What Is Writing Style?

This is something that concerns most new writers, especially those who are new to writing, and aspiring to success. Is a writing style something you work to develop, or something you have already because it's part of you? How do you even know what your style is, or should be? And what about following editorial style - where does that fit in?

I used to get concerned about these questions, especially when I read things like 'Keep to the style of the publication', or 'How to develop your writing style'. I wondered how I could even figure out my own style, let alone anyone else's.

Much of the confusion is because there are two main styles to be concerned about, and they mean different things, though they are related. These are the editorial style, and the writer's style.

What Is Writing Style?

EDITORIAL STYLE

Let's look at editorial style first of all, most notably of magazines. This is what makes the work of a particular publication unique; and the editors of each publication are understandably fussy to see both writers and advertisers adhere to their chosen style.

The editors want to reach a particular reading audience, and their editorial style is what is intended to appeal to that audience. This may be seen in things like level of reading ability, layout, length, sophistication and specialty of language used. For example, a publication intended toward doctors is going to use a different set of words to those intended toward a non-medical audience, even if written about the same topics.

PERSONAL STYLE: The second style to look at is your own personal writing style.

I've read a lot about writing style, and the best way I can explain it is: your writing style is a reflection of your personality, shown by the words you choose, and the way in which you use them.

At first, like a toddler learning how to stand and walk, you will be unsure of your style. However, also like a toddler, I suggest you don't worry about finding your style; just get on with the business of getting mobile.

I'm sure you've noticed how un-self-conscious a baby is when just starting out. While attention-lovers will perform better for doting parents or admiring onlookers, babies are usually more interested in figuring out how to get places easier or faster. Walking is what humans are made to do, so it's a natural process. Even in that first age, of course, walking styles can be observed; but nobody expects that child to still be toddling uncertainly in another year or two.

As a young writer, work on developing your writing skills, and practice, practice, practice. As you do so, your style will develop. When you write for publications, you will gradually learn how to discern an editorial style, and how to write with your style for their style.

Your style is you. It doesn't actually matter so much if you can discern your own style or not, I believe; so just be true to yourself, and your style will be evident to your readers.

What Is Writing Style?
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Click here to visit http://www.wordsandscenes.co.nz by Janice Gillgren
The blog on this site offers inspiration, encouragement and useful tips to writers at all levels.