1. Characteristics of Realistic Fiction
Characters resemble ordinary people. Characters may change as a result of the problem they must resolve.
Characters and plot are believable.
Real voice: tone (i.e. sarcasm), dialogue, natural and contemporary
Reader usually feels that the story really happened.
Characters, plot, setting, theme, events, and problems accurately reflect real life and engage the readers in understanding universal human problems

2. Characteristics of Historical Fiction
The setting is accurate in both place and time
Historical events affect the plot and are interwoven with imaginary plot events
Characters may be actual historic figures.
The personalities and behavior of the characters are based on research, but the conversations and thoughts attributed to these figures are the author’s creation.

3. Characteristics of Science Fiction
It is often set in the future, but it resembles the present world enough to be conceivable.
Often assumes knowledge of science or uses scientific terminology.
Examines possible technological developments: interplanetary travel, talking computers and robots, artificial or superior intelligence, and powerful weaponry are common themes.
It often draws attention to social problems or human imperfections.