There is no exception to the rule that freelance writers must thoroughly and effectively study the style and tone of a particular magazine if they want to be successful contributors. Editors generally suggest that for a monthly publication, writers should carefully examine at least three previous issues. If the magazine comes out weekly, it’s best to get hold of at least four weeks’ worth of copies.

Obtaining magazines may burn a large hole in the pocket, especially for a beginning freelance writer. But there are many practical ways to build a wealth of resources for little to almost no amount at all. When looking for magazines, always bring along a pen and notebook where you can jot down the managing editor’s name and editorial address, as well as guidelines and information for contributors. As you go about conducting a market study, you can scout for magazines in the following places:

Libraries

Set aside at least one weekend every month to visit your public library. Take at least 15 minutes to skim through the selection of magazines in their racks. If you can gain access to a university or a community college near your home, you might discover that they have subscriptions to literary and academic journals.

Waiting rooms

Doctors’ and dentists’ clinics almost never get by with at least a few magazine issues to keep their patients busy while waiting for their appointment. This is especially helpful if you’re planning to write for magazines that promote good health and lifestyle awareness. Being knowledgeable about the latest developments in the field of medicine or physical fitness, coupled with a coherent style of presenting facts and information, will bring you a long way in your writing career.

Other people’s homes

Do you have a mechanical engineer for an uncle? He may be keeping tab on “Popular Mechanics.” Got a niece who’s off to college in a year? She may be an avid reader of “College Bound.” How about a friend who’s conversant with politics? Even a few politically-inclined publications accept short story submissions that raise social awareness. Take note of your friends’ and relatives’ tastes in reading materials. I was able to find a competitive paying market out of one of my aunt’s magazine subscriptions.

Religious bookstores

This is a must for freelancers who would like to write for paying Christian markets that aim to communicate Biblical truths in contemporary language. Since Christian magazines are sold for less because they are distributed in bulk for churches and other religious institutions, they, however, do not compromise the quality of their articles. In the Philippines there are many religious bookstores that offer magazines of excellent content.

Second-hand bookstores

If you already have a clear idea about the types of print publication for which you’d like to contribute, head straight for the magazine racks, and patiently dig through their motley assortment. Second-hand bookstores offer a diverse collection of titles, from fishing to photography, travel, fashion, and parenting. And with the extremely low, give-away prices, you’ll most likely frequent these bookstores throughout your writing career.

Online

Most print magazines now have an online edition, and the good news is there are many other e-zines to which you can showcase your writing talent. But bear in mind that online editors want a different style of writing than print editors. While both the print and Internet market require lucidity from their articles, web articles frequently employ headings, bullets, sub-topics, and lists.