.
*Artists should always respond to Authors to confirm they have received the rough draft.
*Authors should always respond to Artist to confirm they have received the artwork.
Q: I reached out to my partner, but I haven't heard back, What now?
A: It is always important to establish communication early, and let your partner know the best way to reach you. If your partner has not responded to your email in one week, you may also try to PM. You may also feel free to email the mod.
GENERAL:
Q: What is a Reverse Bang?
A: In the Reverse Bang, artists are allowed to post their artwork anonymously and those are claimed by the authors who then write a story based on the artwork.
Q: What is the minimum word count for the NCIS Reverse Bang?
A: The current minimum is 3,000 words for the Reverse Bang. There is no maximum.
Q: When can I sign up for the challenge?
A: Sign-ups are usually open in November, after the NCIS Big Bang master list is posted. Artist sign-ups generally close 31 Dec. Author sign-ups close the day before the art claims.
Q: Will the Big Bang and Reverse Bang run concurrently?
A: No. Although the Big Bang and the Reverse Bang will both run from this community, they will run at different times. The plans are: Spring sign-ups with posting in October for the Big Bang and Fall/Winter sign-ups with posting in May for the Reverse Bang.
Q: What are my responsibilities as a participant?
As a participant, you are expected to:
- Follow and adhere to challenge schedule
- Be sure to follow proper rules for submissions, including subject lines
- Provide an active email address where you can be reached
- Stay in contact with your assigned partner and notify them if you will be unreachable for more than 5 days
- Confirm to the sender when you have received story/artwork from your partner
- Request an extension from Mod if you expect to miss a deadline
- Notify Mod and your partner if you are running late, or dropping out of the challenge
- Respond to emails from Mod concerning your status, missed deadlines, etc.
- Confirm that you have posting access prior to your scheduled posting date
- Post only on your scheduled posting date
What is the best way to contact the mod?
A: You may comment to a post at this community, and I will get an alert, or you may email me. If you are sending in a rough draft, artwork or notification that you are running late, or dropping out of a challenge, you may email ncischallenge (at) gmail (dot) com. Please note, I generally only monitor this email address around challenge deadlines. If you have general questions at other times, you may contact me at jacieleigh (at) gmail (dot) com. I don't really mind if you send to both, but if it is challenge related (rough drafts and artwork) they may get lost if only sent to my personal email, so those must be sent to the challenge email.
STORIES:
Q: Can my story be part of a series or something I’ve already started?
A: Yes. Ideally, it would be best to have a stand-alone story and written within the challenge dates, however, as long as your challenge story can be read as a stand-alone (not requiring one to read the rest of the series for it to make sense) and as long as no part of this story has been posted elsewhere, it is acceptable.
Q: Can I post a WIP?
A: No. All challenge stories must be marked complete when they are posted. Challenge stories may be edited after they're posted, but cannot be extended/added to. If you want to continue your story, it must be posted as a separate, new story. If you would like to write a sequel or prequel it must be posted after the challenge has been completed and all challenge stories have been posted.
Q: Are crossovers allowed?
A: Absolutely, as long as your lead character is from the original NCIS series and has appeared in at least 10 episodes. Keep in mind this is an NCIS challenge, so NCIS should be the primary fandom in your story/artwork if you choose to do a crossover.
Note: Other NCIS franchises are considered crossovers.
Authors:
You can only use a crossover fandom that is approved by your artist, either listed as part of the art claims prompt, or you may ask permission to use a specific crossover fandom.
Artists:
Keep in mind that if you’re posting artwork for a cross-over, you may limit your chances of who may claim your art to people who are familiar with your crossover characters.
Q: Can the stories be based on the actors?
A: No. This is a fan fiction challenge based on the characters of NCIS. Stories must be based on the NCIS characters, not the actors who portray them.
Q: What characters can I use in my story?
A: One of your characters must be a regular NCIS character and must have appeared in a minimum of 10 episodes. You may pair the NCIS regular with an original, cross-over or any NCIS character. As long as one of your main characters is a NCIS regular, you may use as many or as few other NCIS characters as you would like. Keep in mind, though, this is a NCIS challenge and most readers will want to read stories that include NCIS characters.
