Now, I am certainly no expert; however, I have been reading fanfiction for at least the past 15 years, traversing through multiple fandoms from all types of genres. I have read some really light, fluffy fanfictions, and I have read some really dark fanfictions that deal with sensitive and mature themes. I am not going to wrong anyone in this, but here is a simple guide that I hope new and old users take note of prior to posting their stories.
Authors:
1. No one is going to misalign you or your writing, but please add the appropriate tags, warnings, and author's note at the beginning of the story to make sure your readers understand what will happen in the story. Examples include:
—Adding an author's note that explains your viewpoint, whether you do/do not like a character, and a brief description of what you believe the character is like in your own words:
e.g., "These two may seem a little out of character. However, I've always envisioned Shiva to be extremely smart. He just didn't get the higher education, that's all. As for Raavi, I've envisioned her to be a little all over the place in terms of personality. She's the "life" Shiva needs." — From "When Masalas Meet Flowers"
When you explain how your characters are set up, it gives the reader a reference point on what to expect when reading the story, and to prepare themselves in the event that the characters are out-of-character. Even mentioning something as small as "I do not like X character" allows your reader to make the informed decision of whether they should continuing reading your story or whether they should skip it.
—Adding the appropriate warnings, tags and descriptors prior to the start of the story:
e.g., "Tragedy" in the event of any character death, "Violence/Abuse" this can apply to physical or emotional violence, "Alternate Universe" when there is limited reference to the things happening in the show, or if the story follows an alternate timeline including the "What ifs?"
Every reader on this forum has their own personal tastes. I am someone who prefers light stories with comedy, and if I read something that is tragic/violent, my mood is spoiled. Respect that. Please. Even if it takes you 2 extra minutes, write down as many warnings as you can. Preparing a reader for something is the best gift you can give them.
2. Add a summary of your story before your story begins.
Fanfiction.Net, Wattpad, Archive of Our Own all allow you to write summaries so your readers understand what they are getting themselves into. Please consider writing a 1-2 sentence summary just so your readers can understand whether they can vibe with the story, or whether they should consider picking up another story. Summaries are the greatest hooks the authors can give their readers, especially when your story is long or multi-chaptered.
3. Review the IF Rules
Become aware of the IF Rules and Regulations prior to posting a story regardless of whether you believe your story will be taken down or not. Reviewing the rules is good practice, and sometimes, it can shape your story so you avoid themes/topics that are sensitive. Also understand that this forum includes members who are as young as 15-16 and who are as old as 55-60. Please be mindful of not only the users, but also internet members who browse the forum on their own time.
Forum Rules: Click Here
Fanfiction Rules: Click Here
Final note for the authors:
As readers, we will always appreciate the time and effort you have taken out of your busy day to write a story, but know and understand that not everyone will read your story and like it. And that is perfectly okay. One of the first tenants of being a fanfiction writer is writing because YOU are interested in writing and growing as a writer. Not writing because you think you will get a certain number of views, clicks, or comments.
If you follow the guidelines above, and still get hate (where there is name-calling, abusive words or remarks) messages, feel free to report it!
Arjun
Cricket
Indian Mythology
