Do authors have to use their real names?

As a general rule, most authors should publish under their legal, given name. Same name – An author may use a pen name when their real name is either confused with another author or notable individual. Avoid overexposure – Sometimes a pen name is exercised to avoid overuse.

Should I use my real name when publishing a book?

There is no use hiding your real name from self-publisher. After all, your legal name will be required in order to get paid royalties and other fees. They will want to be aware of the identity and background of the authors they publish since their own company name will be at stake, too.

Is a pen name used by an author instead of their real name?

A pseudonym is a fictitious name taken by a writer in place of their real name. The term “pseudonym” is a Greek word that literally means “false name.”

Why dont authors use their real names?

There are many reasons why an author chooses to use a pseudonym and not their actual name: They want to try something new. When a famous author known for writing a specific type of novel wants to tackle a different genre, they may choose to adopt an assumed name.

How do you write an author pen name?

1. Step 1: Identify the Right Age For Your Pseudonym.
2. Step 2: Choose Options That Fit Your Literary Genre.
3. Step 3: Check Your Pen Name’s URL and Social Media Handles.
4. Step 4: Choose a Name That’s Easy to Spell, Pronounce, and Remember.
5. Step 5: Make Sure Your Pen Name Isn’t Similar or Identical to Another Author’s.

Should you use a pen name?

To use or not use a pen name or pseudonym is a personal choice. There’s not really a right or wrong answer on this—unless you do share a name with a well-known author and/or celebrity. Just remember: If you do use one, be ready to take on that new persona (even if it’s very similar to your actual identity).

What is a pen name for authors?

A pen name is listed as the author’s name on a published book, and readers often do not know the real name or identity of the author. “A pen name is an assumed name used by a writer instead of their real name.”

What is the difference between a pen name and a pseudonym?

Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. A pen name (nom de plume or literary double) is a pseudonym (or, in some cases, a variant form of a real name) adopted by an author and printed on the title page or by-line of their works in place of their real name.

Should you use a pen name for your first book?

Some Authors want to use a pen name for their first book. Maybe you’ve considered it. Maybe you’ve even used one of those online generators to come up with a larger-than-life alter ego. I get it. There’s something intriguing about picking a flashy new name to go with your flashy new book.

Do authors still use pseudonyms today?

The use of pseudonyms by writers and artists has been a popular practice throughout the centuries, and using a pen name is a well-known practice even today. While pen names may be less common than they were in the past, they are still a good option to consider for modern authors! What is a pseudonym?