Creative writing is often associated with works of fiction. Although this still holds, from poetry and novels, to memoirs and literary journalism, creative writing has definitely spanned both fiction and non-fiction works.

If you want to be a creative fiction writer, here is a list of creative writing styles for you to choose from:

Poetry is the oldest existing style for creative writing. You can explore traditional poetry writing, which involves following a certain rhythm and rhyming pattern, or you can go free style for a modern approach. There is no word count for poetry – it can be as short as a haiku, with only 17 syllables, or as long as Homer’s Odyssey, a lyrical narrative.

The short story is a narrative form of creative writing. It typically falls between 1,000 and 7,500 words and consists of a single plot, with a few characters involved. There’s a beginning, middle, and ending, but it doesn’t involve too much time to compose. Readers consider it as a “light read” since it can be finished in one sitting.

A novel is a much longer version of a short story, typically having 60,000 to 120,000 words. Novels involve more characters compared to a short story, with each character usually having their own storyline. Novels can also spawn sequels or follow-ups, since authors usually get more ideas to expand the novel itself.

Plays and screenplays are the actor’s version of either a novel or a short story. These consist of dialogues, character descriptions, as well as stage (for plays) or camera direction (for screenplays). Many plays and screenplays are adaptations of novels or short stories.

Flash fiction is a short story that usually falls under 1,000 words. It’s a very challenging genre because you have to create a thorough, meaningful story with minimal literary real estate, i.e. words.

For fiction writers, it’s best to draw inspiration from the world around you. Works of fiction are based on realities we see every day, and as a fiction writer you have to think outside the box and look for something to focus on.

If fiction writing is not your cup of tea, yet you still feel the need for creativity in your work, then you can explore the following options:

Memoirs and autobiographies are the most popular form of creative non-fiction. Autobiographies focus on a linear and very chronological story of someone’s life. Memoirs, on the other hand, are random illustrations of memories, without the need to follow a specific timeline.

Literary journalism is similar to story-telling, with the exception of adding facts. It often revolves around a certain event, location, or anything that the author has experienced, with facts about what the author experienced.

Factual stories are books or narratives that offer an introspective approach about a real-life event. It’s similar to literary journalism, though it delves deeper into how the author sees the event.