Writer Quiz: Your Next Focus
Get clear on your next steps
The New Year is coming and it’s time to dream about your writing journey for next year. To guide you forward, here’s a little quiz.
Record your answers—you can choose as many as you like per question—and we’ll reveal what you should focus on in 2026!
Writer Quiz
When asked about your writing practice…
A. I’m not sure what to say because I don’t have a regular writing schedule
B. I can share about my writing practice, but feel frustrated I don’t have a book to promote
C. I suggest they sign up for my newsletter
D. I feel shy talking about my writing with other people
One goal you didn’t achieve this year…
A. My word count goals
B. Querying or pursuing traditional publishing
C. Sales goals
D. Everything
What did you read this year?
A. I read books about writing craft
B. I read books about publishing
C. I read books by authors I want to emulate
D. I didn’t read as much as I hoped
What new connections did you make?
A. I joined or continued with a writing group
B. I met or worked with an editor
C. I met or worked with a bookstore owner
D. My networking fell flat
How you feel about your latest writing project…
A. It’s not coming together as quickly as I hoped
B. I’m editing and can see the light at the end of the tunnel
C. I see how it connects broadly to my writing career
D. I sure wouldn’t want to show it to anyone
One important thing you learned from Conquer Books this year…
A. How to finish a book
B. The difference between indie and traditional publishing
C. How to think about marketing
D. How to strengthen my creativity
If your answers are mostly A’s
You are still in the beginning stages of your writing practice. Focus on developing a regular practice, committing to logging significant word count in 2026, and learning about your voice as a writer. Your main goal is to finish a project and that comes through regular, dedicated writing.
If your answers are mostly B’s
You have been writing for some time and feel good about the progress you’re making. You have a finished project and should focus on researching publishing and getting your words in front of others. Educate yourself on the publishing avenues available to you.
If your answers are mostly C’s
You’ve published or are near to publishing a book, but need to focus on the business side of things. Write a business plan and make concrete systems around your newsletter, book sales, and marketing. Keep up your writing practice as you grow into a savvy author.
If your answers are mostly D’s
Mindset is a focus area for you. Build your confidence up and get used to sharing about your writing with others. Start journaling and embracing the creative process. Write affirmations and build a community of supportive creative people around you.