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What is a pen name?
Any pseudonym chosen by an author, or an author’s publicist, in order to conceal the author’s true identity. Some instances where a writer might chose to use a pen name instead of their own include, having a hard to spell or pronounce real name, having the same legal name as a famous person or fellow writer, or when writing highly controversial content.
Copyright and Pen Names
Contrary to popular belief, an article can be copyrighted in the pen name of the author. However, you’re simply copyrighting the work itself, not the pen name. There’s no actual copyright protection for a person’s name – real or pen. When you apply for your copyright under your pen name, make sure you read the conditions carefully because the application can contain just the pen name, or the pen name and the author’s real name. If you feel inclined, you can visit the United States Copyright Office online and read more about copyright law.
How Could A Pen Name Help Me?
If you write a significant amount of web content, and it’s aim is to boost SERPs, you might want to consider a pen name. These articles are typically key word dense, and not exactly known for their high standards. Because they are geared toward quick and high search engine result placement, you can rest assured these articles will make it on the first page – if not the number one slot of a search engine. If this isn’t the kind of writing you want to be the most recognized for, the use of a pen name could come in handy in this case.
How Could A Pen Name Harm Me?
Because you’ve created an alias for yourself, some people may not realize that this isn’t you full and legal name. In such cases, you may receive payment in your pen name! You may also receive mailings and offers in your pen name. A good rule of thumb when using a pen name is to always include both your legal and pen names on the contract you make with any publicist, and clearly identify each as such.
Need a Pen Name?
Something fun you can try is the Pen Name Generator on Poem of Quotes. Just type in your real name, and select male or female, and this generator will automatically choose a pen name for you. Mine was Lady Schwartz, and I think I will opt to stay with my real name instead!
