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The Author Archetype Quiz

Is hybrid memoir for you?

Download The Quiz The Memoir Readiness Quiz

Take the Author Archetype Quiz

For each question, choose the answer that feels most natural to you. Don’t overthink it – go with your gut response about how you work, not how you think you should work.

By answering a few insightful questions, you’ll gain clarity on what your next step is.

How It Works:

Answer honestly—there are no right or wrong responses, just insights waiting to be revealed.
Click on your results after completing the quiz to uncover what your more is.
Book a call with me – if you want to discuss your next steps.

This quiz is here to help you tune in to what is the right next step and the right kind of book for you to write.

There are no right or wrong answers, only insights and you don’t have to agree.

Discover Your Author Archetype Quiz

Discover Your Author Archetype

Answer these 15 questions to discover how you naturally approach planning, writing, and completing your nonfiction book.

Choose the answer that feels most natural to you — don't overthink it!

1. When you're planning a journey somewhere new, you:

Research the route thoroughly, check traffic patterns, and have backup routes planned Use your sat nav with clear step-by-step directions, and maybe print out the route as backup Ask friends who've been there for recommendations and tips Head in the general direction — you'll figure it out as you go, and might discover something interesting along the way

2. When you get something new that needs assembling, you:

Read through all the instructions first to understand the logic of how it works Follow the instructions step-by-step, checking off each stage Ask someone to help you or look for a video tutorial Jump in and start assembling — you'll figure out the pattern (those leftover screws are probably spares, right?)

3. When learning something new, you:

Research it thoroughly, understand the theory behind it, then apply it Find a proven method with clear steps and practice systematically Talk it through with someone and connect it to things you already care about Experiment with it immediately and discover what works through trial

4. Your ideal writing environment is:

Quiet, organised, distraction-free, with all your research materials at hand Neat and structured with visible checklists and timelines Comfortable and social — you don't mind noise, and you might prefer working in a café or with music Visually inspiring and flexible — you like changing locations when the mood strikes

5. When starting a new book project, you naturally:

Gather all your research and facts first, then create a comprehensive outline Develop a detailed methodology with steps and timelines Start with the stories and emotions you want to convey Jump in with the big vision and discover the structure as you go

6. When you get stuck while writing, you:

Return to your research and logical framework to find clarity Check your outline and timeline to see what step you're missing Talk it through with someone or journal about why this matters Step away to visualise the concept or try a completely different approach

7. Your writing naturally emphasises:

Facts, analysis, research, and logical arguments Clear instructions, practical steps, and how-to guidance Personal stories, emotional connection, and values Big ideas, possibilities, and conceptual frameworks

8. When it comes to planning your book, you prefer to:

Create a detailed outline with all key points before starting Develop chapter summaries, flowcharts, and step-by-step breakdowns Brainstorm themes and stories, then organise around emotional arcs Use mind maps or visual tools to see the big picture

9. Your relationship with deadlines and schedules:

You set realistic goals based on data (like testing your writing speed) and stick to them You create detailed timetables and methodically check off milestones You work in bursts when inspired, though you may need accountability partners You resist rigid schedules but work toward outcome-based deadlines with flexibility

10. The type of nonfiction you're most drawn to is:

Research-based or analytical books that explain complex topics How-to guides, instruction manuals, or systems-based books Memoir, narrative nonfiction, or values-driven personal development Visionary big-idea books or creative explorations of possibilities

11. Your biggest challenge when writing is:

Adding emotional warmth and personal connection to your content Not getting bogged down in perfectionism and endless details Staying focused on one project and following through to completion Including necessary details and maintaining structure throughout

12. You learn new writing techniques best by:

Reading about them and analysing how they work theoretically Following step-by-step instructions and practising systematically Discussing them with others and connecting to your personal values Experimenting and finding your own unique way to apply them

13. When you're working on your book, you typically:

Work alone for extended periods without distraction Work methodically through your plan, session by session Need to check in with others and share progress regularly Work in varied bursts and switch between different sections

14. Your natural time management style is:

Testing how long tasks take, then scheduling focused blocks accordingly Creating detailed schedules with specific tasks assigned to specific times Planning around when you feel most energised and inspired Keeping the end goal in sight but staying flexible with how you get there

15. When editing your work, you focus most on:

Logical flow, factual accuracy, and strength of arguments Clarity of instructions, completeness, and procedural accuracy Emotional impact, authenticity, and connection with readers Overall vision, creative expression, and innovative presentation

Next Steps...

A

The Architect

The analytical thinker who needs logic, research, and solid frameworks



The Engineer

The methodical builder who thrives on systems, steps, and proven processes



The Storyteller

The heart-centred connector who leads with emotion and values



The Explorer

The visionary innovator who sees possibilities and thinks in pictures

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the quiz take?

The quiz takes approximately 3-5 minutes to complete. It includes 15 thoughtful questions designed to identify your archetype.

What happens after taking the quiz?

You’ll click on your guide type – read all about you. There’s a PDF for you to read in your own time. You decide what is next.

Is this quiz only for writers of non-fiction?

Yes. The quiz doesn’t cover fiction. It’s designed to give you insights about what is the right next step for you.

What if I don't resonate with my result?

Focus on what resonates with you, and go with the flow.

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