Every writer has a voice. It’s the special way you tell a story, the words you choose, and the way your sentences flow. Have you ever read something and thought, “Wow, I know exactly who wrote this!”? That’s because the author’s voice was clear and strong.
Finding your unique writing style can feel tricky at first, but it’s also one of the most exciting parts of becoming a writer. In this post, we’ll explore different writing styles, share tips on discovering your voice, and help you feel confident in the way you write.
1. What is a Writing Style?
Your writing style is like your fingerprint—it’s unique to you. It’s made up of things like:
- The words you use (simple or fancy?)
- The length of your sentences (short and punchy or long and flowing?)
- Your tone (funny, serious, mysterious?)
- The perspective you write from (first person, third person?)
Some writers are playful and full of humour, while others are dramatic and love building tension. Neither is better—they’re just different.
Example:
- Playful style: “Charlie had a plan—a terrible, brilliant, slightly ridiculous plan.”
- Dramatic style: “Charlie’s plan was set in motion. The stakes were high, and failure was not an option.”
Both sentences tell us Charlie has a plan, but they feel different. That’s the magic of writing style.
2. Why is Writing Style Important?
Your writing style is what makes your stories yours. It’s how readers get to know you as a writer. A strong style helps readers connect with your writing, keeps your story consistent, and makes your work memorable. Imagine if a funny adventure story suddenly switched to a gloomy, formal style halfway through—it would feel confusing, right?
When your style is consistent, readers will trust you, enjoy your stories, and want to read more.
3. Common Writing Styles
While every writer’s voice is unique, there are a few common writing styles that you might recognise:
Descriptive Writing:
This style focuses on creating vivid images using lots of sensory details.
Example: The golden sunlight poured through the leaves, casting dappled shadows on the forest floor.
Narrative Writing:
This style focuses on telling a story with a clear plot, characters, and events.
Example: Lila had always been afraid of the attic, but today, she climbed the creaky stairs with determination.
Persuasive Writing:
This style aims to convince the reader of something. It’s often used in speeches or opinion pieces.
Example: Everyone deserves a chance to be heard, and it’s time we started listening.
Humorous Writing:
This style uses jokes, playful language, and wit to entertain readers.
Example: Dave’s cooking skills were legendary—mostly because everyone who tasted his food became an instant legend for surviving it.
Reflective Writing:
This style explores thoughts, feelings, and personal experiences.
Example: Sometimes, the quiet moments teach us the loudest lessons.
You might find that you naturally lean towards one style, or you might like mixing them depending on the story you’re telling.
4. How to Find Your Writing Voice
Finding your writing style isn’t something you can force—it’s something you discover over time. Here are some tips to help you along the way:
Write a Lot: The more you write, the more you’ll notice patterns in your style. Do you use a lot of humour? Do you love describing settings?
Read Widely: Read books in different styles and notice how each author’s voice feels. Which styles do you enjoy the most? Which ones feel natural to you?
Experiment with Styles: Try writing a spooky mystery one day, a funny short story the next, and a heartfelt diary entry another day. See which one feels the most you.
Pay Attention to Feedback: If someone tells you, “Your writing always feels so lively!” or “You’re really good at building suspense,” pay attention to those comments. They’re clues about your style.
Be Honest: Write the way you want to write, not the way you think you should write. Don’t try to copy someone else’s style—let your own voice shine through.
5. Match Your Style to Your Story
While it’s important to have your own voice, your style might shift slightly depending on the story you’re telling.
If you’re writing a scary ghost story, your style might become darker and more suspenseful. If you’re writing a light-hearted adventure, your style might be funnier and more playful.
Example:
- Scary story: The shadows stretched across the floor, swallowing every inch of light.
- Funny story: The shadows were definitely following him. And honestly? They were being a little rude about it.
Your style should fit the mood and tone of your story while still sounding like you.
6. Avoid Trying Too Hard
Sometimes, writers try to force a style that doesn’t feel natural. Maybe they use overly complicated words or try too hard to sound poetic. Readers can feel when something doesn’t sound authentic.
It’s okay if your writing isn’t perfect. Focus on being clear, honest, and yourself. Your style will grow stronger the more you write.
7. Exercises to Explore Your Writing Style
Here are some fun exercises to help you discover your style:
- Exercise 1: Write about the same event in three different styles—funny, suspenseful, and descriptive.
- Exercise 2: Describe a busy train station using as many sensory details as possible.
- Exercise 3: Write a short story in the style of your favourite author, then rewrite it in your own style.
These exercises will help you notice what feels natural to you and what doesn’t.
8. Be Proud of Your Voice
Your voice is yours, and that’s something special. Whether your style is playful, serious, poetic, or straightforward, it’s a reflection of you.
Don’t compare your style to other writers—celebrate what makes your voice unique. Over time, your style will grow and evolve, but the core of it will always be you.
Find Your Style, Tell Your Story
Your writing style is your superpower. It’s what makes your stories stand out and keeps readers coming back for more.
So the next time you sit down to write, let your voice come through. Don’t worry about sounding like anyone else—just focus on sounding like you.
Keep experimenting, keep writing, and most importantly—have fun with it! Your voice is already there, waiting to be heard. Now go out there and let it shine!
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