How to Choose a Pseudonym

There are many reasons you may choose to use a pseudonym. For instance, your name may already be attached to a famous person. Your given name may also be hard to pronounce, not flattering or hard to spell and remember. Also, if you're reluctant to be famous, choosing a pseudonym is a great way to put yourself out in public while maintaining some of your anonymity. Read on to learn how to choose a pseudonym.

Instructions

1. Start with your middle name or your first name if you go by your middle name. If you don't like this option, you may also try using variations of your name. For instance, if your name is Robert, you may try Rob or Bob or even Bobert.

2. Consider the names of your influences or people you admire. Imitation is the most sincere form of flattery, so if there is author or several authors who inspire you, consider using parts of their names. Just don't use the exact same name because that name is obviously taken.

3. Use your initials. Many prominent authors, such as C.S. Lewis, J.K. Rowling and J.R.R. Tolkien, have used their initials instead of their full name. This is a good option if your name is hard to remember or not very flattering. It may also be good if you do not want your sex taken into consideration on an initial impression of your work, as was the case with J.K. Rowling.

4. Look for names that have a special meaning. If there is a specific meaning you want to convey with your pseudonym, try to find a name that has that meaning or a significant origin. A site like Baby Names is a good place to find the meanings of names.

5. Try an online name generator. If you want a pseudonym but just can't come up with anything, there are several online name generators that can get your gears turning. A simple search for name generators should give you several to work with.

6. Compose a list of several possible pseudonyms and see which ones stand out. Ask family and friends to see which ones they like the most and which ones they think suit you best.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure the name is not already taken or has bad connotations. For instance, Joseph Stalin would be a poor choice for a pen name.

• Avoid using names that are hard to pronounce or overly long.

• Don't make the last letter of the first name of your pseudonym and the first letter of the last name the same. This can make it tricky to say.