Style can be defined as the way an author presents their ideas through word choice, sentence length and figurative language. It also includes the overall tone of a piece of writing and its intended effect on readers. While some authors have a distinct writing style that can be seen across all of their works, others may decide to write in different styles for each work.
A person’s style can be a reflection of their personality, beliefs and experiences. They can choose to dress in a certain fashion, use particular figurative language and even incorporate specific punctuation into their writing. It’s what makes them unique and sets them apart from the rest.
There are many quizzes online that claim to be able to determine your style in just a few questions, but style is more than what you wear or how you speak. It’s about identifying what elements of your look and writing voice represent you best and finding ways to create that consistently.
Often, it takes time and patience to find your personal style, but once you do, it’s a great asset that will help you feel confident and express who you are. Style is a holistic experience that involves your mind, body and closet, so make sure to consider all of these components when trying to define your style.
For instance, if you’re on the hunt for a new wardrobe, it’s important to buy pieces that will stand the test of time. Try not to get swept up in the latest trends, and instead choose items that you can see yourself wearing for years to come. It’s also a good idea to have a few staple items in your closet that you can mix and match with other items, so you always have something to wear no matter what the occasion.
If you’re trying to figure out your writing style, try reading and writing in various forms. Each form requires different stylistic decisions, so experimenting with them will help you develop your own personal style. For example, the words you choose in a love sonnet will be very different than the ones you’d use to write a short story about your childhood.
Another way to discover your writing style is by paying attention to the way that other authors write. While the topic of their writing may be similar, it’s the style in which they present it that separates Hemingway from Steinbeck and Keats from Wordsworth.
When trying to find your own writing style, it’s helpful to think about the times when you felt like your previous writing was perfect and how that made you feel. From there, try to identify the elements that were most significant in those moments.