Names

Choosing an author name, often referred to as a pen name, nom de plume, or pseudonym, can be an exciting and creative process. Here are some steps you can follow to help you decide:

1. Consider Your Genre and Audience:

  • Genre Fit: Some genres may benefit from specific types of names. For example, a name for a romance author might differ from one for a science fiction writer
  • Audience Expectations: Think about what your target audience might find appealing or memorable

2. Personal Meaning:

  • Family Names: Consider using a name that has personal significance, such as a family name or a name with cultural or historical meaning
  • Alter Ego: Your pen name could reflect a different persona or aspect of your personality that resonates with your writing style

3. Pronunciation and Memorability:

  • Easy to Pronounce: A name that’s easy to say and remember can help readers find and recommend your books
  • Unique but Simple: Aim for something unique enough to stand out but not so complex that it’s easily forgotten

4. Avoiding Common Names:

  • Search for Duplicates: Search online or on social media platforms to ensure your chosen name isn’t already widely used, especially by another author. Amazon.com is a good place to start
  • Domain Availability: Check if the domain name is available if you plan on creating an author website

5. Experiment with Combinations:

  • First Name/Last Name: Combine different first and last names. You might mix your real name with something fictional or select entirely different names
  • Initials: Using initials can give your name a more formal or mysterious quality (e.g., J.K. Rowling).
  • Alliteration: Names with repeating sounds can be catchy (e.g., Cassandra Clare)

6. Legal Considerations:

  • Trademarks: Ensure the name isn’t trademarked, especially if you plan on using it for marketing purposes
  • Privacy: Consider whether you want to keep your real identity private, especially if you write in multiple genres
  • Copying: Using a similar name to a popular author could land you in hot water. Some author estates have protections on names

7. Test it Out:

  • Say it Out Loud: Does it sound good when spoken? Is it pleasant to hear? Maybe when you say it, you’ll feel differently about it
  • Feedback: Ask friends or fellow writers for their opinions on the name

8. Be Open to Change:

  • If your first choice doesn’t resonate as much as you hoped, it’s okay to rethink and try again
  • Remember that you will be sticking with this name your whole writing career, if successful, so it’s worth considering carefully before deciding
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