Q: Are there any restrictions on category, genre, pairings, ratings or type of story?
A: No. You may write whatever you would like. You will be asked to choose a category (het, gen or slash), note your pairings (if any) and ratings.
Q: Do I need to have a beta read my story?
A: Not for the rough draft submission, but it absolutely must be beta-read before the posting date. If you don’t normally use a beta, watch the ncis_discuss community for our beta post. You may also check with your artist. Some artists are happy to serve as your beta since they’re reading through your story anyway. If you are unable to locate a beta through the community, please notify the mods and we will do what we can to help.
Q: Can I submit more than one Reverse Bang Story?
A: Watch the art claims. Initially writers can only claim one artwork. If there is unclaimed artwork, we may allow authors to pick up a second story.
ROUGH DRAFTS:
Q: Does my story need to be completed by the rough draft due date?
A: Ideally, your story should be completed in rough draft (pre-beta) form. Your story should be at the point where it needs some polishing and perhaps a little tweaking here and there. With that said, we will allow you to submit a rough draft as long as you are sure you are at least 80% finished with full intent of completing the story in time to post. If you submit a rough draft AFTER the deadline, it should be a completed story, but can still be in the rough draft (not beta'd) stage.
Q: Where do I send my rough draft?
A: Watch for a post a week or two before the due date. That post will include instructions for submitting your rough draft. Please follow the instructions and include all requested information.
Q: What if I'm running late?
A: Please email the mod and request an extension ONLY if you're 100% positive you can complete your story in time to post in May. It is your responsibility to follow the challenge schedule and to notify the mod, and your partner, if you're running late or dropping out of the challenge. If you submit a rough draft AFTER the deadline, it should be a completed story, but can still be in the rough draft (not beta'd) stage. If we do not receive your rough draft and the requested submission information, you will not be added to the posting schedule.
SCHEDULES AND AVAILABILITY:
Q: Are the challenge schedule dates carved in stone?
A: We do our best to follow the posted schedule. However, different occurrences may determine that a change must be made. For instance, if no one is available to post on week one of the posting schedule, we will adjust the posting date back rather than schedule someone who cannot post that day. The final schedule will be determined by the number of stories completed and the posting availability of the participants.
Q: I thought I was available, but something came up on my posting date at the last minute. What do I do?
A: Remember that you are part of an Artist/Author team and either member may make the Master Post. See if your partner can make the initial post. If neither of you are available to post on your scheduled date, please notify solariana ASAP, prior to your posting date.
Q: If I miss my scheduled posting date, can I post later?
A: Contact solariana ASAP. Do NOT post on a different date without permission. If you miss your scheduled posting date, you will not be allowed to make a master post to the community, however, your story and accompanying artwork may be linked in the master list at the discretion of the mod. Please remember that the artist, or your beta, may also make the master post to the community on your scheduled posting date.
*TIP:
If you're getting toward the end of your scheduled posting date and are not quite ready, go ahead and make your master post to the community and note that your story will be linked soon. That way, your master post will have the correct posting date and you won't be posting on someone else's day. Please note, if you do not link your story in a timely fashion (within 24 hours), we reserve the right to remove your post. It is always best to stay in communication with solariana and advise your status.
Q: What if there are certain days around the posting time that I will not be available to post?
A: We will make a post prior to putting the schedule together asking what dates you’re not available to post. Please limit these dates to days that you will not have internet access (due to medical reasons, vacations, travel, long work days, etc.). Also keep in mind that either member of an Artist/Author team can make the post. The fewer *I can’t post* dates we get, the easier it is to schedule without having to delay the go live date.
*NOTE: Schedule preference will be given to those who submit their rough drafts and availability preferences on time. As a mod, my least favorite thing to do is to have to send out "missed deadline" and "your partner hasn't heard from you* emails. If you're going to be late, please be sure to contact me and let me know your status ASAP.
