What Is Fanfiction? A Guide for Readers, Writers, and Curious Fans
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If you’ve ever asked, “What is fanfiction?” or found yourself deep in a 100,000-word story about your favorite characters in a coffee shop AU—you’re not alone. As someone who reads and writes fanfiction regularly, let me take you on a journey into this amazing corner of the internet.
Whether you're new to fanfic or a longtime fan with dozens of bookmarks and unfinished WIPs (work-in-progress stories), this post will explain what fanfiction is, explore the different types of fanfiction, and highlight why so many of us love creating and reading it.
What Is Fanfiction?
Fanfiction (or fanfic) is a form of creative writing where fans use characters, settings, or plots from existing works—like books, movies, TV shows, anime, or games—and create their own stories.
Instead of being confined to the official story (also known as canon), fanfic writers explore "what if" scenarios, fill in missing moments, or reimagine entire worlds. The result? A wide, wildly creative collection of stories written by fans, for fans.
Why Do People Read and Write Fanfiction?
People read and write fanfiction because they love stories—and they want more. Fanfiction gives fans a chance to:
- Explore character dynamics not fully shown in the source material
- Create alternative endings or fix moments that didn’t sit right
- Write their favorite pairings (ships) that didn’t become canon
- Imagine themselves in the world through self-insert fanfiction
- Practice writing in a low-pressure, supportive environment
And let's be honest—some of the most emotional, well-written stories I’ve read were on fanfic platforms like Archive of Our Own (AO3), FanFiction.net, or Wattpad.
Types of Fanfiction You’ll Find Online
There are many types of fanfiction, and chances are, if you can dream it, someone has written it. Below are some of the most popular types—and yes, I’ve read (or written) most of them:
1. Canon-Compliant Fanfiction
These stories stick closely to the original timeline but may explore untold scenes, character backstories, or emotional fallout. It’s like bonus content from the author—written by fans.
2. Fix-It Fics
When canon hurts too much, we fix it. These fanfics change specific events (like character deaths or breakups) to give the characters the closure or happiness fans feel they deserve.
3. Alternate Universe (AU)
In an AU fanfiction, characters are placed in entirely new settings. Want to read about superheroes in high school? Or a vampire and a werewolf falling in love in modern-day Paris? AU fics have you covered. Popular AU types include:
- Coffee shop AU
- College AU
- Royalty AU
- Modern AU
4. Shipping Fics
Shipping fanfiction focuses on romantic pairings—canon couples, crack ships, slow burns, love triangles—anything goes. Whether it's enemies-to-lovers or friends-to-lovers, shippers fuel some of the most passionate fanfic communities online.
5. Self-Insert Fanfiction
Self-inserts are fanfics where the author or reader creates a character based on themselves. You become part of the story, interacting with your favorite characters. These stories can be lighthearted, emotional, or romantic—and they’re especially popular for exploring wish-fulfillment scenarios.
6. Reader-Insert Fanfiction
Similar to self-inserts, reader-insert fanfics are written in second person (“You walk into the room…”) so the reader becomes the protagonist. These are common in fandoms with strong character crushes—like anime, K-pop, or Marvel.
7. Crossovers
Crossover fanfiction blends two or more fandoms. Ever wondered what would happen if characters from Harry Potter ended up in the Star Wars universe? That’s a crossover, and it's always a wild ride.
Where Can You Read Fanfiction?
Some of the most popular platforms for reading and writing fanfiction include:
Archive of Our Own (AO3) – Tag-rich, clean interface, beloved by serious fanfic readers and writers
FanFiction.net – One of the oldest platforms, with a wide range of fandoms
Wattpad – Great for original stories, but also home to plenty of fanfics, especially for young adult and romance fans
Tumblr – Short-form fics, headcanons, and fan theories live here
Quotev – Known for quizzes, self-inserts, and reader-insert fics
Final Thoughts: Why Fanfiction Deserves More Love
Fanfiction is storytelling at its most passionate. It’s a space where creativity thrives, where fans reclaim narratives, and where new writers often find their voice. Whether it’s a 1,000-word fluff fic or a multi-chapter emotional epic—every story reflects the love we have for the characters and worlds we care about.
So yes, I write fanfiction. I read it. I love it. And if you’ve never given it a try, maybe it’s time to dive in. Who knows—you might find your next favorite story written by a fellow fan like me.
