The fanfiction community is so varied it’s often difficult for newcomers (or seasoned participants) to know where they fit in or how to find what they’re looking for.

Today, we’re going to look at 10 frequently asked questions in regard to fanfiction.

1. Q: What is fanfiction?

   A: In this previous post, I’ve given the following definition of fanfiction: content created using previously published characters or settings.

2. Q: Where can I find fanfiction?

   A: The three main websites for fanfiction are: Archive of Our Own (AO3), Fanfiction.net (FFN), and Wattpad (WP), however there are numerous fan-made sites that host fandom-specific stories, and there are still a decent number of fanfiction writers who post content and links on Tumblr.

3. Q: Is fanfiction legal?

   A: Yes. As long as you’re not selling it. There are exceptions though as certain authors have requested their work not be used in fanfiction. In cases where the source material is in public domain (Sherlock Holmes, most classic fairytales, Louisa May Alcott’s work, etc.), selling fanfiction for said work is perfectly legal.
   For a list of public domain works, check out Goodreads.

4. Q: Where can I post my fanfiction?

   A: In addition to the list of sites in Question 2, you can post your fanfiction anywhere you like, so long as you’re not charging people for it and the site you’re posting to allows fanfiction content. Some writers post fanfiction stories on personal blogs or other sites.

5. Q: Who reads fanfiction?

   A: People all over the world of all ages from every background, ethnicity, and religion (or non-religion) imaginable read fanfiction.

6. Q: Who writes fanfiction?

   A: Anyone who wants to. People of all ages, languages, countries, and faiths write fanfiction.

7. Q: How is fanfiction content rated?

   A: Different sites use different rating systems, but most will have a list of ratings and what those ratings mean. For example, Fanfiction.net uses the following scale: K (G), K+ (PG), T (PG-13), M (TV-17/R).

8. Q: Is fanfiction appropriate for kids?

   A: Like all media, some fanfiction is definitely kid-friendly and some is definitely not. I’d encourage parents to be just as involved in their kids’ fanfiction reading choices as they are in their other reading selections.

9. Q: What software is good for writing fanfiction?

   A: There are endless options when it comes to writing fanfiction. I prefer Microsoft Word. Some use Pages, or LibreOffice. Others like note apps on their mobile devices. And others still use pen and paper. Whatever you’re comfortable using is a valid choice.

10. Q: Can fanfiction be more than a hobby?

    A: Yes. There are a number of well-known authors who started out in fanfiction (Neil Gaiman is one of the most notable). It’s a low-stakes environment where you can try things you never otherwise would. It’s also a place where writers can learn genre versatility, how to engage an audience, or learn to interact with other writers. I’ve learned so much from my time thus far in fanfiction, and there’s still so much more to learn.