Q: I signed up for the challenge, but I'm not on the posting schedule. Why?
A: If you do not submit a rough draft, you will not be listed on the posting schedule. Unless I hear otherwise from a participant, I will assume they have dropped out of the challenge, if a rough draft was not received by the deadline. If you submitted a rough draft, but it did not meet the minimum WC (word count) for the challenge, you may be left off of the posting schedule until you submit a draft that meets the minimum WC. Contact the mod ASAP to discuss. By signing up for the challenge, you are responsible to follow the schedule, which includes sending in a rough draft that meets the challenge requirements.
*Note: It is up to Mod's discretion whether or not participants who missed the deadline will be added to the schedule. If you are not on the schedule, please email Mod to discuss.
Q: Will there be mandatory check ins?
A: Check-ins are not mandatory. However, there's nothing worse than a participant who does not communicate, so you are encouraged to comment on the check-in posts to let us know you're still around.
POSTING:
Q: Where should I post my Reverse Bang story?
A: You may post it to your own site of your preference (do not post the actual story to the community, only links). AO3 is the most popular choice. You may post and link the story to more than one site (i.e. both AO3 and LJ). Keep in mind that your post cannot be locked and if your comments are set to block anonymous commenters, you may be blocking someone who wants to comment, but doesn’t have an account where you have chosen to post. Do not post your story/art anywhere until your scheduled posting date. (Yes, you can make a PRIVATE locked post to make sure everything is correct and ready to go, but do not unlock the post until your posting date.)
Q: Where should I post my Reverse Bang art?
A: Like the Authors, Artists may post to their own site of their preference where the author may link to it. Or they may send the art to the author to post with the story. Do not post the art anywhere until your scheduled date (unless PRIVATE locked). Art may be posted with the master link with the story link, but must either be thumbnail size, no larger than 3" x 5", or behind a cut.
Q: My story is posted in several chapters. Should I link each chapter to the community post?
A: The Master Post can include all chapter links, plus a link to the artwork, provided there is a separate link (it’s fine to post art with the story). The minimum would be to post the link to the main page of the story.
Q: If I'm posting over two days, does my story still need to be marked complete?
A: All challenge stories must be marked complete when they are posted. When you post your first chapter, it should be marked as a complete story. This is to ensure readers that challenge stories are complete.
*Note: Most stories must be posted in one day. Authors with longer stories may be given an optional second day to post at Mod's discretion.
Q: Who should make the Master Post to the community, the Author or the Artist?
A: Traditionally, it is the Author who posts, but either team member may submit the Master Post. If the Author cannot make the post, they may ask their Artist, Beta or another Proxy to make the Master Post on their scheduled day. The Artist may also make a separate Master Post on the scheduled day which may include the art, and also a link to the story. The Artist post is optional, if the Author has created a Master Post.
Q: Who will have posting access?
A: Everyone listed on the Challenge posting schedule will be given access. Participants will need to join (rather than *subscribe*) the community to be given posting access***. Please note, in this community, you should only post links to your story/artwork on your scheduled posting day. If you would like to start any other related posts, such as questions, comments, teasers, etc, please do so at < lj user ="ncis_discuss">.
***I have to manually give members posting access - as it is not all members, but only those participating in the current challenge. However, I can only give posting access to actual members (not those just subscribed only. I am also sometimes away from internet access up to 12 hours a day, so please be sure you have posting access prior to your scheduled posting date (you can check this on our profile page).***
POSTING LATE:
Q: Can I post my story late?
A: Each Author/Artist team will be assigned a posting date in May. This is the only date you can post to the community. If you do not post on your assigned posting date, you are considered "late".
Late Authors who miss their scheduled posting date:
- Will not be allowed to make a master post to the community.
- Will need to wait until (at least one day) after the final scheduled story is posted, to post their late story.
- Can provide a link to their story to the Mod for inclusion on the Challenge Master List.
- Will be allowed to participate in the next year's challenge at Mod's discretion, but will not be allowed to make a claim in the first day the art claim is opened.
