1. Vocabulary:
* Formal vs. Informal: Does the author use sophisticated language or more casual, everyday words?
* Figurative Language: Does the author employ metaphors, similes, personification, etc., to paint vivid images or convey deeper meaning?
* Jargon/Technical Terms: Does the author use specialized language specific to a particular field or profession?
2. Sentence Structure:
* Sentence Length: Does the author use short, choppy sentences, or long, flowing ones?
* Sentence Complexity: Does the author use simple sentences, complex sentences, or a combination?
* Punctuation: Does the author use a lot of commas, dashes, or other punctuation marks?
3. Tone and Mood:
* Humorous, Serious, Sarcastic, etc.: What is the overall feeling the author conveys?
* Emotional Impact: Does the author evoke feelings of sadness, joy, anger, fear, etc.?
4. Point of View:
* First-person, Second-person, Third-person: How does the author choose to tell the story? Does the narrator have a direct voice or an objective one?
5. Pacing:
* Fast-paced, Slow-paced, etc.: How does the author control the speed at which the story unfolds?
6. Organization and Structure:
* Chronological, Flashbacks, etc.: How does the author arrange the events of the story?
* Paragraph Structure: How does the author use paragraphs to break up the text and create different sections?
7. Dialogue:
* Naturalistic, Formal, etc.: How does the author capture the way people speak?
* Character Development: Does the dialogue reveal information about the characters' personalities?
Examples:
* Ernest Hemingway's style: Known for short, simple sentences, a minimalist approach to language, and a focus on action and dialogue.
* Jane Austen's style: Characterized by wit, irony, social commentary, and a focus on the nuances of human relationships.
* J.K. Rowling's style: Utilizes vivid descriptions, engaging dialogue, and a blend of humor and suspense.
Recognizing an author's style:
* Read widely: The more you read, the more familiar you become with different styles.
* Pay attention to the details: Notice the specific choices an author makes in terms of language, structure, etc.
* Compare and contrast: Compare an author's work to other authors you know to see how their styles differ.
Understanding an author's style can help you appreciate their work on a deeper level. It can also provide insight into the author's personality, beliefs, and the message they are trying to convey.