If you write science fiction grounded in real science, Analog Science Fiction and Fact might be your perfect match.
It’s one of the most prestigious and longest-running sci-fi magazines out there — a place where your short story could appear alongside legendary names like Isaac Asimov, Robert Heinlein, and George R.R. Martin.
For nearly a century, Analog has published work that explores the intersection of imagination and science, bringing together thought-provoking concepts, visionary futures, and human drama.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to get your own story published in Analog.
Let’s get started.
What is Analog?
Analog Science Fiction and Fact is a monthly magazine that publishes science fiction rooted in real-world ideas, along with fact-based articles on the frontiers of science and technology.
Their fiction explores how science might shape the future — through compelling, character-driven stories that feel imaginative yet believable.
Their nonfiction articles dive into real research and speculation with broad relevance and reader-friendly clarity.
Founded in 1930, Analog is one of the oldest and most influential sci-fi magazines in existence. It has been a defining force in the development of hard science fiction for nearly a century.
And it has the track record to prove it.
Genre-defining stories like:
- Dune by Frank Herbert
- Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card
- Dragonflight by Anne McCaffrey
all first appeared in Analog before becoming the classics we know today.
The magazine has earned dozens of Hugo and Nebula Awards, helped launch some of sci-fi’s most respected voices, and remains a benchmark for thoughtful, science-driven storytelling.
Whether you’re an emerging writer or an established pro, if your story brings scientific speculation to life with narrative depth and originality?
Analog is one of the best places to publish it.
What kind of content do they accept?
Analog is interested in speculative fiction with a strong scientific core — but they also look for depth in characters and story.
They accept:
- Short fiction (up to ~20,000 words)
- Serials (40,000–80,000 words)
- Poetry (up to 6 poems per submission)
- Fact-based nonfiction articles (~4,000 words)
They publish stories where the speculative element — whether it’s a scientific theory, invention, or discovery — is essential to the plot.
If you could remove the science and still have a functional story?
It’s probably not for Analog.
The science can be:
- Physical (e.g., physics, astronomy, biology)
- Psychological (e.g., cognition, behavior)
- Sociological (e.g., societal structures, cultures)
They also favor stories with:
- Strong, believable characters (human or not)
- Realistic, plausible settings
- Big ideas that are carefully developed and well-written
They welcome experimentation and originality —
as long as science remains central and well thought-out.
What are their writing guidelines?
Here’s what to keep in mind when submitting:
File format:
- Submit your work in .DOC, .DOCX, or .RTF
Formatting:
- Use standard manuscript format (William Shunn’s guide is the go-to)
Cover letter:
- Include your story’s title, word count, and any relevant background (e.g., professional experience related to the subject matter)
Poetry:
- You may submit up to six poems in one batch. Wait for a response before sending more.
Fact articles:
- These should be around 4,000 words. Write in an informal but accurate style. Avoid jargon unless necessary.
Important: Analog does not accept submissions written, edited, or assisted by AI tools. Violating this rule may result in a permanent ban.
Who can write for them?
Anyone.
Anywhere.
No experience required.
Analog is open to writers worldwide, regardless of background or credentials. They judge submissions on merit alone.
Whether you’re a debut writer or a published pro, you have a shot — if your story is strong, original, and rooted in speculative science.
How much do they pay?
Analog offers some of the best rates in the sci-fi magazine market:
| Type | Rate | Length | Estimated Pay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short fiction | 8–10 cents/word | Up to ~20,000 words | $1,600–$2,000 |
| Serials | 6 cents/word | 40,000–80,000 words | $2,400–$4,800 |
| Fact articles | 9 cents/word | ~4,000 words | ~$360 |
| Poetry | $1/line | Varies | Varies |
They purchase First English Language Serial Rights, which means they get the right to publish your story first in English.
After that, you retain the rights to your story, meaning you’re free to republish it elsewhere after its appearance in Analog.
They also obtain non-exclusive reprint rights (e.g., anthologies, promo material), but the details are laid out in your contract.
Note:
You do not get paid just for submitting.
You get paid if your piece is accepted and published.
Why should I write for them?
Publishing with Analog is a milestone.
It means your work has cleared one of the highest bars in speculative fiction.
It puts you in the company of giants, and signals that your writing combines imagination, scientific plausibility, and narrative strength.
More than that, Analog readers are highly engaged.
They’re scientists, engineers, academics, and enthusiasts who appreciate thoughtful fiction grounded in real-world principles.
This isn’t a casual scroll-through kind of audience.
These readers pay attention, and they remember what they read.
The magazine also offers strong editorial support, fair compensation, and ongoing exposure through potential reprints and awards.
If you’re serious about science fiction writing, Analog isn’t just a place to publish.
It’s a place to stand out.
How do I get started?
Before submitting, it helps to read a few recent issues of Analog to get a feel for their style, tone, and the kinds of stories they feature.
It’s a great way to understand what resonates with their editors and readers — and to spot gaps where your unique voice might fit in.
Submit online (default submission method)
Use their electronic submission system.
Fill out the form with your name, email, cover letter, and upload your manuscript.
Submit by mail (only if you can’t submit online):
- Double-spaced print, one-sided on white paper
- Standard font (avoid small or unusual styles)
- Indented paragraphs (no extra spacing)
- Include a cover letter with key info
- For serials: add a synopsis and the full manuscript
- Include a self-addressed stamped envelope (SASE) if you want a response
Mail it to:
Must Read Magazines
Trevor Quachri, Editor
25 SE 2nd Ave Ste 550 #698
Miami, FL 33131Response time: About 2–3 months.
Reminder: No simultaneous submissions allowed.
Before you submit:
Paid writing opportunities like these are limited — and they exist because editors are still willing to accept unsolicited submissions from writers around the world. To help keep these opportunities open, don’t submit AI-generated content or low-effort work clearly intended as spam. It wastes the editors’ time and takes away chances from real writers who care about the craft. Respect the opportunity. Respect the process. And respect the people reading your work.
Ready to submit your story?
Head over to their website to get started.
Final thoughts
Analog Science Fiction and Fact has been shaping the sci-fi genre for almost 100 years.
It continues to set the standard for bold, plausible, and idea-rich storytelling.
If your work explores how science could affect the future — and how people will live, adapt, and survive in that future — this is where it belongs.
Analog is where rigorous imagination meets literary respect. It’s a publication that respects its readers, honors its writers, and helps define what science fiction can be.
So if you’re sitting on a story that asks big questions and delivers thoughtful answers…
Submit it.
Be read.
Be respected.
Be part of the legacy.
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