- Anyone who repeatedly posts late stories may be banned or given a later claiming time at Mod's discretion.
- NOTE: If the story is not posted by June, the Artist can rescind the Author's right to use the artwork.
Q: My Author didn't post a story by our assigned date, can I post my artwork?
A: Yes, the Artist may still post the Artwork to the community on the assigned posting date, whether the story is posted or not. If the story is not posted by June, the Artist can rescind the Author's right to use the artwork. Artwork can be submitted again to the following year's challenge as long as no one has posted it with a story.
COLLABORATIONS, ARTIST/AUTHOR PARTNERSHIPS:
Q: How do I contact my partner?
A: Go to the match-up post and follow the link back to the Author or Artist sign-ups. All participants should have entered an email where they may be contacted. Please be sure to make contact early and stay in touch.
Once artwork has been claimed, Artists are welcome to reach out to the Author(s) who claimed their work. While they do not have to wait until the official match-up post is up, participants should not make it publicly known who the artists are until the match-up post is live.
Q: How much contact/communication is required between partners?
A: Authors and Artists should communicate ASAP after match-ups are posted to ensure you have correct contact information. Authors may work from the art, or may confer with artist as to what their thoughts of a story may be, or what inspired the artwork. Authors must send their rough draft, or completed story to the Artist. Artists should respond to Author to notify them that the rough draft or story file has been received. Likewise, when Artist sends artwork to the Author, Author should respond to Artist that the artwork has been received. Please be sure to let your partner know if you may be unreachable for a time. You do not need to supply details, just dates that you may not be reachable, so your partner doesn't panic when you don't respond to emails.
Q: How much collaboration should there be between Author and Artist?
A: It is up to you. We ask that you be respectful of the other, and respond to communications in a timely manner. One person does not need to approve the other’s work, but if you want to work together to bounce ideas around, that is perfectly fine. It is also acceptable to work alone. Do not pressure your partner to collaborate if they prefer not to.
Q: What is the due date for the Bang Challenge Artist to have their work to the Author?
A: The due date for completed artwork is 30 April for the Reverse Bang. Many Artists will send it early to ensure their Author is happy with the work and to allow time for minor changes. This will eliminate issues of last-minute computer crashes or emergencies, giving the Author time to upload, review and get ready to post the artwork and catch any mistakes in the spelling of the story title or Author name, etc. If the Artist goes MIA*, Author may contact Mod and Mod will add Author and Artist names, and the title, to the original artwork. Again communication is the key. If you are going to be late, email your partner and let them know.
*added to clarify: 30 April is the due date for completed artwork to be sent to the author. Artist can be given a one-week grace period. If Artist has not submitted completed artwork, and has not communicated with their author and the mod within one week of the due date, they are considered MIA and a mod may add text to the artwork.
Q: What if my other team member drops out?
A: If an Artist is not communicating, please notify Mod [at jacieleigh(at)gmail(dot)com] if you have not heard from your artist by the Artwork due date. We have challenge mods who can add your title and the author and artist names to the original artwork. If the Author disappears with no communication, and/or misses the rough draft due date, and does not post a story, they will be banned from future challenges. If the Author fails to turn in a rough draft or fails to post a story, Artist may submit the artwork for the next year's challenge, provided it has not been used or posted elsewhere, or Artist may choose to give the artwork to another Author, provided it is not posted prior to June. Artist may also choose to use artwork themselves.
ARTWORK:
Q: What qualifies as art? (Part 1), Are there any limitations?
A: Most artists at least provide cover art or a banner, but you are not limited to that. Art may be photoshop, illustrations, videos, etc. You should produce at least one piece of art that can be posted with or linked to from the story. You may certainly produce as much art as you would like. If you want to portray a scene from each chapter, favorite scenes, chapter headings, icons, wallpapers, create multiple banners, etc., you are more than welcome to do so. You may submit all or allow the Author to choose (and they may choose ALL!). Your art should be based on the fiction it is representing.
Q: What qualifies as art? (Part 2)
A: Art definition:
The expression or application of human creative skill and imagination, typically in a visual form such as painting or sculpture, producing works to be appreciated primarily for their beauty or emotional power.
