There are many reasons why an author may choose to publish under a pen name. Some of the most common of those include: protection of privacy, genre branding and easier enunciation. The following tips may serve to make the process of choosing a pen name easier for both fiction and non-fiction writers.
Tips for Choosing a Pen Name
An author could consider altering their legal name with either a different first or last name. Or a writer could consider using their middle name as a first name. Some female authors choose to publish under their maiden name as a way of creating a publishing alias. These are three of the easiest ways to choose a pen name without changing one’s identity entirely.
If an entirely different name is desired, writers should remember that simplicity is better. A pen name that is not believable, such as “Superb Writer”, may cause credibility issues to circulate within the writer’s intended audience.
Striving to put forward a professional image at all times, especially when choosing a pen name is crucial to an author’s success. Writers may want to save their more creative name expressions for the forums and chat boards instead.
It may be helpful to utilize a search engine to look up the pen name one is considering using. This will immediately show if the name might conflict with other existing web presences online, particularly that of other writers. One of the worst mistakes a writer could make is not researching their prospective pen name. Taking the time to do this will prevent publisher and reader confusion later on in one’s writing career.
It’s important to note that book publishers reserve the right to change the author’s name that ends up on a book. If a writer has their heart set on a particular pen name, they should make sure the publisher is willing to accommodate their request.
Becoming Comfortable with a Pen Name
Authors may want to try introducing themselves with the pen name in front of a mirror or practice signing their autograph using the pen name. Ideally the pen name should feel comfortable to speak and write, since it is an extension of the writers’ persona. Getting a trusted family member or friend’s input can also be a valuable tool in determining if the prospective pen name is the right one for the writer.
Writers should not rush the decision surrounding which pen name to use. Once work starts being published under a chosen pen name, it can be difficult to maintain the author’s target audience if the author keeps swapping pen names, particularly if this takes places within the same genre.
Lorraine Sauer - Lorraine C. Sauer works as a full-time freelance writer.
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