How to Choose Your Writing Genre (3 Simple Steps for Beginners)

 

Choosing a writing genre can feel surprisingly overwhelming when you’re just starting out.

You have ideas… but no clear direction.
You love lots of genres… but feel unsure where the stories you want to write fit.
You might even worry about “getting it wrong” before you’ve properly begun.

And without that clarity, it’s easy to stay stuck.

The good news?

You don’t need to have everything figured out.
You just need a simple way to start.

Here are three gentle steps to help you find your writing genre — and finally move forward with confidence.

Step 1: Look at What You Love to Read

Your writing genre often begins with your reading habits.

Take a moment and think about the books you naturally reach for:

• Do you love emotional, character-driven stories?
• Are you drawn to historical settings?
• Do you enjoy fast-paced, high-stakes plots?

These patterns tell you so much more than you might think.

You don’t need to choose something “clever” or “different” — you need to choose something that genuinely excites you.

Because when you enjoy what you’re writing, you’re far more likely to keep going.

Step 2: Notice What Keeps Showing Up in Your Ideas

Even if you feel unsure, your ideas are already trying to tell you something.

Pay attention to:

• Recurring themes
• Similar character types
• Repeated story settings

Do you keep imagining love stories?
Do your ideas often involve mystery or tension?
Are you drawn to certain time periods?

These aren’t random.

They’re clues.

Instead of pushing them aside, follow them — they’re pointing you towards your natural genre.

Step 3: Think About the Ending That Feels Right to You

One of the simplest ways to identify your genre is to think about how you want your story to feel at the end.

Ask yourself:

• Do you want a satisfying, happy ending?
• Do you enjoy tension and twists right until the final page?
• Do you prefer emotional reflection or character growth?

Different genres create different emotional experiences.

And often, the kind of ending you’re drawn to reveals more about your genre than anything else.

If You’re Still Unsure…

If you’re still feeling uncertain after these steps, that’s completely normal.

Choosing a genre isn’t about getting it perfect — it’s about giving yourself a direction to begin.

And sometimes, a little extra guidance can make all the difference and I’ve created something that I promise will help.

My Find Your Genre Workbook walks you step-by-step through your ideas, preferences, and story direction — helping you connect the dots and feel confident about what you’re writing.

It’s designed to take you from “I have no idea what I’m doing”
to “I know exactly where I’m going.”

Find it here: https://thewriterprintableco.etsy.com/listing/4356088729

 Remember:

You don’t need permission to start writing.

You don’t need a perfect plan.

You just need a starting point.

Your genre doesn’t have to be something you force — it’s something you discover.

And once you do, everything begins to feel a little clearer.

Happy Writing,

Rachel x