The art you submit must be created by you. You may not submit someone else's artwork. Untouched or cropped downloaded photos are not acceptable submissions for art. Simply adding text to an otherwise untouched or cropped downloaded photo is also not acceptable. You must artistically alter the photo beyond adding text and cropping. Moderators may disqualify art or may ask to see the originals that you worked from to determine whether your submission is acceptable or not. If you are asked to supply originals and fail to do so, you may be banned from future challenges. Creating a collage is acceptable.
Q: Can an artist submit something already created, or must this be a new piece?
A: Ideally, artwork would be something created specifically for this challenge, but as long as it is the Artist's original work and has not been previously posted to the internet*, it is acceptable.
*However, if artwork was created for this challenge in a previous year, and either was not claimed, or was claimed, but the author failed to post a story, Artist is allowed to submit the artwork the following year, provided it has not been used or posted elsewhere.
Q: Will the Artist submit only their original art for posting or can they update it after reading the story?
A: Artists may update the original artwork, and are welcome to add more artwork based on the story. Artist must provide at least one banner that includes the Author's name and the story title.
ART CLAIMS:
Q: How does the Reverse Bang claims work?
A: Artists will submit artwork, which will be posted anonymously on an Author Claim post, Authors can claim the artwork to base a story on. The art will be posted at least 24 hours before the claims go live. Once the claims are live, art will be claimed on a first come, first serve basis. Authors may submit a 1st and 2nd choice (or more). In the event that someone beats them on their first claim, they will be assigned their second choice (if unclaimed). If there is unclaimed art after a time (usually 1-2 days), Authors will be allowed to claim additional art to write for. Please do not claim more art than you have time to write stories for. If there is still unclaimed artwork after a couple of days, we may open the claims to Authors who did not sign up.
Q: As a Reverse Bang Artist, am I limited to one piece of art?
A: No. You may submit art for up to three stories. You may also develop more than one piece of art for the same story. Only one piece of art may be submitted for the claim per story prompt, although, you can make it a collage if you have created multiple pieces of art, or you may choose the piece you believe is most likely to be claimed.
Q: In the Reverse Bang, what if the number of Artists and Authors don't match?
A: If there is more art than Authors, Authors will be allowed to claim additional artwork. If there are more Authors than Artwork, we may open up claims for a second round. We may also allow Authors who did not sign-up make claims.
Q: I create art and write stories. Can I claim my own artwork for the Reverse Bang challenge?
A: Yes, as long as you are signed up as an author, or wait until the claims are opened to those who did not sign up, you may claim any unclaimed piece including your own. The artwork must be entered into the art claims and the claims are first-come, first-serve. We only allow one claim per artwork, so if someone else claims it first, it's theirs. My suggestion is, if you really want to use a piece you created, then keep it for yourself and submit something else to the Reverse Bang Challenge.
Q: An Author claimed artwork for the Reverse Bang, but did not post a story for the challenge. What happens?
A: The art was claimed for the Reverse Bang Challenge. By putting the art up for claim, Artist has only given permission for a story to be created around that art for the duration of the challenge. If the challenge ends and Author fails to post a story, they lose the right to use the art and they must request written permission from the Artist to use the art after the challenge. If Author fails to finish a story or post a story by the end of the challenge, Artist may deny Author the right to use the art and may submit the art for the next Reverse Bang challenge as long as it has not been used or posted elsewhere. If a story is posted on the scheduled challenge date, the Author retains the right to post the art with the story and may continue to do so. Art that has previously been claimed AND posted with a story, should not be submitted for another Reverse Bang challenge.
Q: What happens if art is submitted for the Reverse Bang claims, but is not claimed?
A: Usually, there are more Authors than Artists. I'd like to think chances are slim that art would not be claimed. If there is a case where art is not claimed, we may allow Authors to pick up another piece of art for another story, or may allow Authors who did not originally sign up for the challenge to claim art. If any art is not claimed during the challenge, it may be submitted the following year provided it is not posted or used elsewhere.
