What does "style" in writing refer to?

In writing, "style" refers to every author's unique voice characterized by language and tone. This encompasses the choices an author makes regarding vocabulary, sentence structure, figurative language, and the overall mood conveyed in the piece. Style is what distinguishes one author's work from another's, reflecting their individual personality, cultural background, and experiences.

For instance, an author might choose a formal tone and complex sentences to create an academic or serious atmosphere, while another might employ casual language and short, punchy sentences to create a conversational or humorous effect. This distinctiveness is essential for engaging the reader and can significantly affect how a narrative is perceived.

The other options address different aspects of writing. The structure and format pertain more to organization rather than to the flair or uniqueness of an author's voice. The objective viewpoint relates to the perspective from which a story is told, which is separate from the stylistic choices made by the author. Finally, adherence to industry-standard writing conventions refers to the rules and practices of writing that ensure clarity and professionalism, but do not define the distinctive characteristics of an author's style.