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Step 1
Look at your life. Most gay people will tell you they've known their whole lives that they were homosexual, so chances are that you didn't just wake up one morning and think you might be gay. Look back on your life and childhood and consider any times that you felt attracted to the same sex, uncomfortable in situations with the opposite sex or related to another openly gay person.
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Step 2
Skip the stereotypes. There are lots of stereotypes associated with gay men and women, but whether they apply to you doesn't necessarily determine if you're gay. So don't pay attention to your affinity for show tunes, flannel shirts or hair dressing. These could be common interests you share with some gay people, but they are not deciding factors that determine whether or not you're gay.
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Step 3
Consider the laws of attraction. Being gay means being attracted to the same gender, so think about which sex you're sexually attracted to. Make a list of the traits and physical features that turn you on, and try to figure out if the list is predominantly male or female. Think about the last person for whom you felt a strong, passionate attraction. Chances are that your body and mind have been responding to certain genders even if you didn't realize it.
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Step 4
Go on a date. Test the waters by going on a date with someone who's gay. A date with someone of the same gender will let you see how you feel in a romantic same-sex situation. Be honest and make sure they know you're not entirely sure you're gay, then see where the evening goes.
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Step 5
Talk to other gay people. Anyone who's ever had to come out to their family and friends will sympathize with your struggle. If they're willing to discuss it with you, find out how they knew for sure that they were gay, how they dealt with it and how it changed their life. Hearing the experiences of other gay people can help you deal with your own internal struggle and determine if you're gay, too.