Q: How is the order of the submissions determined for the Reverse Bang Art Claim?
A: When I receive artwork for the challenge, it is numbered in the order in which I receive it. I then take that number list and use a Random Sequence Generator to determine the order.
UNCLAIMED ART:
Q: What happens if an Author doesn't claim my Reverse Bang artwork?
A: As much as we hope every piece will be claimed by an author, there are no guarantees that an author will be inspired enough to choose your artwork. In most cases, authors are interested, but may have chosen another piece already or they may not be comfortable with the parameters you've placed on the piece. If your artwork is not claimed by an Author, you may enter it again in next year's challenge (provided it is not used or posted elsewhere). If you choose not to resubmit the artwork for a future challenge, you may offer it to another Author after the final Reverse Bang story is posted for the current year's challenge (end of May), or may use it yourself.
DEADLINES, POSTING LATE and DROPPING OUT:
Q: What if I have to drop out?
A: Basically, communication is key. If you drop out before making a claim or offering a story/artwork for claims, there is no penalty. If you drop out after you have been matched up with someone, it depends on your timing and your communication. See below.
-Just to clarify, you MUST contact the mod if you are dropping out after you made a claim, or if your artwork was claimed. Without notification to the Mod, you are considered "MIA", which will result in you being banned from future challenges.
- If an Artist drops out before submitting artwork, there is no penalty.
- If an Artist goes MIA afterward, the Author will be allowed to post their story with the original artwork submitted. Challenge Mod reserves the right to add the story title, author and artist names to the original art. MIA artist may be banned from future challenges at mod's discretion.
- If the Author drops out before claiming artwork, there is no penalty.
- If an Author drops out of the Reverse Bang with notification (to both Mod AND Artist) after claiming artwork and prior to the rough draft due date, they may be banned from the Reverse Bang for one year (at Mod's discretion) if the artwork is not claimed by someone else.
- If Author notifies Mod And Artist early and the artwork is claimed by someone else, they will not be banned for the next year.
- If Author fails to notify both Mod and Artist prior to the rough draft due date, they may be banned for more than one year, or permanently, at Mod's discretion.
- If an Author fails to post a story, they will be banned from future Reverse Bang challenges.
- If an Author misses their assigned posting date, they may send a link to Mod for the Master List. Any Author who misses their assigned posting date, but posts their story late, can still participate the following year, but will have a one-day penalty on the next year's claims. Instead of claiming on Saturday, they will have to wait until Sunday to make a claim.
Q: An Author claimed artwork for the Reverse Bang, but did not post a story for the challenge. What happens?
A: The art was claimed for the Reverse Bang Challenge. By putting the art up for claim, Artist has only given permission for a story to be created around that art for the duration of the challenge. If the challenge ends and Author fails to post a story, they lose the right to use the art and they must request written permission from the Artist to use the art after the challenge. If Author fails to finish a story or post a story by the end of the challenge, Artist may deny Author the right to use the art and may submit the art for the next Reverse Bang challenge as long as it has not been used or posted elsewhere. If a story is posted by the end of the challenge, the Author retains the right to post the art with the story and may continue to do so. Art that has previously been claimed AND posted with a story, should not be submitted for another Reverse Bang challenge.
USE YOUR OWN WORK:
Submitting someone else's story or artwork as your own is not acceptable. It is plagiarism (the practice of taking someone else's work or ideas and passing them off as one's own). Fandom people are usually quick to spot plagiarism of artwork and stories. Many fanfic artists and authors work in multiple fandoms. Please be sure that anything you submit is your own work. If you submit work that someone else can prove is plagiarized, you will be banned from future challenges at the discretion of the mod.
MORE QUESTIONS?:
Q: I have a question and I do not see the answer above. Who can help?
A: Please feel free to post to this thread or you may email me at jacieleigh (at) gmail (dot) com. I run multiple challenges so please be sure to clarify which challenge you're asking about.
We reserve the right to further clarify rules as needed and may update the FAQs from time to time.