One way is by the writing quality. High fanfiction usually has good grammar, proper punctuation, and a smooth flow of language. Low fanfiction might have more errors in these areas. For example, if a story has numerous spelling mistakes and choppy sentences, it may be considered lower quality.
The plot also matters. High fanfiction typically has a well - thought - out plot that makes sense and keeps the reader engaged. It might have twists and turns that are logical and add to the overall story. Low fanfiction may have a very simple or even a convoluted plot that doesn't hold the reader's attention, like a story that just meanders without a clear direction.
The depth of the characters can be a factor. In high fanfiction, characters are often multi - dimensional, with complex emotions and motives that are well - explored. In low fanfiction, they might be more one - dimensional or act out of character. For instance, if a character in the original work is known for being brave but is constantly portrayed as cowardly in the fanfiction without good reason, it could be a sign of lower - quality work.
You can distinguish them by the level of sexual content. If it's very explicit, it's likely a lemon; if it's more of a hint of sexual tension, it's a lime.
One way is to look at the writing style. Literary works usually have a more refined and complex writing style. Fiction can have a wide range of styles, from simple and straightforward to highly elaborate. For instance, a literary novel might use a lot of symbolism and allusions, while a simple fictional story for kids might be very direct.
A story is often shorter and more straightforward. It usually focuses on a single plot or event and can be told simply. A novel, on the other hand, is more complex and longer. It has multiple sub - plots, more in - depth character development, and often explores various themes.
Fiction typically has characters and plots that are made up. In nonfiction, the information is based on research or real - life experiences. You can also check if there are footnotes or references in the text. If there are, it's more likely to be nonfiction. Fiction might have a more creative or fantastical writing style compared to the more straightforward style of nonfiction.
The language used is a big clue. In a mystery fiction, there might be a lot of suspense - building language, like 'a shadowy figure lurked in the corner'. In contrast, in a self - help - type of fiction, there will be more positive and motivational language. Additionally, the chapter titles can be revealing. In a detective story, they might be named after the places where the clues are found or the suspects. The marketing and categorization of the book also help. If it's shelved in the 'thriller' section at the bookstore, it's likely to be that type of fiction.
The main difference is that fiction is created from the author's imagination, while nonfiction presents real information and facts. For example, a science textbook is nonfiction, but a fantasy novel is fiction.
Look at the writing style. Literary fiction often has a more refined and complex writing style. Contemporary fiction is usually more straightforward. Also, consider the themes. If it's exploring deep, timeless human emotions and experiences, it's likely literary. If it's about modern - day things like social media or new political movements, it's probably contemporary.
Look at the content. If it has made - up characters and events that couldn't happen in real life, it's probably fiction. If it's about real people, places, or events, it's nonfiction.
Well, you can start by thinking about the expectations. If you pick up a book in a particular genre like science fiction, you expect certain things like spaceships or alien races. Genre fiction meets those genre - related expectations. Literary fiction, on the other hand, doesn't really have such set expectations. It's more about the author's exploration of the human condition. Moreover, the characters in literary fiction tend to be more complex and multi - dimensional compared to some of the more archetypal characters in genre fiction. And the themes in literary fiction are often deeper and more philosophical, while genre fiction may focus on themes related to the genre, like good vs. evil in a fantasy story.
One way is to look at the source. If it's based on real - life events, it's more likely a story. Fiction often comes from the author's creative mind with no real - world basis. For example, a war story might be based on historical battles, while a science - fiction story about alien invasions is clearly fiction.